On my eighteenth birthday, which is in just over a month, I come into the first $20,000 (US) of a lawsuit settlement. I am going to be in school, but I have $4,000 in grants (that covers all my tuition) and $12,000 in subsidized loans (no interest at all while I’m in school) for next year.
I come into the rest of the lawsuit settlement, $51,500, right about as I’ll be finishing school, on my 21st birthday. I’d like to invest as much of this money as possible, in somewhat low-risk places. Since my loans are all no-interest while I’m in school, I figure I’m better off waiting to pay them off while my settlement money grows.
I’ve already registered with two financial advisory groups (the Respond Financial Planning Services Team and the National Association of Personal Financial Advisors [NAPFA]), which send all your information to financial advisors. Unfortunately, most financial advisors require a minimum portfolio of $100,000 (or they only do taxes, or they only work on retirement portfolios…).
So my question is two-fold.
(1) Do you have any advice for me? How should I invest that money?
(2) If you think it’d be good for me to talk to a financial planner, how do I find one who will accept someone with as small an amount as I have to invest? Are there any books I should read?
Thanks.
Your situation is unique. Your school tuition appears to be under control. Your financial furture once you get out of school looks bright.
I reccommend you take the first installment of your settlement and invest it in a varied portfolio of domestic and overseas options. At your age, it would be best to look into low-risk investments that show a decent rate of return, usually CD’s. Get the longest term that you can. When it matures, drop the money into another CD. Keep doing that until you get the second installment, then look at stocks and bonds. If you handle your investments wisely, you’ll develop a nest egg for yourself that will see you through any storm.
Of course, it always helps to have a good financial planner to guide you through the unfamiliar landscape of investments. Talk to family members (chances are, they can reccommend someone that you can trust) and close friends. They will always be your best resource. the planner does charge for his services, so make sure you discuss that and get "the biggest bang for your buck".
Good luck in school and in the future!