Parents Furious Their 16 Y.O. Straight Up Refuses To Divide Up His Late Aunt’s Inheritance With 4 Other Siblings
There is something about the concept of inheritance that makes people lose their minds.
Money! That’s it, it’s money that’s the root of all evil here. Or the root of any other concept of objective morality.
Most don’t really expect family to become so possessive when it comes to someone getting an inheritance that is proportionately larger than what was given to other family members. It doesn’t have to be greed—mayhaps just good old rivalry or something along those lines—but it hits in the chest all the same.
A Redditor recently shared their conundrum of being a benefactor of a sizable inheritance, and how their mother and stepfather were quick to start dividing all that money up.
More Info: Reddit
Folks can do a lot of things if an inheritance is involved, and that’s all because it’s that cold hard cash that makes people lose their wits
Image credits: Tima Miroshnichenko (not the actual photo)
So, Reddit user u/MoreRyres is a 16-year-old teen who lost his dad when he was a baby, and has just recently lost his aunt. For most of his life, he had a stepfather, who brought a 15-year-old daughter from another relationship into this family (OP’s stepsister) and had 3 more kids with OP’s mom, ages 10, 9 and 7 as of the post.
The aunt, and the family on dad’s side in general, have always been involved in OP’s life. She would often tell him how he was just like his dad, who she thought was the best man she knew, and that he would be very proud of him. Needless to say, OP was very close with her.
One teen recently shared a story of how his inheritance led to a pretty intense conflict with his parents who insisted he share it with his 4 other siblings
Image credits: MoreRyres
After her passing, he became a huge benefactor in her will, and the bulk of everything was effectively his now, but accessible only through the grandparents (assuming this is up to a certain age when he will get it directly).
This in turn caught his mother’s and his stepfather’s eye. They were annoyed that none of the other kids among the 5 got anything in the will, and OP explained that that was to be expected. He was the only one directly related to his dad’s side of the family, and from their perspective, all of the other 4 kids were effectively stepkids. That’s not to say they were completely excluded—they were included in some stuff, but not to an inheritance degree.
The inheritance was from the teen’s aunt, and he was the only one of the 5 directly related to her as it was her late brother that was his father
Image credits: MoreRyres
So, in light of all of this, the mother had an idea for OP to split the inheritance equally among all the siblings. Her reasoning was that everyone would benefit from this, and the grandparents would allow OP access to the money.
The stepdad threw his two cents in by saying that if OP refuses, the other siblings will realize OP and his dad’s side of the family hate them, making OP the bad guy and the stepsister the good guy in this situation (despite her dislike of her siblings as well).
The mom and stepdad insisted he share the inheritance as it would be beneficial for everyone, whereas the teen wanted to respect the aunt’s wishes
Image credits: MoreRyres
OP’s stance, however, is that the aunt meant the inheritance for him, so it should stay in his possession. The mother protested against it, saying he’s hogging more than he’ll ever need, refusing to think of their futures.
He also added in a subsequent edit that the grandparents already know of these events, and they are the only ones who have access to the inheritance as the aunt has set it up that way. So, the money is safe.
Image credits: Karolina Grabowska (not the actual photo)
And what started off as wondering whether OP’s wrong to refuse ended up in a thread of support from the internet. Many of the commenters suggested moving in with the grandparents, or getting anyone else from the dad’s side of the family involved to avoid any other shenanigans that might come from the parents.
It was a clear NTA as commenters expressed their words of support, suggesting to get dad’s side of the family involved just in case
Image credits: Brett Sayles (not the actual photo)
Others added that the inheritance was meant for OP, and that’s how it should stay. If anything, it would mean respecting the aunt’s wishes because this whole gesture alone shows just how much she loved her nephew.
The post got some modest attention from the Reddit community, garnering nearly 3,000 upvotes (97% positive) as well as getting hundreds of supportive comments. You can check it all out on Reddit here.
But before that, don’t forget to upvote this article and to comment your thoughts and share your stories in the comment section below! And if you don’t feel like it, then maybe you’d like more malicious compliance in your life?
Auntie clearly knew what she was doing by giving access to the money only to his grandparents until OP is 18...
If it's the US that's usually how it works if you are leaving something to a minor.
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NTA. I feel like the aunt knew that this would happen, and that is why she made it so he could access the money only through the grandparents. If that makes any sense. Also the auntie had her reasons as to why she gave it to him and not his mother, step dad, and siblings. He was the closest to the aunt, he loved her and she loved him. They need to be respectful and BACK OFF.
Given that this child is the only biological nephew of the aunt, it makes sense that she may want to help him, especially given that his father can't be there for him. The parent's request is completely inappropriate. If she'd meant to give it to all the kids, she would have.
lmao I just had to point out the irony of Dan's comment: calling the OP selfish and entitled, while sticking up for the selfish family members who act entitled over an inheritance that isn't theirs.
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The aunt has no DNA link to any of his siblings. He alone is the son of her beloved brother who passed away. This is a clear money grab which thankfully his aunt saw would happen by people who she had no intention to pass the money along to. The step father especially is utter scum.
Grandparents have your back. Probably a good idea to have them continue to advise you with your finances even after you turn 18. Should you decide to do something for your siblings, like open savings accounts towards college or whatever, that is your choice alone. Children should never be expected to pay back parents for raising them, which is what this sounds like to me.
Time to get good grades and then move in with grandparents. Since you mom doesn't seem to act like a mom but more of a breeding machine and isn't really treating her kids fairly w that dork of a dad. Get a used car to get to school and a job. Save up and use some of the money left to get an apt. Don't tell mom or step siblings where you are. Just let them think you're still with the grandparents. Get ahead in your life and know your aunt prob wanted that for you. To get out and get better.
Sadly, he loves his younger half-sibliblings and doesn't want to just abandon them, at least not immediately as he mentioned to several people who told him to do the same thing. It's not his siblings fault that their parents are greedy, manipulative, abusive, fûcktards. If he wants to keep contact with them and help them out when they're older, or in ways that the parents don't know about, I can't see any reason for him not to do that. As long as he is careful about what he is doing, not giving large amounts of money to anyone and not allowing himself to be manipulated by the parents and cut contact way down or off completely where it concerns them. He says that his half-sibliblings, and even his step-sister (though he says she hates all of her half-sibliblings) is treated badly by his step-dad, so why should he abandon his innocent half-sibliblings... they don't deserve that and it would further isolate himself.
Load More Replies... You need to make sure there is a legal backup safety set up if something happens to your grandparents before you have access to the money. Ask the grandparents what they have worked out so you continue to be protected.
And it sounds like he may be one of the few relatives for his grandparents as well. If hee does survive them and is named in their will, the pressure will only get worse. Not suggesting that he does it but, the OP could call his mom and stepdad's bluff and offer the set aside some of the inheritance and post-secondary, tuition-only scholarships fort each of his half siblings. They are really only after the money for themselves so that would really set them off.
Yes, I agree. I’m really concerned for this young man’s welfare. The stepdad is not to be trusted. I see no good coming out of all this, should the OP decide to continue living there.
Load More Replies... I have no respect for parents who pull this c**p. If my ex-husband's family left my oldest daughter (their blood relative) an inheritance, my other kids (her half siblings) wouldn't get any of it, because that's not fair. The same goes in reverse, too - of my current husband's family left an inheritance to my younger kids, then my oldest wouldn't be expecting any of that. Now, whatever I leave, personally, as inheritance or my side of the family leaves as inheritance, that gets divided equally amongst all of my kids. Be careful who you marry, folks, they may just want your family's money (that's how I see OP's mother now, after reading this). I hope they keep their assets safe, and can rise above the mental abuse that's happening as a result - no doubt they tried to be sweet when they first asked for the money, then, when told, "No," they went straight for the, "I knew you were garbage and never cared about us," nonsense. Get a grip, money isn't everything.
OP: Ask your grandparents to make an appointment for you with an attorney to create your Last Will & Testament so YOU can designate a beneficiary(s). God forbid anything would happen to you, then the inheritance will be split among any living blood relatives if there is no directive in place.
Your aunt knew what she was doing. She knew who she wanted to leave things to. Your family sounds like a bunch of leeches. They all want a cut. Don't let them bully you. Don't give them access to that money. You also need to find yourself some legal help. Maybe the lawyer who filed the will for your aunt, or someone your grandmother trusts. You need your own advocate. Someone to look out for your interests in addition to your grandmother.
Your aunt clearly knew the p*******s you are living with. Stick to your guns. Plan for your future. Good luck and sorry for your losses
100% NTA. Hope he can get away from the manipulative and emotionally abusive mother and step father asap. Shouldn't waste another second worrying about their guilt trip bs.
The kid should get every bit of what was left to him and not be bullied into sharing it. People need to stop feeling like they have to be shared with. It wasn't yours to begin with, you're not losing anything just because you didn't gain it. Move along.
Blood relative leaves money to specific blood relative. It’s nothing to do with the step-family, plus it was specific who the money was for, in the will.
My deepest condolences to you young man. First off your mother and stepfather should be ashamed of themselves. Make sure there are steps in place JUST in case your grandparents don't live til you are the age to take over your inheritance. If possible take a day and have a real sit down with them. A trust should be enacted to be on the safe side. And if your parents start rolling treat you worse, please seek out your grandparent's
The mom should be ashamed of herself to allow that man to say anything negative about her son or allow him to have input into her Sons inheritance. Sure it has created tension with the step siblings but the “Parents” should have just said it was his Aunt .. her choice and drop it. Totally shameful and heartbreaking
DAN13LG IS A LOSER ! holy c**p Dan ! You must be the kids from the articles step dad ! You're the only person commenting who believes the b.s. you're typing !!! Lol . This kid is the only one in the family that's related to the deceased aunt . And that money is for his future . I'm not saying he deserves it . But it doesn't matter what he deserves . He's entitled to it, because it was left to him . And its his alone . Bottom line . You are a lame loser Dan . I laughed so hard when I read your c**p. 😆
Clearly Dan13LG is the stepdad in this situation this article is about. What kind of grown a*s adult calls a 16 year old a scum bag, and thinks that they need paid back for raising a child. Who cares if he's not yours! You married his mom and that means you took on the responsibility of that child welfare. And why should he give you a dime? The Aunt was related to none of you except the OP! The Aunt seemed to be if sound mind and gave her money to the person that was related to her. I think if she wanted his half siblings to have anything she would have put that in her will. But she didn't because they aren't related to her! The OP doesn't owe you or his mom for raising him and taking care of him! It's not like he asked to be born! Or have his dad die at a very young age! I think you and his mom are just jealous that his aunt didn't give you guys anything and put the grandparents in charge! She did this because she probably saw right threw your b******t!
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If she wanted the money split up she would of split it equally before she died may she rest in peace she would have done it the money is yours spend it wisely . Have something worth while to show for it when you do get it. Don't let your parents guilt trip you into giving it away
Given the way the boy's mom and step-dad are acting, I think the grandparents need to consider the boy's safety and well being by remaining with the mom and step-dad! What happens to the money if the boy has a tragic "accident"? Does that money go to the parents? That money needs to go into a trust so that the parents can NEVER get to it.
I think op should do what he first thinks is right. I would of been bullied to give it up I'm glad he has a good solid mond. I wish I could of stepped up and suedy stepfather in getting rid of my keepsakes that I saved starting at 3yesrs old he took from me and said he threw my stuff away or gave it to someone. Now they would of been my future worth alot of money. I was not strong enough to sue him . I was a wimp I'm glad he's not.
I am one who wholeheartedly is against the idea that inheritance should be for blood relations only. I AM FOR inheritance going to those who are THERE for the person. For those who make your life better. It is NOT something you leave to blood relatives to help them. It is something you leave to show you appreciated them in your life and the help they gave to make your life better. It is not about what you can do for/give to the recipients after death, it is about what they did for/gave you while you were alive. SO, What did these half-sibs/step DO when they were invited to family gatherings? Did they Talk with the Aunt often? Did they Listen? Did they ask about the brother? Did they ask about her life? Her stories? Did they try to share a hobby? Play Chess, Bridge, or some games? Did they help her from being bored with life? Did they ask her for advice? He is not getting money because he was related. He is getting it because she was able to talk about her brother. He was Priceless Therapy
Why do they think that the money is theirs? My aunt and uncle died. They had $450,000 set aside for the grandkids. When my uncle got sick, one of the grandkids took him to the bank and had him withdraw all of it and he kept it for himself and took a new jeep that was not his. Wow! He took the other grandkids share. They could have done something about it, but they did not want him to go to prison. The judge said he would, but they did not push it. I owned a duplex with my twin. It isvavlong story, but my name was not on it. He started taking all the equity out. He then proceeded to evict me so he could sell it. I put a claim on it and stopped him, but I lost around $200,000. Money goes to some people's heads. My own twin was going to take it all and he never invested in it. 8 put the down payment and I took care of everything for 20 years This family had no claim on the kids inheritance. I hope he did not give in to them!
The concern would be if anything happened to your grandparents before your Eighteen. So ask your Grandparents to go with you to a financial advisor because a trust would prevent your mom from having access to it. This also prevents a loss of the money from unnecessary taxes when they can be avoided. It may affect your access to financial aid and etc for college where a trust you can't tough will not.
I’m so sorry you’re going through all this, on top of your loss. I know you said you don’t want to leave your siblings yet. Please, rethink about moving in with your grandparents right now. I’m really concerned for your welfare. I don’t want to see you bullied, in front of your siblings. I’m just concerned for all of the children’s mental welfare, if you stayed until you’re 18. I hope things can turn out well for everyone’s sake. But, in light of what you expressed about your stepdad, I do think it would be best to get out now.
Your aunt knew what she was doing. Now since you know how everyone really is you need to leave and go stay with your grand parents and leave that situation and start living your life. You don't need to have those greedy people mooching off of you or trying to guilt you into doing something you don't have to do. Life is too short just leave and live your life. Whatever you decide to do is your choice but it's best to put distance between you and those mooches
AITA's when someone is so very clearly NTA are so pointless. It's just reading all the commenters saying the same thing over and over
Here's an idea, since your step siblings are so young, you have plenty of time to share your inheritance, if you want to. Maybe help them with college or schooling, but that doesn't need to happen right away. Tell your parents that if you decide to share the money, it'll be on your terms, not thiers. You're not being greedy, you're being practical and smart. There's no reason your young siblings need large sums of money right now, anyways. And if they need financial help down the road, you'll decide then. I'm sorry for your loss. I'm also sorry for the way your parents are behaving 8n the presence of money. I hope it all works out for you. Good luck!
Definitely agree with comments saying that you should let your grandparents know that mom and stepdad are pressuring you to "share" your inheritance with your stepsiblings when you aren't even old enough to tap into it, yourself!! Keep mentioning that you have no access to the money until you reach a certain age that was pre-determined by the trust. You are under NO obligation to share with your stepsiblings, regardless. It's your money, not theirs. Best of luck to you, especially if you have to go LC or NC to get away from out-stretched hands.
NTA. Although you're very young, you seem to be good at trusting your instincts. So, if it gets really bad, and it's realistic to live with your grandparents, you may need to consider legal emancipation. IF the 'inheritance' is considerable enough to be (somewhat) on your own when you turn 18.
If OP actually likes and is concerned about any step or half-siblings she can help them out later when she's a full adult and fully in control of things. She doesn't need to let her step or half-siblings, or her mom and step-father, p**s things away out of convenience.
I don’t know if you plan to attend college, but if you do and you want to go out of state, that will eat up a huge chunk of money, so keep that in mind.
I don't believe a word. Why? First claims to inherited funds and parents are pressuring to split it as if it's available now. BUT ITS NOT Available now. Keeps saying grandparents are in charge of the "money" this person inherited because they are under 18 and you can't make a minor a beneficiary. So the $$$ isn't going to be in their hands until 18 yrs old. Meaning everybody knows this including the parents. So why would they try to pressure into splitting it now when it clearly is in a trust until 18th bday. I guessing that is a couple years away. So fake story!
Keep the money kid. Screw the rest of your fake family. If they really cared about your aunt then they would have been there for you and her. Dont feel guilty. When it comes to money, supposed family comes out of the wood works. You aren't being greedy. Follow your aunts wishes as if she thought that anyone one deserved any of that money, she would have left some for them.
His aunt had no relationship his siblings and they had a different father. If course THEY want a free payout of someone else's money. The OP doesn't owe them and shouldn't give them a dime, they aren't morally or Legally Entitled to any of it.
You need to immediately draw up a will and be sure to let your mother, stepfather, step sister, and half siblings know that your entire estate goes to your grandparents in the event of your death. There are other documents that need to be drawn up as well, detailing who will make decisions for you should you not be able to make them for yourself, etc. An attorney can advise you. Take care of yourself.
Definitely NTA! His aunt knew this would happen that's why she left the grandparents in charge of the money and not his mom and stepdad. I feel bad for him this is not something any parent should do to their kid. Also it sucks he can't really grieve the loss of his aunt bc his mom and sd are making this all about money. The only ones being selfish and s***y are the parents!
NTA. Pls reco sider & DONT ACCESS the MONEY NOW! Wait till u are older & wiser & have a plan. Also, in the future, don't let people know if you have a lot of money in the bank. Often, ppl will try to get it from you, by begging , borrowing or stealing. I disagree with your parents, it's your money, dont waste it, make rational decisions about how you want to invest the money, or even gift part of it. . Don't be pressured into doing what other people want you to do. Your Aunt wanted you to have the money. You will need it as you make plans to go to college, and buy a home, and maybe start your own business. All these things are incredibly important & expensive.
I’m all about equal treatment regardless of “full” or “half” siblings, but in this case the Dad died before they arrived, the Dad’s sister gave the inheritance to the one who lost his father. Had the parents said it would be kind if you helped give part of some inheritance so they don’t feel left out, but ultimately it’s your choice. Not, you need to divide equally. They have a father and that father’s family. It would maybe be different if his Dad knew his other siblings and they were adopted into his Dads family, but they were not. Case closed, it’s the 16 year olds choice. Selfish, maybe maybe not, but the parents are selfish too asking him to divide equally when it’s not an equal situation/
Even if the siblings were all of the same loving parents, the deceased one's wishes prevail. If she picked only one heir, that heir is the only one getting the assets. End of the story.
It sounds as if you're money is safe. it would have been better for your aunt to have given it to your grandparents directly with a stipulation that it should be set up in a trust for your use upon (legal) maturity. But as it is I would be curious, how your "so considerate" stepdad and his family is to you, even before this, such as what Thier will says about you. My guess is you aren't mentioned, or def not equal to his daughter, or subsequent children with your mom. I'd try to get a look at their wills & use that as an example of why should you share equally with them, what is yours, as they aren't doing with you. Let that be a test for them, to fix their mistakes & first irrevocably changed all their wills to include you equally to what they give him & his eldest daughter (ideally this would add up to more than your aunt's bequest, if not, keep ur mouth shut and keep ur aunts money). And after the execut of your stepdads familys wills to u, then split your aunt's will will with them
Is it me or does there seem to be an excess of 16-year-olds that inherit a ton of money, have a cr@ppy home life, stepdad and step-siblings that are badgering the kid for money and have lost one parent (usually the dad)? Oh, and the bio mom always seems to let the stepdad treat their child like cr@p and do nothing about it? I think I've read more of these stories on Reddit than any other category
You're Aunt left the money in your name. Had she meant for anyone else to have any money or anything else, she would have put it in writing to be legal. It's yours. Keep it, use it for YOUR needs, or your start in life. That's all! Be proud and happy you have it!
The parents need to realize that this is his AUNT'S asset's and she left HER money and assets to him for a reason. They should grow up and respect her wishes instead of fighting over an indirect family members asset's after they pass away and already had their will set in stone. Their problem with her will shows they never deserved anything in the first place.
His so called mother and stepfather should leave him alone they are just greedy and have No entitlement to any of it . Not even the siblings has he's the only.child from his late father and no court in the world would change it has unless it's in a will he alone inherits the lot and they should back of it's not theirs I am so glad that his grandparents have charge over it and won't hand it over to them has for the stepdaughter who is Not even entitled to any has no biologically connection to his late fathers family or the stepfather.his siblings are only half of his he's the only one who is and has the right to decide what to do not his mother or stepfather I would no share with any of them and move in with grandparents
Hmm, I read that you do not wish to leave your siblings at the moment. However, I wonder if it would be beneficial to the situation if you were to become emancipated now in case of necessary quick action later when your step-dad ramps up his abuse.
Knew a kid that lost his mother at a very young age. She was a lawyer and left both him and his older brother a trust fund that paid monthly stipends, but they couldn't touch the bulk of it until they turned 18 or 21. They both lived with their grandfather as the older brother never finished highschool and moved back in after he squandered his portion of the trust fund after he came of age - literally like a year later. The older brother then put pressure on the grandfather, who managed the trust fund through the court, to take money out of the younger brother's trust to buy things. The younger brother didn't complain though - I had a very long talk with him about this, as he didn't think it was bad because he also bought whatever he wanted - Beats headphones with matching outfits, gaming consoles, electronics, etc. He didn't even know how much money was in the trust.
Minors cannot directly inherit property in the US. In this case, the Grandparents are Executors of the account until OP is 18. Trusts are similar, but are typically managed by an attorney or investment banker. They typically have strings attached limiting usage, amount or age of benefactor. It prevents kids from squandering inheritance.
They aren't grandkids. Not one drop of shared DNA nor did their son adopt them.
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The parents economic situation isn't the issue. They are adults. If that money was meant for his step siblings then the aunt would have included them in the will just like she included his cousins. The guilt trip his mother and step father layed on him about how his step siblings would see what a s****y brother he is and how his side of the family hates them all is both manipulative and emotionally abusive. Putting all of that on a 16 year old because of money they have no right to is disgusting.
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Auntie clearly knew what she was doing by giving access to the money only to his grandparents until OP is 18...
If it's the US that's usually how it works if you are leaving something to a minor.
Load More Replies... NTA. I feel like the aunt knew that this would happen, and that is why she made it so he could access the money only through the grandparents. If that makes any sense. Also the auntie had her reasons as to why she gave it to him and not his mother, step dad, and siblings. He was the closest to the aunt, he loved her and she loved him. They need to be respectful and BACK OFF.
Given that this child is the only biological nephew of the aunt, it makes sense that she may want to help him, especially given that his father can't be there for him. The parent's request is completely inappropriate. If she'd meant to give it to all the kids, she would have.
lmao I just had to point out the irony of Dan's comment: calling the OP selfish and entitled, while sticking up for the selfish family members who act entitled over an inheritance that isn't theirs.
Load More Replies... The aunt has no DNA link to any of his siblings. He alone is the son of her beloved brother who passed away. This is a clear money grab which thankfully his aunt saw would happen by people who she had no intention to pass the money along to. The step father especially is utter scum.
Grandparents have your back. Probably a good idea to have them continue to advise you with your finances even after you turn 18. Should you decide to do something for your siblings, like open savings accounts towards college or whatever, that is your choice alone. Children should never be expected to pay back parents for raising them, which is what this sounds like to me.
Time to get good grades and then move in with grandparents. Since you mom doesn't seem to act like a mom but more of a breeding machine and isn't really treating her kids fairly w that dork of a dad. Get a used car to get to school and a job. Save up and use some of the money left to get an apt. Don't tell mom or step siblings where you are. Just let them think you're still with the grandparents. Get ahead in your life and know your aunt prob wanted that for you. To get out and get better.
Sadly, he loves his younger half-sibliblings and doesn't want to just abandon them, at least not immediately as he mentioned to several people who told him to do the same thing. It's not his siblings fault that their parents are greedy, manipulative, abusive, fûcktards. If he wants to keep contact with them and help them out when they're older, or in ways that the parents don't know about, I can't see any reason for him not to do that. As long as he is careful about what he is doing, not giving large amounts of money to anyone and not allowing himself to be manipulated by the parents and cut contact way down or off completely where it concerns them. He says that his half-sibliblings, and even his step-sister (though he says she hates all of her half-sibliblings) is treated badly by his step-dad, so why should he abandon his innocent half-sibliblings... they don't deserve that and it would further isolate himself.
Load More Replies... You need to make sure there is a legal backup safety set up if something happens to your grandparents before you have access to the money. Ask the grandparents what they have worked out so you continue to be protected.
And it sounds like he may be one of the few relatives for his grandparents as well. If hee does survive them and is named in their will, the pressure will only get worse. Not suggesting that he does it but, the OP could call his mom and stepdad's bluff and offer the set aside some of the inheritance and post-secondary, tuition-only scholarships fort each of his half siblings. They are really only after the money for themselves so that would really set them off.
Yes, I agree. I’m really concerned for this young man’s welfare. The stepdad is not to be trusted. I see no good coming out of all this, should the OP decide to continue living there.
Load More Replies... I have no respect for parents who pull this c**p. If my ex-husband's family left my oldest daughter (their blood relative) an inheritance, my other kids (her half siblings) wouldn't get any of it, because that's not fair. The same goes in reverse, too - of my current husband's family left an inheritance to my younger kids, then my oldest wouldn't be expecting any of that. Now, whatever I leave, personally, as inheritance or my side of the family leaves as inheritance, that gets divided equally amongst all of my kids. Be careful who you marry, folks, they may just want your family's money (that's how I see OP's mother now, after reading this). I hope they keep their assets safe, and can rise above the mental abuse that's happening as a result - no doubt they tried to be sweet when they first asked for the money, then, when told, "No," they went straight for the, "I knew you were garbage and never cared about us," nonsense. Get a grip, money isn't everything.
OP: Ask your grandparents to make an appointment for you with an attorney to create your Last Will & Testament so YOU can designate a beneficiary(s). God forbid anything would happen to you, then the inheritance will be split among any living blood relatives if there is no directive in place.
Your aunt knew what she was doing. She knew who she wanted to leave things to. Your family sounds like a bunch of leeches. They all want a cut. Don't let them bully you. Don't give them access to that money. You also need to find yourself some legal help. Maybe the lawyer who filed the will for your aunt, or someone your grandmother trusts. You need your own advocate. Someone to look out for your interests in addition to your grandmother.
Your aunt clearly knew the p*******s you are living with. Stick to your guns. Plan for your future. Good luck and sorry for your losses
100% NTA. Hope he can get away from the manipulative and emotionally abusive mother and step father asap. Shouldn't waste another second worrying about their guilt trip bs.
The kid should get every bit of what was left to him and not be bullied into sharing it. People need to stop feeling like they have to be shared with. It wasn't yours to begin with, you're not losing anything just because you didn't gain it. Move along.
Blood relative leaves money to specific blood relative. It’s nothing to do with the step-family, plus it was specific who the money was for, in the will.
My deepest condolences to you young man. First off your mother and stepfather should be ashamed of themselves. Make sure there are steps in place JUST in case your grandparents don't live til you are the age to take over your inheritance. If possible take a day and have a real sit down with them. A trust should be enacted to be on the safe side. And if your parents start rolling treat you worse, please seek out your grandparent's
The mom should be ashamed of herself to allow that man to say anything negative about her son or allow him to have input into her Sons inheritance. Sure it has created tension with the step siblings but the “Parents” should have just said it was his Aunt .. her choice and drop it. Totally shameful and heartbreaking
DAN13LG IS A LOSER ! holy c**p Dan ! You must be the kids from the articles step dad ! You're the only person commenting who believes the b.s. you're typing !!! Lol . This kid is the only one in the family that's related to the deceased aunt . And that money is for his future . I'm not saying he deserves it . But it doesn't matter what he deserves . He's entitled to it, because it was left to him . And its his alone . Bottom line . You are a lame loser Dan . I laughed so hard when I read your c**p. 😆
Clearly Dan13LG is the stepdad in this situation this article is about. What kind of grown a*s adult calls a 16 year old a scum bag, and thinks that they need paid back for raising a child. Who cares if he's not yours! You married his mom and that means you took on the responsibility of that child welfare. And why should he give you a dime? The Aunt was related to none of you except the OP! The Aunt seemed to be if sound mind and gave her money to the person that was related to her. I think if she wanted his half siblings to have anything she would have put that in her will. But she didn't because they aren't related to her! The OP doesn't owe you or his mom for raising him and taking care of him! It's not like he asked to be born! Or have his dad die at a very young age! I think you and his mom are just jealous that his aunt didn't give you guys anything and put the grandparents in charge! She did this because she probably saw right threw your b******t!
Load More Replies... If she wanted the money split up she would of split it equally before she died may she rest in peace she would have done it the money is yours spend it wisely . Have something worth while to show for it when you do get it. Don't let your parents guilt trip you into giving it away
Given the way the boy's mom and step-dad are acting, I think the grandparents need to consider the boy's safety and well being by remaining with the mom and step-dad! What happens to the money if the boy has a tragic "accident"? Does that money go to the parents? That money needs to go into a trust so that the parents can NEVER get to it.
I think op should do what he first thinks is right. I would of been bullied to give it up I'm glad he has a good solid mond. I wish I could of stepped up and suedy stepfather in getting rid of my keepsakes that I saved starting at 3yesrs old he took from me and said he threw my stuff away or gave it to someone. Now they would of been my future worth alot of money. I was not strong enough to sue him . I was a wimp I'm glad he's not.
I am one who wholeheartedly is against the idea that inheritance should be for blood relations only. I AM FOR inheritance going to those who are THERE for the person. For those who make your life better. It is NOT something you leave to blood relatives to help them. It is something you leave to show you appreciated them in your life and the help they gave to make your life better. It is not about what you can do for/give to the recipients after death, it is about what they did for/gave you while you were alive. SO, What did these half-sibs/step DO when they were invited to family gatherings? Did they Talk with the Aunt often? Did they Listen? Did they ask about the brother? Did they ask about her life? Her stories? Did they try to share a hobby? Play Chess, Bridge, or some games? Did they help her from being bored with life? Did they ask her for advice? He is not getting money because he was related. He is getting it because she was able to talk about her brother. He was Priceless Therapy
Why do they think that the money is theirs? My aunt and uncle died. They had $450,000 set aside for the grandkids. When my uncle got sick, one of the grandkids took him to the bank and had him withdraw all of it and he kept it for himself and took a new jeep that was not his. Wow! He took the other grandkids share. They could have done something about it, but they did not want him to go to prison. The judge said he would, but they did not push it. I owned a duplex with my twin. It isvavlong story, but my name was not on it. He started taking all the equity out. He then proceeded to evict me so he could sell it. I put a claim on it and stopped him, but I lost around $200,000. Money goes to some people's heads. My own twin was going to take it all and he never invested in it. 8 put the down payment and I took care of everything for 20 years This family had no claim on the kids inheritance. I hope he did not give in to them!
The concern would be if anything happened to your grandparents before your Eighteen. So ask your Grandparents to go with you to a financial advisor because a trust would prevent your mom from having access to it. This also prevents a loss of the money from unnecessary taxes when they can be avoided. It may affect your access to financial aid and etc for college where a trust you can't tough will not.
I’m so sorry you’re going through all this, on top of your loss. I know you said you don’t want to leave your siblings yet. Please, rethink about moving in with your grandparents right now. I’m really concerned for your welfare. I don’t want to see you bullied, in front of your siblings. I’m just concerned for all of the children’s mental welfare, if you stayed until you’re 18. I hope things can turn out well for everyone’s sake. But, in light of what you expressed about your stepdad, I do think it would be best to get out now.
Your aunt knew what she was doing. Now since you know how everyone really is you need to leave and go stay with your grand parents and leave that situation and start living your life. You don't need to have those greedy people mooching off of you or trying to guilt you into doing something you don't have to do. Life is too short just leave and live your life. Whatever you decide to do is your choice but it's best to put distance between you and those mooches
AITA's when someone is so very clearly NTA are so pointless. It's just reading all the commenters saying the same thing over and over
Here's an idea, since your step siblings are so young, you have plenty of time to share your inheritance, if you want to. Maybe help them with college or schooling, but that doesn't need to happen right away. Tell your parents that if you decide to share the money, it'll be on your terms, not thiers. You're not being greedy, you're being practical and smart. There's no reason your young siblings need large sums of money right now, anyways. And if they need financial help down the road, you'll decide then. I'm sorry for your loss. I'm also sorry for the way your parents are behaving 8n the presence of money. I hope it all works out for you. Good luck!
Definitely agree with comments saying that you should let your grandparents know that mom and stepdad are pressuring you to "share" your inheritance with your stepsiblings when you aren't even old enough to tap into it, yourself!! Keep mentioning that you have no access to the money until you reach a certain age that was pre-determined by the trust. You are under NO obligation to share with your stepsiblings, regardless. It's your money, not theirs. Best of luck to you, especially if you have to go LC or NC to get away from out-stretched hands.
NTA. Although you're very young, you seem to be good at trusting your instincts. So, if it gets really bad, and it's realistic to live with your grandparents, you may need to consider legal emancipation. IF the 'inheritance' is considerable enough to be (somewhat) on your own when you turn 18.
If OP actually likes and is concerned about any step or half-siblings she can help them out later when she's a full adult and fully in control of things. She doesn't need to let her step or half-siblings, or her mom and step-father, p**s things away out of convenience.
I don’t know if you plan to attend college, but if you do and you want to go out of state, that will eat up a huge chunk of money, so keep that in mind.
I don't believe a word. Why? First claims to inherited funds and parents are pressuring to split it as if it's available now. BUT ITS NOT Available now. Keeps saying grandparents are in charge of the "money" this person inherited because they are under 18 and you can't make a minor a beneficiary. So the $$$ isn't going to be in their hands until 18 yrs old. Meaning everybody knows this including the parents. So why would they try to pressure into splitting it now when it clearly is in a trust until 18th bday. I guessing that is a couple years away. So fake story!
Keep the money kid. Screw the rest of your fake family. If they really cared about your aunt then they would have been there for you and her. Dont feel guilty. When it comes to money, supposed family comes out of the wood works. You aren't being greedy. Follow your aunts wishes as if she thought that anyone one deserved any of that money, she would have left some for them.
His aunt had no relationship his siblings and they had a different father. If course THEY want a free payout of someone else's money. The OP doesn't owe them and shouldn't give them a dime, they aren't morally or Legally Entitled to any of it.
You need to immediately draw up a will and be sure to let your mother, stepfather, step sister, and half siblings know that your entire estate goes to your grandparents in the event of your death. There are other documents that need to be drawn up as well, detailing who will make decisions for you should you not be able to make them for yourself, etc. An attorney can advise you. Take care of yourself.
Definitely NTA! His aunt knew this would happen that's why she left the grandparents in charge of the money and not his mom and stepdad. I feel bad for him this is not something any parent should do to their kid. Also it sucks he can't really grieve the loss of his aunt bc his mom and sd are making this all about money. The only ones being selfish and s***y are the parents!
NTA. Pls reco sider & DONT ACCESS the MONEY NOW! Wait till u are older & wiser & have a plan. Also, in the future, don't let people know if you have a lot of money in the bank. Often, ppl will try to get it from you, by begging , borrowing or stealing. I disagree with your parents, it's your money, dont waste it, make rational decisions about how you want to invest the money, or even gift part of it. . Don't be pressured into doing what other people want you to do. Your Aunt wanted you to have the money. You will need it as you make plans to go to college, and buy a home, and maybe start your own business. All these things are incredibly important & expensive.
I’m all about equal treatment regardless of “full” or “half” siblings, but in this case the Dad died before they arrived, the Dad’s sister gave the inheritance to the one who lost his father. Had the parents said it would be kind if you helped give part of some inheritance so they don’t feel left out, but ultimately it’s your choice. Not, you need to divide equally. They have a father and that father’s family. It would maybe be different if his Dad knew his other siblings and they were adopted into his Dads family, but they were not. Case closed, it’s the 16 year olds choice. Selfish, maybe maybe not, but the parents are selfish too asking him to divide equally when it’s not an equal situation/
Even if the siblings were all of the same loving parents, the deceased one's wishes prevail. If she picked only one heir, that heir is the only one getting the assets. End of the story.
It sounds as if you're money is safe. it would have been better for your aunt to have given it to your grandparents directly with a stipulation that it should be set up in a trust for your use upon (legal) maturity. But as it is I would be curious, how your "so considerate" stepdad and his family is to you, even before this, such as what Thier will says about you. My guess is you aren't mentioned, or def not equal to his daughter, or subsequent children with your mom. I'd try to get a look at their wills & use that as an example of why should you share equally with them, what is yours, as they aren't doing with you. Let that be a test for them, to fix their mistakes & first irrevocably changed all their wills to include you equally to what they give him & his eldest daughter (ideally this would add up to more than your aunt's bequest, if not, keep ur mouth shut and keep ur aunts money). And after the execut of your stepdads familys wills to u, then split your aunt's will will with them
Is it me or does there seem to be an excess of 16-year-olds that inherit a ton of money, have a cr@ppy home life, stepdad and step-siblings that are badgering the kid for money and have lost one parent (usually the dad)? Oh, and the bio mom always seems to let the stepdad treat their child like cr@p and do nothing about it? I think I've read more of these stories on Reddit than any other category
You're Aunt left the money in your name. Had she meant for anyone else to have any money or anything else, she would have put it in writing to be legal. It's yours. Keep it, use it for YOUR needs, or your start in life. That's all! Be proud and happy you have it!
The parents need to realize that this is his AUNT'S asset's and she left HER money and assets to him for a reason. They should grow up and respect her wishes instead of fighting over an indirect family members asset's after they pass away and already had their will set in stone. Their problem with her will shows they never deserved anything in the first place.
His so called mother and stepfather should leave him alone they are just greedy and have No entitlement to any of it . Not even the siblings has he's the only.child from his late father and no court in the world would change it has unless it's in a will he alone inherits the lot and they should back of it's not theirs I am so glad that his grandparents have charge over it and won't hand it over to them has for the stepdaughter who is Not even entitled to any has no biologically connection to his late fathers family or the stepfather.his siblings are only half of his he's the only one who is and has the right to decide what to do not his mother or stepfather I would no share with any of them and move in with grandparents
Hmm, I read that you do not wish to leave your siblings at the moment. However, I wonder if it would be beneficial to the situation if you were to become emancipated now in case of necessary quick action later when your step-dad ramps up his abuse.
Knew a kid that lost his mother at a very young age. She was a lawyer and left both him and his older brother a trust fund that paid monthly stipends, but they couldn't touch the bulk of it until they turned 18 or 21. They both lived with their grandfather as the older brother never finished highschool and moved back in after he squandered his portion of the trust fund after he came of age - literally like a year later. The older brother then put pressure on the grandfather, who managed the trust fund through the court, to take money out of the younger brother's trust to buy things. The younger brother didn't complain though - I had a very long talk with him about this, as he didn't think it was bad because he also bought whatever he wanted - Beats headphones with matching outfits, gaming consoles, electronics, etc. He didn't even know how much money was in the trust.
Minors cannot directly inherit property in the US. In this case, the Grandparents are Executors of the account until OP is 18. Trusts are similar, but are typically managed by an attorney or investment banker. They typically have strings attached limiting usage, amount or age of benefactor. It prevents kids from squandering inheritance.
They aren't grandkids. Not one drop of shared DNA nor did their son adopt them.
Load More Replies... The parents economic situation isn't the issue. They are adults. If that money was meant for his step siblings then the aunt would have included them in the will just like she included his cousins. The guilt trip his mother and step father layed on him about how his step siblings would see what a s****y brother he is and how his side of the family hates them all is both manipulative and emotionally abusive. Putting all of that on a 16 year old because of money they have no right to is disgusting.
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