A hardware wallet in a drawer tells heirs nothing unless someone documented its purpose, acquisition date, and who holds the recovery materials. Yet writing seed phrases on adhesive labels defeats the device’s purpose.
What we recommend instead
Use an inventory code—not the seed—that links to your written inventory binder. Example: HW-03 · purchased 2021 · recovery envelope with spouse. The code appears on a small label on the device sleeve, not on the wallet body.
Where labels live
Keep labels on outer packaging or a cloth sleeve. Avoid permanent marks on the device. If the manufacturer serial is visible, record it in the inventory; do not add new permanent identifiers.
Coordinating with heirs
Tell one designated person that codes exist and where the inventory binder is stored. Full disclosure can wait until your readiness review or attorney meeting— but the code system should not be a surprise.
Annual check
During your yearly inventory update, verify labels remain legible and codes still match the binder. Replace faded labels; do not duplicate content across multiple unofficial lists.