Social Security Survivor Benefits Case Study (Part 2): Unrealized Capital Gains | Nick DeVito, CFP

Social Security Survivor Benefits Case Study (Part 2): Unrealized Capital Gains | Nick DeVito, CFP

From Financial Planning Explained by financialplanningexplained

June 26, 2026 · 28 min · Episode 229

About this episode

The episode explores unrealized capital gains in the context of Social Security survivor benefits and financial planning strategies for surviving spouses.

This week on Financial Planning: Explained, host Michael Menninger, CFP®, and Nick DeVito, CFP®, continue their in-depth Social Security Survivor Benefits case study by exploring one of the most overlooked planning opportunities: unrealized capital gains. Building on Part 1, Mike and Nick examine how appreciated investments and unrealized capital gains can influence a surviving spouse's long-term financial strategy. Through a real-world financial planning scenario, they explain how inherited assets receive a step-up in cost basis, how capital gains are taxed after the death of a spouse, and why understanding these rules can help families minimize taxes while maximizing retirement income. Throughout the episode, they demonstrate how Social Security survivor benefits should never be viewed in isolation. Instead, they show how coordinating survivor benefits with investment portfolios, capital gains planning, tax-efficient withdrawals, and estate planning can create a more comprehensive and effective retirement strategy. Whether you're planning for retirement, helping aging parents, managing inherited investments, or simply looking to make smarter financial decisions, this episode…

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