Whatever the sum involved, the impact of one's emotional state on the way money is handled--or mishandled--cannot be underestimated. In addition to the legal intricacies of receiving sudden money, the element of surprise that catches people unprepared also often leaves them there. Here, at last, is a type of "owner's manual" to sudden money that demystifies the process for recipients and their financial planners. Based on her work with countless clients, many of whose stories appear in this book, Bradley has developed a step-by-step program for moving safely through the three phases of building a solid financial foundation:

• Preparation and Planning
• Investing
• Monitoring, Giving, and Sharing

Giving individual attention to each possible windfall event, Bradley addresses their distinct tax consequences, insurance and estate planning considerations, as well as the crucial emotional component. She also shares advice on how to put together the proper team of advisors, including an attorney and a therapist. When correctly handled, an unexpected windfall can provide expected benefits that will continue far beyond the lifetime of the initial recipient---and turn sudden money into lasting wealth.

Turn Sudden Money into Lasting Wealth

Maximize your wealth and minimize your stress and confusion with this unique, indispensable guide to handling a sudden financial windfall. Written by nationally recognized financial planner Susan Bradley, Sudden Money provides a complete program for successfully managing newfound wealth. Discover ways to:

• Stay calm and not make decisions based on your emotions
• Seek experienced, professional advice
• Avoid pressure from others
• Create and execute the best financial plan for you

Most important, Sudden Money provides you with easy-to-implement, proven ways to ensure that your financial gains are more than fleeting good fortune.

"A 'must read' for financial advisors and for clients who have received financial windfalls. Susan Bradley has detailed--in an easy-to-apply way--a new financial planning discipline that is sure to become a vital part of discussions about the burgeoning wealth in this country."
—Ronni Burns, Wall Street consultant

"This book is essential for anyone who receives a financial windfall. It's an easy read and packed with useful advice."
—Don Phillips, CEO, Morningstar

"Reading this book is like having a trusted friend explain what to expect, what to do, and what not to do at a happy time that can also be overwhelming and stressful. This book has been extraordinarily helpful to me."
—Marci Shimoff, coauthor, Chicken Soup for the Soul

"Women in particular are often ill prepared to manage a financial windfall. Without careful planning, it could turn into a pitfall. Susan Bradley's book is a sensible guide on how to handle instant wealth."
—Jennifer Openshaw, CEO, WFN.com, Financial Network for Women