<prompt> Human: Unfortunately my mother is at the losing end of a battle with cancer and last weekend she sat my brother and I down to explain what would be happening in her will. She has explained that we will be getting at least 70k each from a 401k that she had from the company she worked for 35 years and her savings account and funds beyond that would be also be split between us. I know to look in other areas of PF for advice of what to do after I have the money. I am more concerned with the processes beforehand as in obtaining it from the 401k and tax implications from gaining such a large sum of money. Any words of wisdom or experience would be greatly appreciated.Thanks  <response>: Two things: One before she dies and one after.1. Make sure shes up-to-date on the beneficiary designation on the 401k account and any other financial accounts. Account beneficiary designation overrides any wills.2. If you acquire an inherited 401k you can withdraw the RMD over 5 years. This should lessen the tax impact vs. taking all out in one year. 