Key agent, not custodian.
The Bitcoin Adviser may act as one signer within a client-controlled multisig structure. We can support authorised signing workflows, continuity events, and recovery workflows — but we cannot move client Bitcoin alone.
Key agency is the professional signing role inside collaborative security: continuity support without custody, unilateral control, or surrendering your Bitcoin.
What key agency means
Key agency is a professional signing role inside a collaborative security model. It means The Bitcoin Adviser may hold or operate one key under a documented policy, where agreed in writing with the client.
The client remains the originator of spending intent. TBA’s role is to support the authorised signing process, not to decide when Bitcoin moves.
- We may act as one key agent in a 2-of-3 multisig structure.
- We cannot move funds unilaterally.
- We do not pool client assets.
- We do not hold Bitcoin on our balance sheet.
- We do not trade, lend, or rehypothecate client Bitcoin.
- Co-signing is governed by authorisation and verification.
Key agency is the professional signing role The Bitcoin Adviser may perform within a client-controlled multisig structure. It supports continuity without becoming custody.
Why key agency exists
Solo self-custody can become fragile when one person, one device, or one memory becomes the critical dependency. Key agency gives the client a professional continuity layer without surrendering control to a custodian.
Key agent support matters most when the original holder is unavailable, uncertain, under stress, or coordinating with other people.
Device loss
Structured recovery paths instead of panic when hardware fails.
Signer unavailable
Continuity when a signer cannot respond on short notice.
Inheritance event
Operational readiness aligned with documents and heirs.
Suspicious request
Policy-aligned verification before any co-sign.
Family or trustee uncertainty
Clear roles so fiduciaries are not improvising.
Platform migration
Support through vault or signer transitions.
What key agency is not
Key agency is not custody. It is not portfolio management. It is not discretionary control. It is not a guarantee against loss.
| Key agency is | Key agency is not |
|---|---|
| One role in a multisig policy | Custody of client Bitcoin |
| Authorisation-based co-signing | Unilateral control |
| Continuity support | Investment management |
| Process and documentation | A guarantee of recovery |
| Client-controlled structure | Pooled or omnibus custody |
Formal service boundaries: Scope, risks & important information.
How it works in practice
- Client initiates request.
- Request is checked against documented policy.
- Identity and authorisation are verified where required, including DocuSign Identity Verification and adviser confirmation for applicable co-signing workflows.
- TBA co-signs only if the request is authorised and consistent with the policy.
- Records and documentation are maintained as appropriate.
How it connects to the rest of TBA
- Collaborative Security — the custody model and multisig structure.
- Key Agent — this page; TBA’s role inside that structure.
- Estate Plan Protocol — continuity documentation layer.
- Education & Advisory — stakeholder competence.
- Scope & Risks — formal boundaries and disclaimers.
For inheritance-specific framing of legal authority versus operational control, see Estate Planning & Inheritance.
Questions about key agency
Are you a custodian?
No. Key agency is a signing role inside your collaborative structure. We do not take custody of client Bitcoin, pool assets, or control funds unilaterally.
Can TBA move my Bitcoin without me?
No. We cannot move client Bitcoin alone. Co-signing follows documented policy, authorisation, and verification.
What happens if I lose my key?
With a typical 2-of-3 arrangement, one lost device or key does not necessarily freeze funds. We help clients follow recovery paths aligned with their vault design. Nothing guarantees recovery in every scenario.
What if I want to leave TBA?
You can change structure or providers when your situation changes. We aim for orderly transitions so continuity stays intact.
Is key agency the same as custody?
No. Custody implies control or holding on behalf of others in ways key agency explicitly avoids. Key agency is authorisation-based co-signing within a client-controlled multisig policy.
Does key agency mean you provide financial advice?
No. We do not provide investment, tax, or legal advice. Our role is operational and educational within agreed boundaries.
How does key agency support inheritance?
It pairs multisig continuity with documentation and heir readiness—alongside an Estate Plan Protocol where you use one. See Estate Planning & Inheritance.
Want to understand whether key agent support fits your setup?
Book a custody review to discuss collaborative security, signing roles, continuity planning, and whether The Bitcoin Adviser should act as a key agent in your structure.