It sounds like the setup for a joke: A rich uncle dies and leaves you a fortune. But what happens next in real life? A financial windfall, large or small, needs to be managed well. Here are some tips on what to do if you come into some money:

• Stash it away. Put the money away for at least six months. Trying to decide what to do with the money too soon after a relative’s death may lead to questionable decisions. Put it into a money market or savings account for a little while.
• Assess your debt situation. Before you decide to invest or buy something with the money, determine whether the funds would be better spent wiping out any debt you may have.
• Seek advice. If you receive more than $20,000, consider hiring a financial advisor who can tell you how to gain the largest or safest return on your investments.