My uncle distributed inheritance to his children in their 20s

July 4, 2024 | 03:13 pm PT
My uncle distributed inheritance to his children in their 20s
Distributing inheritance early and transparently can frequently prevent conflicts. Illustration photo by VnExpress/Quynh Tran
Rather than being ambiguous, my uncle openly discussed inheritance with his kids in their high school years and passed down his assets when they reached their 20s.

Regarding the recent contentious issue of inheritance, I believe there is no one-size-fits-all solution for everyone. Some people choose to pass down their inheritance to their children early, others after their passing as they do not want to rely on anyone in their old age.

I have read several stories where early inheritance leads to family conflicts, so I want to share my uncle’s story to provide an alternative perspective on the matter.

My uncle is an engineer with a very modest lifestyle. Both of his children excelled at school, especially the younger daughter who was renowned throughout the district for her academic achievements. Since junior high school, my uncle had informed her about her future inheritance. Upon hearing the amount, she exclaimed that it was too much and said that she would need to learn how to manage it.

"I will work independently to earn money and gain sufficient experience to manage your assets," she told him.

She believes she has to earn a substantial amount of money to understand how to manage such a large sum. So, from then on, she became even more determined to work hard. After finishing high school, she successfully enrolled in a major university in the city. After obtaining her degree, she quickly found employment and rose through the ranks with her outstanding capability.

Only after purchasing her first plot of land with her own funds at the age of 28 did she officially receive her inheritance. She has since used the money to build and expand a successful business.

On the other hand, her brother received his inheritance earlier when he graduated from university. He, too, worked diligently and became even wealthier than his sister, despite receiving the same amount of inheritance.

Contrary to the concerns and admonitions of many, my uncle passed down his assets very early between his two children. He even risked transferring his house to his son when he was just 20 years old. Ultimately, his decision has proven to be the right one.

My uncle recently passed away. His son has started a family in a house he purchased with his own money but kept the house he inherited as a memento. My uncle’s daughter also has a key to that house and visits it on his death anniversaries to handle ceremonies and clean up.

From this story, do you still think that giving out early inheritance only results in negative consequences?

Reader Minh Phuong

*This opinion was translated into English with the assistance of AI. Readers’ views are personal and do not necessarily match VnExpress’ viewpoints.

 
 
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