Answer:
First, consider putting the money into a safe, liquid account such as a savings or money market account until you have time to take stock of your situation. Don’t spend or invest your windfall until you have a chance to:
- See a tax professional and analyze the tax consequences–you may need a big portion of what you have received to pay taxes
- Consider how the windfall affects your overall financial situation
- Create a budget
- Speak with a financial professional to help you decide the best way to invest
- Consult with an estate planning attorney to create or update your will and other necessary documents
You should also guard against those who offer get-rich-quick schemes or otherwise want to share in your windfall. If you have hired an attorney or other professional to help you manage your new wealth, it might be a good idea to refer all of the requests that you receive to that person.
Often a wise financial move, no matter the size of your windfall, is to pay off high-rate loans such as credit card balances. Then, only after you have carefully considered how your circumstances have changed, indulge yourself with something you’ve always wanted. Spend wisely, though. If you plan well and control the urge to spend lavishly, however, your good fortune could provide you with financial security for many years to come.
Copyright 2006- Broadridge Investor Communication Solutions, Inc. All rights reserved.
Broadridge Investor Communication Solutions, Inc. does not provide investment, tax, or legal advice. The information presented here is not specific to any individual’s personal circumstances.
To the extent that this material concerns tax matters, it is not intended or written to be used, and cannot be used, by a taxpayer for the purpose of avoiding penalties that may be imposed by law. Each taxpayer should seek independent advice from a tax professional based on his or her individual circumstances.
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