Why Are There Two Claim Modes?
Not every Bitcoin wallet works the same way.
Some wallets are based on a Recovery Phrase (seed phrase) that can recreate the entire wallet.
Others allow access to individual Bitcoin addresses using their Private Keys.
To support both approaches, the Official ECX Claim Tool provides two verification modes.
Both are equally valid. The only difference is which type of wallet information you have available.
Recovery Phrase Mode
Recovery Phrase Mode is intended for wallets that are backed up using a mnemonic phrase.
A Recovery Phrase typically consists of 12 or 24 words generated when the wallet was first created.
Examples include many hardware and software wallets.
Use this mode if:
- your wallet was created with a 12-word or 24-word Recovery Phrase;
- you normally restore your wallet using that phrase;
- your wallet documentation refers to a "seed phrase," "recovery phrase," or "mnemonic."
Examples of wallets that commonly use a Recovery Phrase include:
- Ledger
- Trezor
- Electrum
- Sparrow Wallet
- Private Key Mode
Private Key Mode is designed for users who have access to the private key of a specific Bitcoin address.
Rather than restoring an entire wallet, this method verifies ownership of an individual eligible address.
Use this mode if:
you already have the Private Key for the address that held Bitcoin at the snapshot;
your wallet exports individual private keys;
you're working with a legacy wallet or a single-address setup.
Which Mode Should I Choose?
The choice depends entirely on your wallet.
| If you have... | Use... |
|---|---|
| 12-word Recovery Phrase | Recovery Phrase Mode |
| 24-word Recovery Phrase | Recovery Phrase Mode |
| Private Key for an eligible Bitcoin address | Private Key Mode |
| Not sure | Review your wallet guide before proceeding |
Remember: both modes ultimately achieve the same goal—verifying ownership of your eligible Bitcoin wallet.
Which Wallets Typically Use Each Method?
Recovery Phrase Mode
Most users of the following wallets will normally choose this option:
- Ledger
- Trezor
- Electrum
- Sparrow Wallet
- Private Key Mode
This option is commonly used when:
- a wallet exports individual Private Keys;
- only one Bitcoin address needs to be verified;
- you're working with a legacy wallet or a manually managed address.
If you're unsure which method is appropriate, consult the Wallet Guides before beginning your claim.
You Don't Need Either Method to Check Eligibility
One of the most common misunderstandings is that users must immediately enter a Recovery Phrase or Private Key.
That's not true.
The ECX Claim Checker allows you to verify your eligibility using only your public Bitcoin address.
Only after confirming that your address has an ECX allocation should you proceed to the Official Claim Tool.
Security Reminder
Whether you use Recovery Phrase Mode or Private Key Mode:
- always verify that you're on the official Claim eCash website;
- never share your wallet credentials with anyone;
- never enter a Recovery Phrase or Private Key into the ECX Claim Checker;
- take time to review the instructions before starting.
Security is more important than speed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which method is better?
Neither method is "better." The correct choice depends on how your wallet stores your Bitcoin.
Can both methods claim the same ECX?
Yes. Both Recovery Phrase Mode and Private Key Mode are simply different ways of verifying ownership of an eligible wallet.
Can I check my eligibility without a Recovery Phrase?
Yes. The ECX Claim Checker only requires your public Bitcoin address.
My wallet has a 24-word phrase. Which mode should I use?
Recovery Phrase Mode.
My wallet exported a Private Key. Which mode should I use?
Private Key Mode. I'm not sure which method my wallet supports. Review the wallet-specific guide before beginning the claim process.
Choose the Method That Matches Your Wallet
The Official ECX Claim Tool supports both Recovery Phrase Mode and Private Key Mode. If you're unsure which one to use, start by checking your eligibility, then follow the wallet guide that matches your setup.