Would you but DC cars with this money?

[SaturdaySpread]

DH died a few months ago and one of his deferred pensions had a life cover element that I didn't realise I was due, so I have a £25k lump sum more than I expected.

I don't "need" the money, the mortgage is paid off, I have a decent income of my own and mine and his other pensions will give me a comfortable retirement.

DC are both working full time. One has passed his test and is borrowing my car atm, the other is learning. They both have savings to buy "a car" but with this money could get something decent.

It feels like it could be a present to them from DH. OTOH DH and I both agreed that it's not always good to make life too easy for them. We both bought our own first cars and among our peers, it seemed that these who were given their first cars were more likely to write them off!

WWYD?

I think maybe losing your dad at 17 & 19 negates the making life too easy thing?

That's a lovely idea. I would do it.

I'd want to put it towards a housing deposit rather than a car, I think.

That sounds like a lovely thing to do for them.

Put it towards a house deposit. A car for £2-£3k is perfect for a newly passed driver.

@KidsAreMean

I'd want to put it towards a housing deposit rather than a car, I think.

Yes, I might be able to help them there too later. I know that's the sensible thing to do but I feel like I want to something frivolous with this money, which is most out of character for me

4 of my ds's have cars. All a bit battered already.
House deposit would be a longer legacy to their df...

I know that's the sensible thing to do but I feel like I want to something frivolous with this money

I totally understand this! You've all had a shit time - do something nice for you all.

It isn't the cost of the car for new drivers, but the cost of the insurance that hurts.

Another who would put most of it aside for a deposit.
I have young adults and they will find a way to get their first car, but, give them 5 years or so and they will appreciate the deposit a LOT more.

Of course, you could still buy something 'frivolous' with a bit of it..... concert tickets...season ticket to whoever their 'team' are...holiday maybe ?

So sorry for your loss. That is so young for your boys to lose their Dad, and you your DH