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
Do Your Kids Know The Value of a Silver Spoon?
You taught them how to read and how to ride a bike, but have you taught your children how to manage money?
Should I Accept a Free Credit Lock?
Learn the ins and outs of credit locks, freezes, and more.
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.
When to Self-Insure
Choosing to bear the financial burden of an adverse event is called self-insuring. Do you know what that entails?
Conquering Retirement Challenges for Women
Looking ahead can help you conquer these unique obstacles.
Helpful Retirement Strategies for Women
Learn how to address the challenges that women face when planning for retirement.
Buying a Home
A look at what you need to think about when buying a home.
2026 Tax Law Changes
The One Big Beautiful Bill is now law. Here's a clear breakdown of what changed, what's temporary, and what it means for you.
What Can You Buy With 529 Distributions?
This article can be a helpful guide when beginning to prepare for education expenses.
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Federal Capital Gains Tax Estimator
Estimate your potential federal capital gains tax liability on the sale of an asset.
Student Loan Payoff Calculator: Extra Payments Can Save You
See how extra payments toward your student loans could shorten your payoff timeline.
Debt-to-Income Ratio Calculator
Calculate your debt-to-income ratio to understand how lenders may view your financial health.
Taxable vs. Tax-Deferred Savings
Compare how the same contribution grows differently in taxable versus tax-deferred accounts.
Comparing Mortgage Terms
Compare different mortgage term lengths side by side to find the option that fits your budget.
Wedding Budget Calculator
Estimate total wedding costs and see how different choices affect your overall budget.
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How Cash Apps Work
Peer-to-peer payment apps are one of the newest ways to send money.
Should You Invest in Exchange Traded Funds?
There are thousands of ETFs available. Should you invest in them?
The Wild West of Data Theft
Learn about cyber liability insurance in this entertaining video.
Coaches
Coaches have helped you your whole life, in ways big and small. We'd like to be one of them.
Risk Tolerance: What’s Your Style?
Learn about what risk tolerance really means in this helpful and insightful video.
The Power of Compound Interest
Learn how to harness the power of compound interest for your investments.