When Bill Gates passes away, the future of his vast fortune will undoubtedly raise many questions. As one of the wealthiest people in the world, Gates’ $107 billion net worth, as of now, places him 15th on Forbes’ rich list. His career as the co-founder of Microsoft, alongside childhood friend Paul Allen, has made him one of the most influential tech moguls in history. But when it comes to the inheritance of his wealth, Gates has made it clear that his fortune won’t go entirely to his children.
Although Gates is only 69 years old, he has already shared that his three children—Jennifer (28), Rory (25), and Phoebe (22)—won’t be inheriting the bulk of his fortune. In a 2017 Reddit Ask Me Anything session, he revealed that they would each receive a modest $10 million, a sum that might seem huge to most, but is a fraction of his multi-billion-dollar fortune. Gates has made it clear that he wants his children to work and find their own paths rather than rely on their inheritance.
Interestingly, his ex-wife Melinda took a substantial portion of their fortune during their 2021 divorce, which saw her receiving $76 billion—making it one of the largest divorce settlements in history. Meanwhile, Gates himself has focused on how he can continue to use his wealth to create a legacy that helps others, especially through his philanthropic efforts.
The biggest recipient of Gates’ wealth after his passing will likely be the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. Founded in 2000, the charity has been dedicated to improving healthcare, reducing poverty, and expanding educational opportunities worldwide. Gates has repeatedly emphasized his commitment to giving away the majority of his fortune, vowing to donate “virtually all” of his wealth. His goal is to continue supporting global causes that align with his values, even after he is gone.
Gates’ approach to his fortune contrasts with the typical trajectory of many billionaires, who pass down their wealth to family members. Instead, Gates has prioritized global philanthropy, focusing on making a lasting difference through charitable donations rather than perpetuating generational wealth. It’s a reminder that for some, leaving a legacy of giving can be more important than leaving behind vast sums for their heirs.
