‘$82K deposit after taxes and fees is a real blessing’: Just had my first child and need advice on what to do with this unexpected windfall. How can I make the most of it?

Hi Money Minder,

Hey there, just wanted to share some exciting news with you! After years of hard work and family support, I’m thrilled to say that I’ll be receiving a deposit of around $82K (or whatever the amount is in USD) in the next 4-6 weeks. It’s like a dream come true!

With this unexpected windfall, my wife, our 6-month-old son, and I are planning some amazing trips. Our little one just got his passport, and we’re already planning to jet off to the Caribbean in December to see my brother, then to Costa Rica for a friend’s wedding in July (thanks to some clever points bookings).

I’ll start by paying off my credit cards with a chunk of the money, but apart from that, we’re open to suggestions. No crazy splurges here, just looking for some smart and rewarding ideas. I’ve dabbled in some high-risk investments in the past, nothing too extreme, so if you have any tips for me in that area, I’d love to hear them.

While this money won’t change our lives entirely, it’s still a substantial sum all at once, and we want to make the most of it. Any advice you can offer would be greatly appreciated!

Cheers,
Anxiously Excited

Response from THE MONEY MINDER:

Hello There,

Congratulations on receiving such a significant windfall! It’s clear that your hard work and dedication over the years have paid off, and it’s wonderful to hear that you and your family are feeling so grateful and excited about the possibilities this money brings.

Given your plans to pay off your credit cards first, which is a very wise decision, and your intention not to buy a home right now, it sounds like you have a solid financial foundation. With the extra funds, one practical approach could be to consider building up your emergency savings fund. Having a healthy emergency fund can provide you with a safety net in case unexpected expenses arise, giving you peace of mind and financial security.

Additionally, since you mentioned enjoying small high-risk investments like shorting DJT and investing in RocketLab, you could look into diversifying your investment portfolio. Consider consulting with a financial advisor to explore long-term investment opportunities that align with your risk tolerance and financial goals. This could help you grow your wealth over time and potentially provide more financial stability for your family in the future.

Lastly, it’s great to hear that you value travel and are planning trips with your young child. Travel experiences can be incredibly enriching and create lasting memories. As you embark on these adventures, be sure to budget wisely and prioritize experiences that bring you and your family joy and fulfillment.

All the best from THE MONEY MINDER! Enjoy this exciting time and continue making thoughtful financial decisions to set yourself up for long-term success.