Overview
If you die or become incapacitated, your Arch account doesn't automatically pass to anyone. Without a plan, your estate has to keep the loan current - or it goes into default and collateral can be liquidated.
Beneficiary planning lets you name a successor now. If the time comes, we work with them to transfer the account and keep your loans running on the same terms.
One-time $1,000 fee - covers your whole account, not a single loan
Every loan covered - current loans, future loans, refinances and rollovers
No trust, entity or business required - the usual fix is a trust: $10-20k in legal fees, then re-papering the loan into it. Beneficiary planning does the job for the account itself.
How It Works
Go to Settings → Beneficiary Planning in your Arch dashboard
Pay the one-time $1,000 fee (card) via the payment link on the page. Questions first? Book a call from the same page.
Sign the addendum - within one business day we email you a Beneficiary Designation and Successor Assumption Addendum via HelloSign. Enter your successor's full legal name, review and sign.
You're covered - once signed, your account is marked as enabled and every loan shows a "Protected by beneficiary planning" badge.
Your account isn't covered until we have both payment and the signed addendum. If you've paid but haven't signed, we'll send a reminder after 7 days.
What It Does - and Doesn't
Does | Doesn't |
Names a successor who can request to take over your account and loans | Change your loan terms, LTV thresholds or margin-call rules |
Covers all current and future loans on the account | Replace a will or trust |
Keeps loans running on existing terms after a successful assumption | Pause margin calls or liquidation at any point |
| Skip verification - your successor must still prove their authority and pass KYC/AML |
If Something Happens
Your successor (or your estate's representative) notifies us at [email protected]
They provide the supporting documentation we request
Your successor completes identity verification (KYC/AML)
Once requirements are met, Arch works in good faith with your successor to transfer the account. Your loans continue on their existing terms.
Collateral rights are unaffected throughout - the loan still needs to stay within its LTV terms.
FAQs
Who is eligible?
Individuals only. Trusts and businesses are not supported.
How much does it cost?
$1,000, paid once. No annual fee. It's separate from your loan and doesn't affect your interest rate or APR.
Does it cover loans I open later?
Yes. Coverage is on your account, so any new loan, refinance or rollover is automatically included.
Who can I name as my successor?
One individual or entity. If you want to benefit multiple heirs, name a trust or LLC as your successor.
Can I change my successor?
Yes. Email [email protected] and we'll send a new addendum to sign. The most recently signed addendum is the one that applies.
Will my successor be notified?
No. Arch has no obligation to tell your successor about the designation - we recommend you let them know.
How do I get a copy of my signed addendum?
Email [email protected].
Does this prevent liquidation if I die?
No. Your loan terms - including margin calls and liquidation - are unchanged. Beneficiary planning gives your successor a path to take over the loan rather than the estate being forced to default.
Is this a substitute for estate planning?
No. It covers your Arch account only. Speak with your own attorney about your broader estate plan. Arch does not provide legal or tax advice.
Can I pay in USDC?
Not at the moment - card (USD) only.
Contact & Support
Questions? Reach us via the chat widget or email [email protected].