Most Americans admit they wouldn’t know what to do with a sudden large deposit. It sounds like a great problem to have—until it happens. You could get a bonus, a settlement, an inheritance, or even an old refund. One day you check your balance and there’s a number higher than you’ve ever seen. That quick rush of excitement? It fades once you realize you don’t have a plan.

The truth is that unexpected money can disappear just as fast as it arrived. Many people spend the entire amount within a few months and regret how they used it. The way you handle a windfall can affect your financial situation for years. 

This article will guide you through the very first steps to take so you can use that money in a way that helps you—not hurts you.

Double-Check Where the Money Came From

If you received a check, confirm who issued it and why. Check your records and communication to see if you were expecting it. If it came through direct deposit, review the transaction details in your online banking.

This step matters more than you think. Banks can reverse funds if there’s an error or fraud involved. And if it’s a large amount, you’ll want paperwork showing where it came from in case questions come up later—for taxes, benefits, or legal reasons.

Know When the Money Will Actually Be Available

Just because money shows up doesn’t mean you can use it right away. If it came by check, it might take some time to clear. Most banks release the first $225 of a check deposit by the next business day. The rest may take one to two days or longer. 

The answer to how many days for a check to clear depends on your bank—usually 2 to 5 business days.

Using those funds too early can lead to overdraft fees or declined transactions. Always wait for full confirmation from your bank before you spend.

Keep It to Yourself for Now

It might be tempting to tell people. You might want to post about it or share the news with family or friends. But once others know, the pressure starts. People may ask for help, loans, or gifts. Some may even offer advice or pitch you ideas. That kind of noise can cloud your judgment.

Until you know exactly what you’re doing with the money, it’s better to stay quiet. This is your financial moment. You don’t need outside opinions right now. Keep the information to yourself while you figure things out.

Move It to a Separate Account

If the money lands in your main checking account, you’ll probably spend it without meaning to. Even small expenses will chip away at it before you’ve made a plan. To avoid that, transfer the funds to a separate account. A high-yield savings account is a good choice if you don’t need the money right away.

Keeping the windfall out of your regular account gives you more control. You’ll see it as separate money and treat it with more care. It also gives you time to decide how you really want to use it—without the temptation of having it right there in your daily balance.

Use It for What You Truly Need Right Now

Once the money clears and you’ve moved it to a separate account, take time to look at your current situation. Are there any urgent expenses you’ve been putting off? Maybe you have unpaid rent, a medical bill, or your car needs repairs. These are real needs, not just wants.

It’s okay to use part of your windfall to get caught up or take care of something that’s been stressing you. The key is to be clear about what counts as necessary. If you’ve been living paycheck to paycheck, this might be the chance to fix that cycle. But avoid spending just because you finally can. Focus on what will reduce stress or improve your daily life.

Target the Most Expensive Debts First

Debt with high interest can eat away at your income for years. Credit cards and payday loans are often the worst. If you’re carrying balances like these, using your windfall to pay them down can make a real difference. You’ll pay less in interest every month, and that gives you more room in your budget.

Start with the highest interest rate, not the biggest balance. That’s where your money will have the most impact. But don’t feel like you need to pay off all your debt at once. It’s okay to leave some money aside for savings too. A balanced approach usually works best.

Don’t Forget About Possible Taxes

Not every windfall is tax-free. Some types of money—like gambling winnings, bonuses, or legal settlements—might be taxed. Even if taxes weren’t withheld up front, you could still owe money when you file your return. The last thing you want is a surprise tax bill months later.

Set aside a portion of the windfall just in case. A good starting point is 20 to 30 percent, but the right number depends on your situation. You can keep this money in a separate account until you speak to a tax pro. It’s better to be safe now than scramble later.

Give Your Money a Job With Real Goals

Money without direction disappears fast. That’s why you need to give your windfall a purpose. Think about what matters to you. Maybe you’ve been meaning to build an emergency fund, start a business, or save for school. Now’s your chance to make progress.

List your short-term and long-term goals. Then assign the money where it fits best. You don’t need to spend it all at once. In fact, it’s often better to set up automatic transfers or savings plans so the money works for you over time. That way, you’re building a more secure future instead of just buying things in the moment.

Talk to a Pro Before Making Big Moves

You don’t need a full-time financial advisor to get solid advice. Even one session with a fee-based planner can help. They’ll look at your situation and help you plan for taxes, debt, savings, and investing. They can also help you avoid bad choices—like risky investments or giving away too much.

Choose someone who isn’t trying to sell you anything. Look for certified financial planners or advisors who work for a flat fee. A good one will listen to your goals and give you clear steps based on what matters to you.

A windfall can be a gift—but only if you treat it with care. Without a plan, the money can disappear quickly, leaving you no better off. But when you slow down, make smart choices, and think long term, you give that money real power. Whether it’s building security, clearing debt, or reaching a goal, your next steps matter.

The most important part? Knowing this moment can change more than your balance—it can change your habits, too. And that’s worth more than the check itself.

Think you have a black thumb? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Many people struggle to keep plants alive, but growing your own vegetables doesn’t have to be complicated. Some veggies are incredibly forgiving, even for total beginners. Most of them grow like weeds! Whether you’re planting in a backyard garden, on a balcony, or in containers, these eight vegetables practically grow themselves.

Carrots

Carrots are low-effort as long as you have loose, sandy soil. Just plant the seeds and wait. Thin them once they sprout and let them grow underground—easy!

Cucumbers

Cucumbers grow fast, love warm weather, and produce generously. They do best with plenty of sunlight and consistent watering. You can grow bush varieties in containers or vining types along a trellis to save space. As long as they stay hydrated, they’re low-fuss and high-reward.

 5. Zucchini

Zucchini plants are prolific producers—one plant can yield more than enough. They need room to spread, but they’re low-maintenance and grow fast in warm weather.

6. Green Beans

Green beans love sunlight and don’t need much pampering. Choose bush beans for containers or pole beans if you have vertical space. Just water them consistently, and they’ll reward you with a bountiful crop.

7. Green Onions

Green onions are nearly impossible to mess up. You can grow them from seeds or just pop the white root ends into soil or a glass of water. They’ll regrow in days and keep producing if you trim them gently. They don’t need much space, making them great for windowsills and containers.

8. Radishes

Radishes are the ultimate beginner crop. They sprout in just a few days and are ready to harvest in about a month. They thrive in cooler weather and don’t require much space or maintenance.

9. Lettuce

Leafy greens like romaine and butterhead grow quickly and are perfect for small spaces. You can even cut the leaves and let the plant regrow for multiple harvests.

10. Spinach

Spinach is another cool-weather champ. It grows quickly and can handle a little neglect. Harvest the outer leaves and let the center keep growing.

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Teri Monroe

Teri Monroe started her career in communications working for local government and nonprofits. Today, she is a freelance finance and lifestyle writer and small business owner. In her spare time, she loves golfing with her husband, taking her dog Milo on long walks, and playing pickleball with friends.