Wealth with Intention

In the first 30 days after inheriting money, the most important thing you can do is slow down. Gather a complete inventory of what you inherited, park any liquid cash somewhere safe like a high-yield savings account, get a basic understanding of the tax picture, and start assembling a team of professionals. Most financial decisions can wait 30 to 90 days. Almost none of them require immediate action.

Why the First 30 Days Matter More Than You Think

Inheriting money is rarely just a financial event.

It usually arrives in the middle of grief, family dynamics, and decisions you were not expecting to make. And somewhere in all of that, someone is telling you that you need to act fast.

You don't. Not on most of it.

What you do in the first 30 days is not about making moves. It is about getting grounded, getting clear, and protecting yourself from the mistakes that are easiest to make when emotions are running high.

Here is what actually matters right now.

Step 1. Give Yourself Permis...

Inheriting wealth is rarely simple. Along with the financial windfall often comes grief, confusion, and the weight of responsibility. Maybe you've recently lost a parent or loved one, and now you're faced with managing money you never expected to have. It's a lot to process, and it's okay to feel overwhelmed.

While I can't take away the emotional complexity of this moment, I can help you avoid some of the most common financial mistakes I see clients make during this transition. Here are six pitfalls to watch out for—and how to navigate them with intention.

1. Making Big Decisions Too Quickly

When money suddenly appears in your account, it's tempting to act fast. Maybe you've been dreaming of a new car, or you want to help family members, or you think you should invest it immediately before you "waste" it.

I get it. But here's what I've seen happen: clients who rush into major purchases or investments often regret those decisions within a year or two.

What to do instead: Give yours...