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
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.
How to Read Your Credit Report
Solve a mystery while learning how important your credit report is with this story-driven interactive.
Making a Charitable Contribution
There are benefits and limitations when you decide to donate stock.
Introducing the 530A Accounts
An article explaining 530A Accounts.
Your Emergency Fund: How Much Is Enough?
Having an emergency fund may help alleviate the stress and worry associated with a financial crisis.
Pay Yourself First
It sounds simple, but paying yourself first can really pay off.
Conquering Retirement Challenges for Women
Looking ahead can help you conquer these unique obstacles.
How Financial Professionals Are Compensated
Read this overview to learn how financial advisors are compensated.
The ABC’s of Auto Insurance
What kind of auto insurance should you have? Do you know?
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Annuity Comparison
Compare annuity options to see how each one could affect your long-term income outlook.
The Power of 401k Catch-Ups
See how catch-up contributions after age 50 could significantly boost your retirement balance.
Bi-Weekly Mortgage Payments
See how switching to bi-weekly mortgage payments could reduce interest and shorten your loan.
Should I Buy or Lease an Auto?
Compare the true costs of buying versus leasing a vehicle to find the better fit for you.
Debt vs. Investment
Weigh the potential outcomes of paying off debt versus directing those dollars elsewhere.
Historical Inflation
See how the purchasing power of a dollar has changed over time due to inflation.
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Retirement Redefined
Around the country, attitudes about retirement are shifting.
From Boats to Brokers
From the Dutch East India Company to Wall St., the stock market has a long and storied history.
Coaches
Coaches have helped you your whole life, in ways big and small. We'd like to be one of them.
Suddenly Single: 3 Steps to Take Now
Have you found yourself suddenly single? Here are 3 steps to take right now.
A New Way to Look at Your Bucket List
Bucket lists don’t have to be for tomorrow.
Your DNA Test
A Detailed Needs Analysis (DNA) can be a simple way to care for loved ones, no matter what the future may hold.
