Wisdom Before Windfalls: Preparing for an Inheritance, Bonus, or Liquidity Event

Most financial advice focuses on what to do after the money arrives. But for Christians preparing to receive a significant sum, whether through an inheritance, the sale of a business, a large bonus, or a concentrated stock payout,  the most important work may begin before the deposit ever hits your account.

We believe preparation is not just financial. It's spiritual.

This kind of planning starts with a question: How can I honor God with what I’ve been entrusted to receive?

The Pressure of Sudden Wealth

While these moments often carry joy or relief, they also come with complexity. Inheritances may follow loss. Bonuses may feel hard-earned but short-lived. Liquidity events may trigger tax consequences, lifestyle shifts, or pressure to make quick decisions.

In our experience, people who receive wealth without preparation often face one of two temptations:

• Paralysis: They don’t know where to start, so they put off decisions and miss opportunities.

• Impulse: They move too quickly, driven by emotion, advice from others, or a desire to "do something" now.

Neither response is necessarily intentional. That’s why we believe the wisest path forward starts with asking different questions ahead of time.

Key Questions to Consider Before the Money Arrives

Here are a few questions that may help prepare your heart and financial plan for what’s coming:

• What is this money for? Is it meant to sustain your family, give more generously, create a legacy, or fund a new calling? Clarifying this may help guide how it’s allocated.

• How does this fit into your overall plan? Receiving a large sum may open new doors, but it may also expose areas of your financial life that need attention. Reviewing your existing plan is essential.

• What are the tax implications? A thoughtful strategy may reduce unnecessary tax burdens. This is especially true for the sale of business assets, stock options, or inherited property.

• Who are the right people to help? No one needs to navigate this alone. A team that includes your financial advisor, tax professional, and estate attorney may offer wisdom and objectivity.

• How will I remain faithful in the process? Money often amplifies what’s already present. Prayer, counsel, and accountability may help keep your priorities aligned with your values.

Planning from a Place of Peace

You don’t need to have all the answers today. But preparing in advance may allow you to approach a windfall with clarity and peace instead of stress or regret.

At Stonecrop, we believe that stewardship begins long before the first dollar is spent. Whether the next financial chapter is months or years away, taking time now to plan faithfully may help you receive it well.

How Stonecrop May Help

At Stonecrop, we help Christians prepare for significant financial transitions with clarity, conviction, and purpose. We believe that wisdom before the windfall often makes the difference between short-term decisions and long-term impact. 

If you are expecting a financial event and want guidance that reflects your faith and values, reach out to us at info@stonecropadvisors.com. We would be honored to walk with you.