Understanding Today’s Financial Environment
Welcome, I’m Michele McCarty-Woods, a Financial Advisor serving Des Moines, Iowa and the surrounding communities. I understand that individuals face unique challenges as they prepare for retirement. Let me help take the mystery out of preparing for today and tomorrow. Whether your goal is saving for retirement, college savings, or estate strategies, my personalized service focuses on your needs, wants, and financial goals and objectives.
With over 32 years of experience in the Financial and Insurance Industry, I have a wealth of knowledge and expertise. My company, Retirement Resources USA, Inc., is on Lake Panorama in Panora. My home, on the north end of the Wakonda Golf Course, is also available for meetings by appointment only. Simply call my office for details.
Outside of the office I am committed to my husband and four children and I love riding horses. I can help you address your needs of today and for many years to come and look forward to working with you through all stages of your life. It does not cost anything to meet with me, so please call.
Helpful Content
The Financial Literacy Crisis
Many Americans are operating their personal finances with only the barest minimum of knowledge.
How Long Will Your Money Last?
See how long a lump sum of savings could last based on your withdrawal rate and return.
Monthly Budget
Track your monthly income and expenses to get a clearer view of your cash flow.
Understanding Marginal Income Tax Brackets
An inside look at how marginal income tax brackets work.
A Cheat Sheet for Sending Your Kid to College
Dropping off your child is loaded with emotions; here are a few tips for a smoother experience.
Insurance Needs Assessment: For Empty Nesters and Retirees
Do your insurance needs stay the same when the nest empties?
Alternative Investments - Going Mainstream
Alternative investments are going mainstream for accredited investors. It’s critical to sort through the complexity.
Insurance Needs Assessment: When You're Young and Single
Even if you’re young and single, you should still consider protecting yourself.
Financial Strategies for Women
Some may leave their future to chance but in the world of finance, the effects of the "confidence gap" can be apparent.
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Should I Buy or Lease an Auto?
Compare the true costs of buying versus leasing a vehicle to find the better fit for you.
The Power of Interest - How Long Will it take My Money to Do
Use the Rule of 72 to estimate how long it takes your money to double at a given rate.
How Much Do I Need To Retire?
How much is enough to retire? It depends on your lifestyle, timeline, and more. Use this calculator to get a personalized est
What Rate Would I Need to Earn on My Savings?
Work backwards from your savings goal to find the rate of return you'd need to get there.
Inflation & Retirement
See how inflation over time could affect the purchasing power of your retirement income.
Annuity Comparison
Compare annuity options to see how each one could affect your long-term income outlook.
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Dreaming Up an Active Retirement
When you retire, how will you treat your next chapter?
Choosing a Mortgage
Selecting a mortgage isn't an easy process. Get a better understanding of how professionals make the right decisions.
Should You Ever Retire?
A growing number of Americans are pushing back the age at which they plan to retire. Or deciding not to retire at all.
Encore Careers: Push Your Boundaries
Ready for retirement? Find out why many are considering encore careers and push your boundaries into something more, here.
How to Retire Early
Retiring early sounds like a dream come true, but it’s important to take a look at the cold, hard facts.
A Fruitful Retirement: Social Security Benefit
Taking your Social Security benefits at the right time may help maximize your benefit.