Dave Says: Giving from Grandfather's Wealth

Dear Dave,

My grandfather died about a month ago, and I recently learned that in his will he distributed his money unevenly between his children and grandchildren. I received significantly more than other members of the family, but I make $140,000 a year. I'd like to give them some of my inheritance to even things out. How would you approach this?

Kate

Dear Kate,

You're obviously unselfish and have a really good heart. But honestly, it was your grandfather's decision and his money to do with as he pleased. It wouldn't be wrong or greedy to simply keep what you have without worrying about it a second longer.

If some of your relatives are having financial troubles and you feel that making a gift of a portion of your inheritance will help, you can do that. With your income, it's probably not going to change your life in a big way. My advice would be to look at your relatives and their situations objectively and see if something like this would really be a blessing. Then, if your heart and your head still tell you it's a good thing, do it.

—Dave