I would not only talk to a financial advisor but also an accountant. What are the tax consequences on geting this money? What taxes will you have to pay on it? Do you have to take it in a lump sum or can you recieve it over a course of time? Like have this year and half next year...even if you are in the 15% tax bracket you'll have to pay $37.5K on $250K...if you don't need the money right now what about your future? When will you retire? Before investing the money you need to think about when you will need the money and what kind of risks you are willing to take on it.