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
What If Your Kids Decide Against College?
Rising college costs prompt students to seek alternatives; 529 account funds can be used for other education options.
Capital Gains Tax When Selling Your Home
If your clients are buying or selling a home, use this to help them determine if they qualify for capital gains taxes.
The Big Pause
This handy interactive explains which essential government services are affected by a shutdown.
9 Facts About Retirement
Regardless of how you approach retirement, there are some things about it that might surprise you.
Insuring Your Business Against Cyber Liability
90% of small businesses in the U.S. don't protect their data from cyber attacks. Is your business at risk?
3 Estate Challenges for Blended Families
This article will help your clients with blended families think and prepare their estate strategy.
Preparing for the Expected
You can plan ahead to protect yourself and your family against the financial consequences of deteriorating health.
Find That Lost Retirement Account
With over 24 million “forgotten” 401(k) accounts, you may be surprised to learn of your unclaimed “found” money.
A Bucket Plan to Go with Your Bucket List
Longer, healthier living can put greater stress on retirement assets; the bucket approach may be one answer.
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Comparing Mortgage Terms
Compare different mortgage term lengths side by side to find the option that fits your budget.
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.
Assess Your Life Insurance Needs
Estimate how much life insurance coverage may be appropriate for your situation.
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
Taxable vs. Tax-Deferred Savings
Compare how the same contribution grows differently in taxable versus tax-deferred accounts.
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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.
Should You Invest in Exchange Traded Funds?
There are thousands of ETFs available. Should you invest in them?
From Boats to Brokers
From the Dutch East India Company to Wall St., the stock market has a long and storied history.
Top 5 Things to Tell Your Financial Pro
Here are the top 5 things your team may want to hear.
4 Elements of an Estate Strategy
Learn about the importance of having an estate strategy in this helpful and informative video.
Should You Tap Retirement Savings to Fund College?
There are three things to consider before dipping into retirement savings to pay for college.