Bill Gates Reveals How Much of His Over $100 Billion Net Worth His 3 Kids Will Inherit When He Dies

Phoebe Gates, Bill Gates, Jennifer Gates, Melinda French Gates and Rory Gates

Bill Gates has disclosed that his three children will inherit less than 1% of his total wealth, despite the enormous size of his fortune. The Microsoft co-founder, 69, explained that he believes it would not benefit his children to receive a large inheritance and instead wants them to forge their own paths.

Gates, who shares daughters Jennifer, 28, and Phoebe, 22, and son Rory, 25, with ex-wife Melinda French Gates, stated that although his children received a strong upbringing and quality education, they will each receive a modest portion of his estate. With his net worth currently estimated at $102.2 billion, each child’s inheritance would still amount to over $1 billion.

Ranked as the thirteenth richest person in the world, Gates emphasized that he has no interest in turning his wealth into a dynasty. He said he is not expecting his children to take over Microsoft or follow in his footsteps. Instead, he wants them to create their own identities and successes, independent of the fortune he amassed.

“I want to give them a chance to have their own earnings and success, be significant and not overshadowed by the incredible luck and good fortune I had,” Gates said. He also noted that it was important to communicate his philosophy early in his children’s lives, so they would understand his values and not mistake the decision for a lack of love or support.

Bill Gates in April 2025.

“You don’t want your kids to ever be confused about your support for them and your love for them,” he said. He explained that he always intended to treat his children equally and provide them with exceptional opportunities, while reserving the bulk of his wealth for philanthropic purposes through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.

Gates, who has long pledged to give away the majority of his wealth to causes aimed at reducing global suffering and improving lives, confirmed that he is currently donating at a rate of $9 billion per year. He expects that within the next two decades, he will no longer be one of the world’s wealthiest individuals.

“I have more than enough money for my own consumption,” he said. “I’m getting myself to go down the list, and I’ll be proud when I fall off altogether.”

Years earlier, Gates announced plans to donate “virtually all” of his wealth to the foundation he co-founded in 2000. He reaffirmed that commitment in a recent message, stating, “I have an obligation to return my resources to society in ways that have the greatest impact for reducing suffering and improving lives.”