One Claim Tool — Two Verification Methods
Every eligible user follows the same overall claim process:
- Hold Bitcoin at the snapshot.
- Verify eligibility.
- Prove ownership of the Bitcoin wallet.
- Receive ECX.
The difference lies in how ownership is verified.
To support the most common Bitcoin wallets, the Official ECX Claim Tool provides two verification modes:
Private Key Mode
Recovery Phrase Mode
Why Are There Two Modes?
Bitcoin wallets do not all store credentials in the same way.
Some wallets allow users to work directly with individual private keys.
Others use a single Recovery Phrase (also called a Seed Phrase or Mnemonic) that can restore the entire wallet.
Rather than requiring one method for every wallet, the Claim Tool supports both approaches so users can choose the option that matches their wallet.
Private Key Mode
Private Key Mode is intended for wallets where individual private keys can be used to prove ownership of specific Bitcoin addresses.
This option is commonly associated with software wallets and advanced users who manage individual addresses.
- Typical workflow
- Open the Claim Tool.
- Select Private Key Mode.
- Enter the required private key.
- Specify the ECX receiving address.
- Submit the claim.
The tool verifies ownership and continues the claim process.
Recovery Phrase Mode
Recovery Phrase Mode is designed for wallets that use a mnemonic phrase to recover wallet access.
Many modern wallets use this standard.
- Typical workflow
- Open the Claim Tool.
- Select Recovery Phrase Mode.
- Enter the recovery phrase.
- Specify the ECX receiving address.
- Submit the claim.
The tool verifies wallet ownership and continues the claim process.
Which Mode Should You Choose?
The correct option depends on the wallet you controlled during the Bitcoin snapshot.
| Wallet | Recommended Mode |
|---|---|
| Ledger | Recovery Phrase Mode |
| Trezor | Recovery Phrase Mode |
| Electrum | Depends on wallet configuration |
| Bitcoin Core | Private Key Mode |
| Sparrow Wallet | Depends on wallet configuration |
If you are unsure, read the wallet-specific guide before using the Claim Tool.
Start with the Claim Checker
Before opening the Claim Tool, we recommend verifying that your Bitcoin address is eligible.
The ECX Claim Checker requires only a public Bitcoin address and does not request any sensitive wallet information.
Once eligibility has been confirmed, you can continue with the appropriate claim method.
Security First
The Claim Tool is designed for the claim stage, not for eligibility checks.
Keep these principles in mind:
- Use only the official Claim eCash website.
- Make sure you understand which mode your wallet requires.
- Follow the instructions for your wallet.
- Never use unofficial claim tools.
For additional recommendations, visit the Security Center.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are there two claim modes?
Different Bitcoin wallets manage wallet credentials differently. The Claim Tool supports both Private Key and Recovery Phrase verification so users can choose the method that matches their wallet.
How do I know which mode to use?
The correct method depends on the wallet you used to store your Bitcoin at the time of the snapshot. Consult the relevant wallet guide if you are unsure.
Can I switch between modes?
Yes. If your wallet supports a different ownership verification method, you can select the appropriate mode before submitting your claim.
Do I need to use the Claim Checker first?
It is recommended. The Claim Checker lets you verify eligibility using only your public Bitcoin address before beginning the claim process.
Can I claim ECX from multiple Bitcoin addresses?
Yes. If you controlled multiple eligible Bitcoin addresses at the snapshot, follow the official instructions for each address or wallet as applicable.
Where can I find wallet-specific instructions?
Dedicated guides are available for: Ledger Trezor Electrum Bitcoin Core Sparrow Wallet
Ready to Claim ECX?
Verify your eligibility first, then choose the claim method that matches your Bitcoin wallet.