What To Do With Unexpected Money? 7 Smart Things To Do!

Getting unexpected money can transform your life.

Whether it is a lottery win, an inheritance, or a large end-of-year bonus, receiving an unexpected windfall can be an exciting and potentially life-changing event. Suddenly, you find yourself with a sum of money that you hadn’t anticipated, and it is essential to make smart decisions about how to handle it.

In this article, we will explore some prudent steps you can take to make the most of your unexpected windfall and transform your life for the best.

What to Do With Unexpected Money?

If you are wondering what to do with your newfound wealth, here is some valuable advice on things to do with unexpected money:

1. Assess Your Financial Situation

Before diving into any specific actions to handle a sudden financial windfall, it is crucial to take a moment to assess your current financial situation.

Evaluate your debts, savings, and long-term financial goals. If you have outstanding debts, such as credit card balances or loans, consider using a portion of the unexpected windfall to pay them off. Achieve’s debt solutions can help you understand your options and make informed decisions about debt repayment.

2. Create an Emergency Fund

Building an emergency fund is a wise financial move for everyone, regardless of their income level. An emergency fund provides a safety net for unexpected expenses or financial downturns.

Set aside a portion of your unexpected windfall to establish or bolster your emergency fund. Aim to save at least three to six months’ worth of living expenses to ensure you have a financial cushion in case of unforeseen circumstances.

3. Invest in Your Future

Consider using a portion of your unexpected money to invest in your future. This could involve contributing to retirement accounts, such as an individual retirement account (IRA) or a 401(k) if you have one.

If you don’t already have retirement savings, starting now can significantly benefit your long-term financial security. Consult with a financial advisor to understand the best investment options for your unique situation.

4. Pay Off High-Interest Debts

High-interest debts can be a significant drain on your finances. If you have credit card balances or loans with high-interest rates, using some of your unexpected windfalls to pay them off can save you a considerable amount of money in interest payments over time.

Start by paying off debts with the highest interest rates first, as this will have the most significant impact on reducing your overall debt burden.

5. Invest in Education or Skills Development

Investing in yourself is never a bad idea. Consider using a portion of your financial windfall to further your education or develop new skills.

This could involve taking courses or workshops that enhance your professional qualifications or pursuing a degree or certification in a field you are passionate about. By investing in your knowledge and skills, you can open up new opportunities for career growth and personal development.

6. Splurge Responsibly

While it is important to be prudent with your unexpected money, it is also okay to treat yourself a little. After all, financial windfalls are often once-in-a-lifetime events.

Consider setting aside a small portion of the money for a special purchase or experience that brings you joy. Whether it is a dream vacation, a piece of artwork, or a new gadget, splurging responsibly can be a rewarding way to celebrate your good fortune.

7. Seek Professional Advice

Managing an unexpected windfall can be overwhelming, especially if you are not accustomed to dealing with large sums of money.

Seeking professional financial advice can provide you with guidance tailored to your unique circumstances. A financial advisor can help you develop a comprehensive financial plan, navigate complex tax considerations, and make informed investment decisions.

With their expertise, you can maximize the long-term benefits of your financial windfall.

Conclusion

Receiving unexpected money can be life-changing. To make the most of it, assess your financial situation, pay off debts, and build an emergency fund. Consider investing in your future, paying off high-interest debts, and investing in education.

Treat yourself to a responsible splurge and seek professional financial advice to make wise decisions and maximize the long-term benefits from the financial windfall.

I am Adeyemi Adetilewa, a media consultant, entrepreneur, husband, and father. Founder and Editor-In-Chief of Ideas Plus Business Magazine, online business resources for entrepreneurs. I help brands share unique and impactful stories through the use of public relations, advertising, and online marketing. My work has been featured on the Huffington Post, Thrive Global, Addicted2Success, Hackernoon, The Good Men Project, and other publications.