Ask Amy: It’s tough to be young and sober at the clubs
Dear Amy: My sister retired recently and moved away from her family and to the Southwest.
She purchased a small home in a 55-and-older community and seems very happy. She stated that it was the only place she found that she could afford, relying solely on her Social Security and some savings.
Thirty years ago, she divorced and apparently in the divorce decree her husband was ordered to invest a sum of money, on her behalf, to be given to her when her ex-husband retired.
Her ex has been retired now for over five years and her ex and her kids are reluctant to give her the money because they are afraid she will just spend it.
I really believe she has forgotten about this nest egg over the years.
She could really use the money and if she spends it and enjoys herself, good for her.
I am going out to see her in a few weeks and I’m wondering: should I bring this up to her, or should I leave it alone and let her family decide when the time is right to give her what's overdue?
– Wondering Sibling
Dear Sibling: I’m wondering how you and her kids know about your sister’s nest egg when she doesn’t, but yes – I think you should bring this up.
Her other family members will likely accuse you of overstepping, but I agree with you that if your sister has money coming to her, then she should receive it.
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