Forgot Your Password? Here’s How to Restore Your Coinbase Wallet on a New Device

Forgetting your Coinbase Wallet password can be frustrating, but don’t worry—your crypto isn't gone. This guide will help you get your wallet back on a new device, even if you can't remember your old password.

Understanding Coinbase Wallet Security

Before we jump into the recovery, here are a few things to know about how Coinbase Wallet keeps your crypto safe:

• You have full control over your funds.
• There's a difference between your password and your recovery phrase.
• Coinbase can't reset your password because of their decentralized setup.
• Your 12-word recovery phrase is key to access your wallet.

What You'll Need

To restore your wallet, make sure you have:

1. Your 12-word recovery phrase (you set this up originally)
2. A new device (like a smartphone or tablet)
3. About 15-20 minutes of free time
4. A quiet and private spot to work

Step-by-Step Recovery

Step 1: Get the Coinbase Wallet App

1. Download the app:
   • iOS: Find it in the App Store
   • Android: Find it in Google Play
2. Make sure it's from Coinbase, Inc.
3. Finish the installation

Step 2: Start the Recovery

1. Open the app.
2. Tap I already have a wallet.
3. Choose Restore with recovery phrase.
4. Decide if you have a 12-word or 24-word phrase.

Step 3: Enter Your Recovery Phrase

This part is super important:

1. Type each word by hand—don’t copy and paste.
2. Make sure the words are in the right order (Word 1, Word 2…Word 12).
3. Double-check the spelling with the [BIP39 word list].
4. Finish entering the phrase and move on.

Step 4: Set New Security Features

1. Create a new password/PIN that's different from the one you forgot.
2. Turn on biometric security (like Face ID or fingerprints).
3. Adjust your transaction security settings.
4. Look over all security options.

Step 5: Confirm Recovery

1. Check your wallet balance (this might take a few minutes to fully show).
2. Look at your transaction history.
3. Confirm any connected apps and services.
4. Try sending a small test transaction.

Common Recovery Issues and Solutions

Security Tips After Recovery

1. Make several secure backups of your recovery phrase.
2. Think about getting a hardware wallet if you hold a lot of crypto.
3. Enable all security features available to you.
4. Regularly check your backups.
5. Learn about common scams.

FAQs About Wallet Recovery

Can Coinbase reset my wallet password?
Nope! You're in charge with your recovery phrase.

What if I can't find my recovery phrase?
Without it, your wallet and funds are unrecoverable.

Will my NFTs come back too?
Yes, all assets linked to your wallet will be accessible once you restore it.

Is it safe to use the same wallet on different devices?
You can, but it's better to avoid it for security reasons.

How can I prevent this in the future?

• Keep multiple backups of your recovery phrase.
• Use a password manager for app passwords (not for recovery phrases).
• Choose simpler wallets if managing your crypto is too tough.

What's the difference between my password and recovery phrase?

• Password: Secures app access on one device.
• Recovery phrase: Your key to all your crypto.

Can I change my recovery phrase after restoring?
Not directly. You'd need to make a new wallet and move your funds.

Advanced Recovery Options

For those comfortable with tech:

1. Use private keys instead of recovery phrases.
2. Connect hardware wallets during recovery.
3. Set up multi-signature security.
4. Look into smart contracts for recovery options.

Emotional Side of Recovery

It can be tough losing access to your funds:

• It's okay to feel stressed; crypto is valuable.
• Many people have faced this, so you’re not alone.
• You’ll learn from this and become more secure.
• Consider joining groups for support from others who’ve been in your shoes.

When to Get Professional Help

Reach out for help if:

• You think your recovery phrase is compromised.
• You see unusual transactions.
• You're dealing with a lot of crypto.
• You want help planning for inheritance.

Warning: Never share your recovery phrase with anyone claiming to be tech support.

Final Recovery Checklist

✔ Wallet restored on a new device
✔ Verified all funds and transactions
✔ Set up new security measures
✔ Created several recovery phrase backups
✔ Secured the old device

Select a rep