Sign up for our newsletters! Jean Chatzky  Large sums of
unexpected money can come from a variety of sources, whether
it's a legal settlement, insurance claim, inheritance…or even a
lottery prize. According to Susan Bradley, that money can often
bring problems, from feelings of guilt and fear to familial
conflicts and reckless spending. Jean talks with Susan, a
financial planner and founder of the Sudden Money Institute,
about the best ways to manage a large financial windfall.  Susan
says the first step is to establish a decision-free zone: Decide
to not make any nonessential decisions for as long as it takes
you to feel comfortable with the money you've been given. "What
we're looking for is a sense of feeling grounded again," she
says. To that end, do not quit your job, buy a mansion or make
any financial commitments to anyone until you're ready.  During
this time, Susan says you should consider hiring a financial
consultant, as well as a professional organizer and wellness
expert to help you make sound de