How to Make the Most of a Windfall: Smart Financial Moves After an Unexpected Gain
Receiving a windfall—whether from an inheritance, a bonus, the sale of a business, or a lottery win—can be both exciting and overwhelming. While it may feel tempting to splurge right away, taking the time to plan your next steps can turn that windfall into long-term financial security.
We like to share this downloadable guide as a free resource to those looking for assistance on this topic: What Issues Should I Consider If I Experience A Sudden Wealth Event?
Here are some key topics to help you make the most of your unexpected financial gain.
1. Pause and Reflect
When the windfall arrives, it’s normal to feel a rush of excitement. Before making any major decisions, take a step back to let the emotions settle. This could mean parking the funds in something like an FDIC protected high-yield savings account for a few months while you decide how to allocate them. Avoid making impulsive purchases or investment decisions during this period.
2. Review Your Financial Goals
Think about your long-term financial priorities. What are your goals for the next 5, 10, or 20 years? These might include:
• Paying off debt
• Building an emergency fund
• Saving for a home
• Funding children’s education
• Preparing for retirement
• Starting a business
Identifying these goals will guide your decision-making process and ensure that your windfall is used wisely to improve your financial future.
3. Pay Off High-Interest Debt
One of the smartest moves you can make is to eliminate high-interest debt, such as credit cards, personal loans, or other types of consumer debt. Reducing or eliminating these payments can free up more of your income for other financial goals and help you avoid the interest drag that can erode your wealth.
4. Build or Strengthen Your Emergency Fund
An emergency fund provides a financial cushion for unexpected events like job loss, medical emergencies, or major home repairs. If you don’t already have one, or if it’s not fully funded, this is a good time to ensure you have at least 3–6 months of living expenses set aside in a high-yield savings account.
5. Invest for the Future
After securing your immediate financial health, consider using part of your windfall to invest for the future. Depending on your goals, this might involve contributing to retirement accounts, brokerage accounts, or even real estate investments. Be sure to diversify your portfolio to manage risk, and consult with a financial planner to ensure your investments align with your long-term objectives.
6. Tax Considerations
Many windfalls, especially from bonuses, inheritances, or the sale of assets, come with tax implications. Consult with a tax professional to understand your obligations and structure your windfall in a tax-efficient way. You may also want to consider making strategic charitable donations to reduce your taxable income. Tax planning is something we do in an ongoing cycle with our comprehensive client relationships because even smaller amounts can add complexity to your tax profile in both current and future years.
7. Plan for the Long-Term
A windfall is a chance to improve your long-term financial health, so think about how you can turn it into lasting wealth. This could mean setting up trusts, buying life insurance, or establishing college savings plans for children. We can help ensure you make decisions that will benefit you and your family in the future.
8. Treat Yourself (Responsibly)
It’s okay to use a portion of the windfall to enjoy life. Set a limit (perhaps 5–10% of the total amount) to spend on something special—like a vacation or a luxury item—without jeopardizing your long-term financial plans.
9. Work with Professionals
Managing a windfall can be complex, especially when it involves large sums and has tax implications. When the numbers are big, working with a team of professionals, such as a financial planner, tax advisor, and estate attorney, can help ensure you’re making informed decisions. We can assist in creating a comprehensive plan that aligns with your financial goals.
Conclusion
A windfall offers an incredible opportunity to strengthen your financial future, but it requires careful planning. By taking the time to reflect, setting clear goals, paying off debt, and investing wisely, you can turn this unexpected gain into a foundation for lasting wealth. And remember, it’s always a good idea to consult with trusted financial professionals to help guide your decisions along the way.
