When life hands you a windfall
Sometimes, money comes in unexpectedly. A lotto win. A surprise inheritance. A big redundancy payout or legal settlement. Whatever the reason, receiving a large sum of money at once can feel exciting, emotional, or even overwhelming.
After a windfall you might be wondering:
“What should I do with this money?”
“How do I make sure I don’t waste it?”
At Stockspot, we help Australians make calm, confident financial decisions after a windfall. Whether your goal is to grow your wealth, secure your lifestyle, or help your family, we’ll help you build a plan with clarity and confidence.
What to do when you’ve received unexpected money
What should I do first?
The best first move is to pause. Don’t feel pressure to make big decisions straight away. Let the dust settle, and park the money somewhere safe (like a high-interest savings account or a cash ETF) while you get advice and weigh up your options.
What are my options for investing an unexpected sum of money?
Once you’re ready, you can create an investment portfolio that matches your goals and risk comfort. Whether you want long-term growth, steady income, or a mix of both, a diversified ETF portfolio gives you low-cost access to global markets—without having to pick stocks or time the market.
Can I live off a windfall?
Possibly, yes. With the right strategy, a windfall can provide ongoing income. For example, a $500,000 portfolio invested in a moderate-risk mix might generate $30,000 to $40,000 a year, depending on returns and drawdowns. The key is setting realistic expectations and avoiding overspending early on.
How to set yourself up for success
- Don’t rush decisions
People often feel pressure to buy property, gift money or make big purchases straight after a windfall. But it’s smart to wait. Emotional decisions can lead to regret, or worse, financial strain. - Get a plan that fits your goals
What do you want this money to do? Retire early? Buy a home? Support your kids? Travel more? Knowing your “why” helps shape the “how”. A clear plan makes your money go further, with fewer surprises. - Be prepared for attention
Sudden wealth can attract people; family, friends, even scammers, who want a piece of it. Set clear boundaries early, and protect your privacy. A trusted adviser can help you navigate those conversations with confidence and kindness. - Make smarter financial decisions
Start with the basics. Pay off high-interest debts (like credit cards) before investing. Set aside an emergency fund so you’re not forced to sell investments during a downturn. Build a buffer before you build wealth. - Invest in a way that suits you
You don’t need to become a day trader. Stockspot offers portfolios that grow steadily with minimal fuss. We use diversified ETFs so you get access to local and global shares, bonds and gold, with less risk than picking individual stocks. - Avoid “get rich quick” traps
Sadly, sudden money can make people targets for bad advice or risky schemes. If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Stick with strategies that are evidence-based and proven to work over time.
Why people trust Stockspot after a windfall
We help Australians invest large sums with care and purpose, without sales pressure, stock tips or confusing jargon. Whether your windfall is $100,000 or $5 million, we tailor our advice to your goals and risk comfort.
Our portfolios are low-fee, automated, and designed to grow steadily over time. We take the emotion and guesswork out of investing, so your windfall turns into long-term wealth.
How Stockspot can support you after a windfall
Book a free, no-pressure consultation with a Stockspot adviser. We’ll help you:
- Park your windfall safely while you consider your options
- Create a plan to grow your wealth sustainably
- Invest sustainably or align your portfolio to family values
- Avoid high fees that eat into long-term returns
- Set up income streams or savings goals
- Avoid common pitfalls and risky decisions
Whether your money came from luck, inheritance or payout, we help you make the most of it, calmly and wisely.
Take the next step with Stockspot
A windfall can give you freedom, if you manage it well.
Stockspot is here to help you invest with clarity, protect what you’ve received, and build a secure financial future.
About Stockspot
Stockspot is Australia’s largest online investment adviser, trusted by over 16,000 Australians. Our low-cost ETF portfolios are designed to help you grow and protect wealth, with a long-term, evidence-based approach that works, whether you’ve just won the lottery or simply want to make smarter financial decisions.
Our evidence-based investment philosophy is simple: low fees, smart diversification, and no hype.
See how our portfolios have performed here.
