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
Once Upon a Goal
Do you know how to set up your financial goals for success? This knight does.
Budget Check Up: Tax Time Is the Right Time
Tax preparation may be the perfect time to give the household budget a check-up.
The Many Ways to Measure Inflation
Different inflation indexes may tell different stories. Here's what that could mean for you.
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?
Choose Your Own Retirement Adventure
Retirement is one of the greatest adventures you’ll have. Which retirement adventure will you choose?
Should I Accept a Free Credit Lock?
Learn the ins and outs of credit locks, freezes, and more.
Is a SEP-IRA Right for Your Business?
For some, the idea of establishing a retirement strategy evokes worries about complicated reporting and administration.
Good Health is Good Business
Good employee health can be great for the company’s bottom line.
The Pros and Cons of an NUA Strategy
Learn the advantages of a Net Unrealized Appreciation strategy with this helpful article.
View all articles 
Wedding Budget Calculator
Estimate total wedding costs and see how different choices affect your overall budget.
Student Loan Payoff Calculator: Extra Payments Can Save You
See how extra payments toward your student loans could shorten your payoff timeline.
Emergency Fund Calculator
Find out how large your emergency fund should be based on your monthly expenses.
How Can I Save a Million Dollars?
See what it takes in monthly contributions and time to reach a million-dollar savings goal.
Comparing Mortgage Terms
Compare different mortgage term lengths side by side to find the option that fits your budget.
Credit Card Payoff
Find out how long it may take to pay off a credit card balance and what it costs in interest.
View all calculators
Social Security: By the Numbers
Here are five facts about Social Security that might surprise you.
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.
From Boats to Brokers
From the Dutch East India Company to Wall St., the stock market has a long and storied history.
When Do You Need a Will?
When do you need a will? The answer is easy: Right Now.
The Facts About Income Tax
Millions faithfully file their 1040 forms each April. But some things about federal income taxes may surprise you.
An Arm and a Leg
A visit to the hospital can be painful, for both your body and your wallet. Don't let it be more painful than it has to be.