u/Dependent-Capital463

Hired IL concrete contractor for large walkway and patio concrete project at my house for 15k approx.

He wrapped up and told me it will cost an additional $500 because during the excavation phase, they had to remove a large underground stump that took 2 hours to remove.

He also said he will just take 300 for it if I give me him cash.

I had no idea there was a stump there or even a tree there in the past. He told me a day later about it and never took a picture of the stump or anything.

And he brought it up to me AFTER they damaged my internet underground line and my window aluminum flashing (I made previous post about this).

In my contract it states “Remove and dispose the existing earth. Any additional thickness or reinforcement may incur additional charges.”

I feel suspicious that he bought up this potentially imaginary stump to get out of paying for my window and cable repair. If I ran that company I would tell my customer about the extra charge asap and take pictures.

Thoughts?

I stand to receive 500k from a family member through inheritance.

I currently have 26 years left on my mortgage (owe 325k, 4.1 interest rate)

I want to fund my 529 plan for college for my one year child (2000 current balance).

My wife and I both have a great pension when we retire that will set us up for retirement already.

Should I pay off my mortgage?

Or just I put all that money into VOO and forgot it? Or maybe something safer like SCHD?

Thank for any advice.

I stand to receive 500k from a family member through inheritance.

I currently have 26 years left on my mortgage (owe 325k, 4.1 interest rate)

I want to fund my 529 plan for college for my one year child (2000 current balance).

My wife and I both have a great pension when we retire that will set us up for retirement already.

Should I pay off my mortgage?

Or just I put all that money into VOO and forgot it? Or maybe something safer like SCHD?

Thank for any advice.