JWT Decoder – View Token Header & Payload Instantly

Paste a JWT and see the decoded header and payload. Useful for debugging auth flows, inspecting claims, and verifying token structure. Runs entirely in your browser.

About JWT Decoder

The JWT Decoder is an essential tool for developers working with JSON Web Tokens. It instantly decodes JWT tokens to reveal the header and payload, helping you understand token structure, check expiration, and extract claims. Perfect for API development, authentication debugging, and learning JWT structure.

Use Cases:

  • Debugging authentication issues in API development
  • Inspecting JWT token contents and claims
  • Checking token expiration and validity
  • Understanding JWT structure and format
  • Extracting user information from tokens
  • Learning how JWT tokens work

Key Features:

  • Instant JWT token decoding
  • Header and payload display in readable JSON format
  • Automatic expiration checking
  • Common claims extraction (sub, exp, iss, etc.)
  • Copy decoded data to clipboard
  • 100% browser-based - no server processing

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I decode a JWT token?

Simply paste your JWT token into the input field. The tool automatically decodes the header and payload, displaying them in a readable JSON format. The token should have 3 parts separated by dots (header.payload.signature).

What is a JWT token?

JWT (JSON Web Token) is a compact, URL-safe token format used for authentication and authorization. It consists of three parts: header (algorithm and token type), payload (claims/data), and signature (for verification).

Can I verify the JWT signature?

This tool decodes and displays the JWT header and payload. Signature verification requires the secret key or public key, which should be kept secure. This tool focuses on decoding the readable parts of the token.

What information does a JWT contain?

A JWT contains a header (algorithm, token type) and a payload (claims like user ID, expiration time, issuer, etc.). Common payload claims include 'sub' (subject), 'exp' (expiration), 'iat' (issued at), 'iss' (issuer), and custom claims.

Is the JWT decoder free to use?

Yes! Our JWT decoder is 100% free with no registration required, no usage limits, and no hidden fees. You can decode as many JWT tokens as you need for your development work.

Are my tokens stored or tracked?

No, all JWT decoding happens locally in your browser. We don't store, save, or have access to any JWT tokens you decode. Your privacy and security are completely protected.

How do I check if a JWT token is expired?

The tool automatically checks the 'exp' (expiration) claim in the payload and displays whether the token is expired or valid. Expired tokens show a warning message with the expiration date.

What are JWT claims?

JWT claims are key-value pairs in the payload that contain information about the token. Standard claims include 'sub' (subject), 'exp' (expiration), 'iat' (issued at), 'iss' (issuer), 'aud' (audience), and 'nbf' (not before). You can also include custom claims.

Can I decode JWT tokens from different providers?

Yes! The tool can decode any JWT token regardless of the provider (Auth0, Firebase, AWS Cognito, etc.) as long as it follows the standard JWT format with three base64-encoded parts separated by dots.

What's the difference between JWT header and payload?

The header contains metadata about the token (algorithm used, token type). The payload contains the actual claims/data (user information, permissions, expiration, etc.). Both are base64-encoded JSON objects.

How do I use JWT tokens in API development?

JWT tokens are commonly used for API authentication. After receiving a token, use this decoder to inspect its contents, verify claims, check expiration, and debug authentication issues during development.

Is it safe to decode JWT tokens?

Yes, decoding JWT tokens is safe and only reveals the header and payload (which are base64-encoded, not encrypted). However, never share your JWT secret keys publicly. This tool only decodes, it doesn't verify signatures.