Adjusting to new salary

Debt

35M. I’ve been in some form of credit card debt (at times exceeding $50k - a cycle of transferring debt on different 0% interest balance transfers for X months) for about 8 years.

My bank account has always revolved around $0 my entire adult life.

I’ve worked the problem and over the last 2 years have worked the debt down to $12k (0% APR for about 12 months) and have had a dramatic salary increase (+ dual income) over the last 2 years. My checking account is now higher than my collective debt.

I’ve essentially climbed out of debt with an income of $150k. I got a promo this morning and I’m now pulling in $186k with a temporary increase over the next 2 years of $78k/year as travel incentives (own a place that’s vacant in another state and am renting a place). My expenses are also down with my partner in the picture.

What do I do with my money now? I’ve never had it before. I’ve put in 12% into my 401k for years while paying off the debt and have a decent nest egg there. I am planning on maybe setting aside $10k as an emergency fund before I try to invest.

Do I put things in CDs? Bonds? High yield savings account? Can I set up investments on a portfolio like my 401k? I can invest in individual companies on fidelity… do I need to hire someone to manage a portfolio?

Feel like this is a first world problem but I am clueless with what to do with my money so I don’t need to work the hours I’ve done for years. Thanks.

Posted Apr 8, 2026, 2:54 AM UTC

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