Did you know that a financial windfall can range from a few hundred to millions of rupees? Imagine the possibilities! However, it’s not all about lavish spending; statistics show that about 70% of people who receive a cash windfall lose it within a few years due to impulsive financial decisions.
What is a financial windfall?
A financial windfall refers to an unexpected, often substantial, sum of money received suddenly. It’s like stumbling upon a treasure chest in your backyard. This could be from various sources such as a lottery win, an inheritance, or a significant bonus at work. While the amount can vary, it typically represents a significant boost to one’s financial situation.
That’s why managing a windfall wisely is crucial. To make the process easier, here’s a five-step guide to managing your windfall.
Step 1: Pause and Plan
Take a Breath: Before making any decisions, take a moment to let the news sink in. Acting in haste can lead to regrettable choices. Nearly 1/3rd of people who win the lottery become bankrupt, which might seem odd, but logic says when one receives an unexpected financial windfall much higher than their regular income, they spend it on things that they can’t afford, and that’s never a good idea.
For example, a person who earns Rs 20,000 per month wins a lottery of Rs 20 lakhs and decides to use this money to buy a car costing Rs 15 lakhs. Although they are able to purchase a car with this money the fuel an average car can have a fuel tank with a capacity of 30 to 50 liters considering that the car has a fuel tank of 30 liters, as of 03-05-2024 the petrol will cost Rs 104 so a full tank would cost Rs 3,120 and maintenance of this car will be too expensive landing anywhere between Rs 5,000 – Rs 8,000 and it can go even higher if any part of the vehicle is damaged, making it a bad financial decision.
Assemble a Team: Consider enlisting the services of a financial advisor, a tax professional, and an estate lawyer. These experts can offer invaluable guidance tailored to your unique circumstances, ensuring that your financial decisions are sound and legally compliant.
Step 2: Assess and Pay Off Debt
Evaluate Your Debts: When faced with various debts after a financial windfall, it’s essential to methodically assess and prioritize them. Start by listing all your debts, including credit card balances, personal loans, and mortgages. Prioritize repayment based on interest rates, tackling the highest ones first to prevent the compounding effect from escalating the owed amounts. This strategy, known as the avalanche method, not only helps reduce the principal faster but also minimizes the total interest paid over time, leading to significant savings.
Consider Your Mortgage: For homeowners with a mortgage, a discussion with a financial advisor is crucial to determine the most beneficial course of action. While paying off a mortgage early can provide peace of mind, it’s important to consider the potential tax advantages of mortgage interest deductions. An advisor can help you weigh the benefits of early repayment against the possibility of investing that money elsewhere for a higher return. Ultimately, the aim is to ensure long-term financial health and stability, turning the windfall into a foundation for future financial freedom.
Step 3: Secure Your Future
Emergency Fund: Once you are done with paying debt, it’s recommended to have an emergency fund that covers at least 3-6 months of living expenses for those with stable jobs, and 6-12 months for those with less job security. This fund should be easily accessible and separate from your regular accounts to avoid impulsive spending. It’s advisable to keep this fund in a savings account with a high-interest rate or consider liquid mutual funds for better returns while maintaining high liquidity.
Retirement Savings: If you’ve received a substantial windfall, you might also consider investing in an annuity plan. Annuity plans in India offer a variety of options, providing a regular pension post-retirement, with the flexibility of lump-sum or regular contributions. It’s essential to consult with a financial advisor to choose the right plan that aligns with your retirement goals and financial situation.
Step 4: Invest Wisely
Diversify Your Portfolio: Once you have secured your future it’s to grow the remaining money, and the key to managing risk effectively is diversifying your portfolio. This means allocating your investments across various asset classes such as equities, debt instruments, mutual funds, real estate, and even gold.
Each asset class has its own risk profile and potential for returns, and a well-diversified portfolio can help balance the risk-reward ratio. For instance, while equities may offer high growth potential, they come with higher volatility. On the other hand, debt instruments like fixed deposits or government bonds provide stability and regular income.
Think Long-Term: When investing in India, it’s crucial to maintain a long-term perspective. This involves looking beyond short-term market fluctuations and focusing on long-term financial goals. High-risk investments such as derivatives or highly leveraged positions should only be considered if they fit within your overall risk tolerance and investment strategy.
For most investors, a mix of mutual funds and long-term equity investments aligned with their financial goals can be a more suitable approach. It’s also wise to review and adjust your investment portfolio periodically to ensure it remains aligned with your changing financial objectives and market conditions.
Step 5: Enjoy, But Don’t Waste
Set a Budget for Fun: When managing a financial windfall, it’s important to allocate funds for leisure and enjoyment in a balanced way. In India, where family and festivals play a significant role, setting aside a portion of your windfall for such occasions is culturally appropriate. Determine a percentage of the windfall that you can afford to spend on leisure without affecting your financial goals. This could be used for family vacations, festivals, or other celebrations. It’s essential to stick to this budget to avoid overspending.
Avoid Lifestyle Inflation: A sudden increase in wealth can tempt you to elevate your standard of living. However, in the Indian context, where economic stability can be uncertain, it’s wise to maintain a modest lifestyle. Instead of upgrading to a luxury car or moving to a more expensive neighborhood, consider the long-term benefits of wealth preservation. Invest in assets that appreciate over time, like property or education, and avoid the trap of spending on depreciating assets that contribute to lifestyle inflation.
Conclusion
Windfalls are rare and can offer a unique opportunity to improve your financial standing. By following these steps, you can ensure that your newfound wealth serves you well for years to come. Remember, the key is to balance enjoying your windfall with making smart financial decisions that will benefit you and your loved ones in the long run.
FAQs
What should I do immediately after receiving a financial windfall?
Take a moment to let the news sink in and avoid making any hasty decisions. Nearly one-third of lottery winners go bankrupt due to poor financial choices, so it’s crucial to act prudently.
Why is it important to assemble a team of professionals?
A financial advisor, tax professional, and estate lawyer can provide expert advice tailored to your situation, helping you make sound decisions and ensuring legal compliance.
How should I approach debt after receiving a windfall?
List all your debts and prioritize them based on interest rates. Use the avalanche method to pay off high-interest debts first, which can save you money and reduce the principal faster.
Should I pay off my mortgage immediately?
Consult with a financial advisor to determine if paying off your mortgage early is beneficial, considering potential tax advantages and investment opportunities for better returns.
What is the purpose of an emergency fund?
An emergency fund covers 3-6 months of living expenses and provides financial security against unforeseen circumstances. It should be easily accessible and separate from regular accounts.
I’m Archana R. Chettiar, an experienced content creator with
an affinity for writing on personal finance and other financial content. I
love to write on equity investing, retirement, managing money, and more.