Monique, a self-made millionaire from Bangor, Maine, recently called into The Ramsey Show seeking advice on a deeply personal dilemma – her will. The mother of two shared that she's spent her life working hard, building wealth and even paying over $500,000 for her daughters' college educations. But now, she's struggling with a decision that's tearing her apart: should she leave them any of her money?
Monique says her daughters have embraced political views she can't support. One daughter and her husband are in the top 1% of earners, while the other makes about $50,000 a year. Despite their financial differences, Monique's issue isn't about money but values. "They've turned into socialists," she lamented during the call and Dave couldn't help but laugh. "I feel terrible about this, but I've worked so hard my whole life and I'm not sure I want my money going to them."
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Dave Ramsey's No-Nonsense Take
Dave Ramsey, known for his blunt advice, reminded Monique that her children aren't "entitled" to her wealth. "They didn't hit the DNA lottery," Ramsey quipped, adding that he's always been clear with his own kids about the responsibility of managing money. "If my children are going to be parasites, I'm not going to finance their lives."
Ramsey's advice is to set up a trust. He explained that trusts allow parents to put conditions on how and when their money is used. For instance, Monique could refuse her children access to the money until they are older or fulfill certain requirements, like becoming more self-sufficient financially or aligning with her ideals.
Ramsey also shared that he holds yearly meetings with his own children to review the responsibilities tied to the family's wealth. In these sessions, he lays out the rules and guidelines they must adhere to in order to handle what he refers to as “God’s money.” These discussions ensure clarity and alignment with his family's values.
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"You're not morally, ethically, legally or spiritually required to leave your money to people whose lives you don't agree with," Ramsey said.
Dr. John Delony, Ramsey's co-host, encouraged Monique to investigate her concerns more deeply. He suggested identifying specific behaviors or beliefs that trouble her and having a candid conversation with her daughters about those issues.
Monique's call touches on a growing debate: How much should parents do for their adult children? She's already paid for their education and given them a head start in life, but she now questions whether she should give them more. Ramsey and Delony's advice highlights that inheritance is a gift, not an obligation and it's up to Monique to decide how to handle it. Read Next:
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