💰 What to Do With Inherited Money

The First 30 Days: Do Almost Nothing

The single most important thing you can do after receiving an inheritance is slow down. People who make the worst decisions do so in the first few weeks -- impulsive purchases, premature investments, giving money to the wrong people. This guide walks you through a clear, sequenced plan so you make decisions you will be proud of in 20 years.

What This Guide Covers

• ✓The 30-day stabilization rule (and where to park the money safely)
• ✓Understanding what you actually received -- account types, tax implications, stepped-up basis
• ✓The non-negotiables: debt payoff priority order, emergency fund, insurance
• ✓How to use the inheritance to maximize tax-advantaged retirement accounts
• ✓Index fund investing for non-experts -- the evidence-based framework
• ✓The house decision: buy, pay off mortgage, or invest?
• ✓Family and giving: how to say no gracefully and avoid classic traps
• ✓How to find a good financial advisor (and avoid bad ones)
• ✓The 8 most common inheritance mistakes -- and how to avoid every one
• ✓Your complete 90-day action plan from receipt to long-term plan

Who This Is For

• • Anyone who has recently received or expects to receive an inheritance
• • People overwhelmed by the decision and not sure where to start
• • Anyone who wants to make sure this money lasts
• • People who don't want to pay a financial advisor before knowing the basics