"Made a wad" is a phrase commonly used to describe accumulating a large sum of money. However, there are many synonyms one can use to express the same idea. "Struck it rich" suggests sudden and unexpected wealth. "Hit the jackpot" emphasizes the element of luck, as in winning a lottery or an unexpected sum of money. "Made a killing" implies profiting from a business deal or investment. "Racked up a fortune" implies accumulation over time and hard work. "Banked a bundle" suggests a large amount of money that has been saved. "Built a nest egg" implies saving for the future. Using these synonyms can add variety and interest to your writing or conversation.