Many Australians spend decades building their superannuation balance, only to face a completely new challenge when they receive a large inheritance. Recently, we worked with a couple approaching retirement who unexpectedly inherited $1.7 million in cash. They already had approximately $900,000 in superannuation, and while they believed they had enough money to retire comfortably, they had no clear strategy for managing it.

If you’ve received a windfall such as an inheritance, bonus or tax return, deciding where to put it is an important consideration. A common question from clients is ‘should I put extra cash into the home loan or invest in super?’ The answer to this question is not clear-cut and can depend on your age, appetite for risk and goals.

Blended families are increasingly common. Second marriages, de facto relationships, children from previous relationships, stepchildren, and shared assets accumulated over different lifetimes can add complexity to inheritance. Estate planning for blended families balances the need to provide for a surviving partner with the protection of your biological children's inheritance. A carefully considered plan can help to minimise stress for loved ones when you’re gone.