Collaborative Custody — How It Works & Best Providers
Collaborative custody uses multisignature technology where keys are split between you and a service provider. Typically in a 2-of-3 setup: you hold 2 keys, the provider holds 1. You can always move funds independently, but the provider can assist with recovery if you lose a key. This bridges the gap between full self-custody and third-party custody.
Trade-offs
Pros & Cons
+Pros
- ✓You maintain control (hold majority of keys)
- ✓Professional recovery assistance
- ✓Inheritance planning support
- ✓No single entity can move your funds
−Cons
- ✗Provider still has some key access
- ✗Higher cost than pure self-custody
- ✗Still relies on one provider for the backup key
- ✗Fewer options than pure custodial solutions
Ideal Users
Best For
Rankings
Best Collaborative Custody Providers
Ranked by weighted Custody Score across 8 criteria.
Unchained provides collaborative multisig custody where clients hold 2 of 3 keys and Unchained holds 1. This means clients maintain full control — they can always move funds without Unchained's permission — while having a professional backup key holder for recovery and inheritance.
Read full review →Casa provides collaborative self-custody using multisig, designed for individuals and families. Founded by Bitcoin security expert Jameson Lopp. Offers 2-of-3 and 3-of-5 key setups with a focus on usability, inheritance planning, and key recovery.
Read full review →Nunchuk is a collaborative Bitcoin multisig wallet supporting multiple key holders. Features inheritance planning, Taproot support, and flexible multisig configurations. Designed for families and teams managing Bitcoin together.
Read full review →Compare Collaborative Custody Providers Side-by-Side
Use our free comparison tool to evaluate collaborative custody providers across security, fees, insurance, and more.
Compare Collaborative Custody providers side-by-side →Learn More
Related Guides
Multi-Institution Custody Explained
Why distributing assets across multiple custodians eliminates single points of failure.
Read more
How to Choose a Custodian
A framework for evaluating custody providers across security, insurance, fees, and compliance.
Read more
What is Bitcoin Custody?
Everything you need to know about securing your Bitcoin.
Read more