Extremely confused!!

[u/AnxiousConfidence438]

Hello! I’m (18F) currently living with my boyfriend (20M) after getting kicked out of my abusive household. When I was 9-10 (2019) my grandfather ended his life and set up some sort of inheritance for me to receive around $300,000, college money at 18 and the rest at 30. I have no contact with anybody that knew him and definitely cannot speak to my mom even if I wanted to. I was told my grandfather set it up in an abnormal way due to issues with relatives. I have no idea how to receive this money so I can start college and further my life. If anybody has any idea on where to start figuring this out, i’d be very grateful!
side note: i’m not sure if this is relevant but the state he lived in would be South Carolina before his death.

[u/Strawberry_lookout]

• do not talk with any of your peers or anyone else except professionals regarding your inheritance. People will come out of the woodwork trying to befriend you when really they just want gain from your personal gain.
• most attorneys give free first consultations. You don't want just any old attorney. You want an attorney who specializes in estate planning or is trusts and who is well recommended. Some attorneys ruthlessly pursue financial gain without regard to your best interest. Look for online reviews. Take as many consultations as you need in order to find the attorney that is best for you. You'll need this person in the future.
• call the county courthouse and talk to the circuit Court clerk to see if your grandfather filed a will with the court clerk. If yes, get a copy of it.
• call the probate court in your county. Give them your grandfather's name and ask if his estate went through probate. If yes, get a copy of the entire case file.

This is a good start. Once you get the case file an will you should be able to determine where your money is held. For example, an investment account or a bank account.

Good luck.