Definition
Two-factor authentication (2FA) estate issues are the access barriers executors face when managing accounts that require the deceased person's phone, biometric data, or physical security key.
When accounts need both a password and a second verification factor tied to the deceased's possession or characteristics, executors often cannot access them even with legal authority, potentially locking assets away permanently.
What Are Two-Factor Authentication Estate Issues?
Two-factor authentication requires two forms of verification—typically a password plus a code sent to your phone, an authenticator app code, biometric data like Face ID, or a physical security key. While 2FA protects accounts during your lifetime, it creates barriers for executors after death because these authentication factors are tied to your physical possession or biometric characteristics.
Under the Administration of Estates Act 1925, executors have legal authority to access estate assets, including digital accounts. However, UK law provides no mechanism for executors to bypass 2FA. An executor's right to access electronic devices "still remains very much a grey area" according to UK legal guidance. Even with a Grant of Probate, service providers may refuse to bypass 2FA protections.
The problem occurs when executors have passwords but face 2FA screens requiring codes from locked phones or inaccessible authenticator apps. Sarah had her father's Marcus Bank password but the bank required a code sent to his locked phone. After obtaining Grant of Probate (8 weeks), Marcus took another 3 weeks to grant access. Meanwhile, Sarah paid £4,200 in funeral expenses from her own funds.
Consequences vary by asset type. Banks may eventually grant access after 3-6 months of documentation. Cryptocurrency platforms cannot bypass 2FA even with legal documents—the blockchain architecture prevents it. James found his brother held £28,000 in Bitcoin on Coinbase. Without Google Authenticator access, Coinbase confirmed they cannot disable 2FA under any circumstances. Without backup codes, the £28,000 is permanently inaccessible.
Common Questions
"How can executors access accounts with two-factor authentication after someone dies?" Executors can access 2FA-protected accounts only if the deceased saved backup codes, used legacy contact features (Apple Legacy Contact or Google Inactive Account Manager), or stored details in a password manager. Otherwise, executors must contact providers with a death certificate and grant of probate, though access isn't guaranteed.
"Should I disable two-factor authentication to make things easier for my executor?" Never disable 2FA—it protects your accounts from unauthorized access. Instead, generate and store backup codes for each 2FA account, designate legacy contacts, and document authentication methods securely. Security and estate planning coexist with proper preparation.
"What happens to my cryptocurrency if I die with two-factor authentication enabled?" Cryptocurrency protected by 2FA becomes permanently inaccessible without backup codes or recovery phrases. Unlike banks, crypto platforms cannot override 2FA even with court orders. Your holdings are lost forever unless you've stored backup codes securely for your executor.
Common Misconceptions
Myth: If my executor has my password, they can access all my accounts.
Reality: With 2FA enabled, passwords alone are useless. Executors also need the second authentication factor—codes from your phone, fingerprint, or security key. Without backup codes or legacy contact designation, accounts remain locked even with the correct password.
Myth: My executor can show my death certificate and Grant of Probate to get account access.
Reality: Many service providers cannot or will not bypass 2FA with legal documentation. Cryptocurrency platforms have no technical ability to override authentication. Even traditional banks may refuse for regulatory reasons. Some work with executors after 3-6 months, but many will not.
Related Terms
- Digital Assets: The broader category of online accounts that 2FA estate issues prevent executors from accessing.
- Digital Executor: A specialist executor with technical knowledge to navigate 2FA barriers.
- Cryptocurrency: The asset type most severely affected, as platforms cannot bypass authentication.
- Online Accounts: Accounts commonly protected by 2FA, including banking and investment platforms.
- Estate Administration: The process that 2FA barriers can delay by 3-12 months.
- Access Credentials: Information including passwords and 2FA credentials like backup codes.
Related Articles
- First Time Homeowner? Here's Why You Need a Will
- Inheritance Tax Planning for £500k-£2M Estates
- Investment Accounts in Your Will (ISAs, Pensions, Stocks)
- What is Probate? A Step-by-Step Guide for Executors: Addresses 2FA barriers in the asset collection stage.
- How to Use Your Will to Plan for Inheritance Tax: Discusses accessing 2FA-protected accounts for HMRC reporting.
Need Help with Your Will?
Understanding 2FA estate issues is crucial for protecting digital assets. Proper will planning should include documentation of backup codes and authentication methods.
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Legal Disclaimer:
This article provides general information only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. WUHLD is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice. Laws and guidance change and their application depends on your circumstances. For advice about your situation, consult a qualified solicitor or regulated professional. Unless stated otherwise, information relates to England and Wales.