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
Historical Inflation
See how the purchasing power of a dollar has changed over time due to inflation.
Should I Buy or Lease an Auto?
Compare the true costs of buying versus leasing a vehicle to find the better fit for you.
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.
Avoiding Cognitive Decline
Try these activities to keep your brain sharp.
Prevent a Rift: Money Tips for Newlyweds
Couples may be able to head off many of the problems in a marriage that money can cause.
Medicare At 65+
65 or older? It may be time to enroll in Medicare. Read to learn if you’re eligible.
Succeeding at Business Succession
There are a number of reasons for business owners to consider a business succession plan sooner rather than later.
Grantor Retained Annuity Trusts (GRATs)
Explaining Grantor Retained Annuity Trusts (GRATs) and their benefit to estate strategy.
Alternative Investments - Going Mainstream
Alternative investments are going mainstream for accredited investors. It’s critical to sort through the complexity.
View all articles 
Social Security Tax Estimator
Estimate how much of your Social Security benefit may be subject to federal income tax.
Debt vs. Investment
Weigh the potential outcomes of paying off debt versus directing those dollars elsewhere.
Inflation & Retirement
See how inflation over time could affect the purchasing power of your retirement income.
Student Loan Refinance Calculator
Compare your current student loan terms to a potential refinance to see if it makes sense.
Debt-to-Income Ratio Calculator
Calculate your debt-to-income ratio to understand how lenders may view your financial health.
What's Your MPG?
Calculate your vehicle's fuel efficiency and see what you're spending on gas annually.
View all calculators
The Other Sure Thing
A new LIMRA study shows that 40% of Americans believe the death of a primary wage earner would cause financial challenges.
Rightsizing for Retirement
What does your home really cost?
The Fed and How It Got That Way
Here is a quick history of the Federal Reserve and an overview of what it does.
Safeguard Your Digital Estate
If you died, what would happen to your email archives, social profiles and online accounts?
A New Way to Look at Your Bucket List
Bucket lists don’t have to be for tomorrow.
The Facts About Income Tax
Millions faithfully file their 1040 forms each April. But some things about federal income taxes may surprise you.