How to Create a Cold or Paper Wallet for XRP

Creating a secure storage solution for your XRP is one of the most important steps you can take as a cryptocurrency holder. Unlike keeping your assets on an exchange, a cold or paper wallet keeps your private keys completely offline—shielding them from hackers, phishing attacks, and online vulnerabilities.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to create a secure XRP paper wallet in under a minute using an open-source tool. We’ll walk you through the entire process: generating your keys, activating your wallet, sending and receiving XRP, and best practices for long-term security.

Whether you're new to crypto or a seasoned investor, securing your digital assets with a cold storage method is essential. Let’s dive in.

What Is an XRP Paper Wallet?

A paper wallet is a physical document that contains your public address (where others send XRP) and your private key or secret seed (which grants access to the funds). Since it’s offline, it's considered a form of cold storage, making it one of the safest ways to hold XRP long-term.

The method described here uses the Minimalist Ripple Client, an open-source, lightweight web interface that allows you to generate XRP keys without installing any software.

Step-by-Step: How to Create a Cold or Paper Wallet for XRP

Step 1: Access the Minimalist Ripple Client

Begin by visiting the official open-source client developed by Jatchili. This tool runs directly in your browser and doesn’t require downloads or installations.

👉 Generate your secure XRP wallet now using this trusted offline method.

Step 2: Disconnect from the Internet

Before generating your keys:

• Open the tool while online.
• Then, go offline (disconnect your Wi-Fi or unplug your network cable).

This ensures no malicious scripts can transmit your private key to third parties during generation—a core principle of cold wallet creation.

Step 3: Generate Your XRP Address

Once offline:

1. Click "Generate Identity".
2. A public address starting with r will appear—this is your XRP receiving address.
3. Click "Show/Hide Secret" to reveal your secret key (also called a seed).

🔐 Never expose your secret key online. Anyone with access to it controls your XRP.

Step 4: Securely Store Your Keys

Save both pieces of information:

• Public Address (starts with 'r')
• Private Seed (starts with 's')

Use multiple secure methods:

• Write them on paper and store in a fireproof safe.
• Save in an encrypted USB drive.
• Use a password-protected document (but avoid cloud storage).

Consider making two copies stored in separate secure locations to prevent loss due to damage or misplacement.

Step 5: Activate Your Wallet with 20 XRP

XRP wallets must be activated on the Ripple network by depositing a minimum of 20 XRP into your public address.

⚠️ These 20 XRP are not transferable—they remain locked in your account as reserve requirements set by the XRP Ledger to prevent spam.

For safety, send 25–30 XRP initially:

• Covers potential high exchange withdrawal fees.
• Leaves you with 5–10 XRP available for future transactions.

👉 Check current XRP prices and prepare your activation deposit securely.

How to Send XRP from Your Paper Wallet

To send XRP from your cold wallet, you need to temporarily import your secret key online. Follow these steps carefully:

1. Go online and open the Minimalist Ripple Client.
2. Enter your secret key in the "Show/Hide Secret" field.
3. Click "Set Identity".
4. Press "Connect to Ripple" to sync with the network.

5. In the "Send Payment" section:

   • Enter the amount of XRP (in standard units, not drops).
   • Select "direct xrp→xrp".
   • Input the recipient’s XRP address.
6. If required, click "Use Optional Fields" and add the Destination Tag (used by exchanges for proper crediting).
7. Click "Send"—your transaction will confirm in seconds.

🛡️ After sending, return to offline mode and erase any digital traces of your private key.

Important Notes About XRP Wallet Security

• Reserve Requirement: The XRP Ledger requires 20 XRP to activate each wallet. This amount cannot be withdrawn—it acts as collateral for network integrity.
• Partial Withdrawals Allowed: If you deposit 30 XRP, only 10 are freely spendable.
• Destination Tags Are Optional for Wallets: You don’t need to include a destination tag when sending to another personal wallet—only when depositing to exchanges.
• Always Verify Addresses: Double-check recipient addresses before sending. Transactions on the XRP Ledger are irreversible.
• Open Source Trust: The Minimalist Ripple Client is open-source and auditable on GitHub, increasing transparency and trust.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I create an XRP paper wallet without spending 20 XRP?

No. The XRP Ledger mandates a minimum reserve of 20 XRP to prevent network spam. This amount is locked in your account permanently but enables full functionality.

Q: Is the Minimalist Ripple Client safe?

Yes—when used correctly. Always generate keys offline, and never enter your secret on untrusted websites. The tool is open-source, meaning its code can be reviewed publicly for security.

Q: What happens if I lose my paper wallet?

If you lose both your public address and private seed, your funds are unrecoverable. Always maintain backups in secure locations.

Q: Can I reuse my XRP address?

Yes. Unlike some cryptocurrencies, XRP addresses can be reused safely. However, for privacy reasons, consider using different wallets for different purposes.

Q: Are there hardware wallets for XRP?

Yes. Devices like Ledger support XRP through apps like Ledger Live. For maximum security, a hardware wallet is preferable over a paper wallet for active use.

Q: Why does the balance show in “drops”?

The native unit of XRP is called a “drop.”
1 XRP = 1,000,000 drops.
So, 50 XRP appears as 50,000,000 drops in raw data displays.

Best Practices for Long-Term XRP Storage

• Never share your secret key, digitally or physically.
• Avoid taking photos or scanning your paper wallet—this creates digital exposure.
• Test with a small amount first before transferring large holdings.
• Periodically verify your wallet balance using a block explorer like XRPL.org.

👉 Stay updated on XRP developments and manage your portfolio securely with advanced tools.

By following this guide, you’ve taken a major step toward true ownership of your cryptocurrency. A paper wallet gives you full control, removes reliance on third parties, and protects against online threats.

Remember: Not your keys, not your crypto.

With proper care, your XRP can remain safe for years—no matter how the market shifts.