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
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.
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.
How Financial Professionals Are Compensated
Read this overview to learn how financial advisors are compensated.
Pay Yourself First
It sounds simple, but paying yourself first can really pay off.
What Do Your Taxes Pay For?
Here's a breakdown of how the federal government spends your tax money.
U.S. Personal Savings Rate
What can be learned from the savings rate?
Investment Challenges of the Affluent Investor
Affluent investors face unique challenges when putting together an investment strategy. Make sure you keep these in mind.
Choose Your Own Retirement Adventure
Retirement is one of the greatest adventures you’ll have. Which retirement adventure will you choose?
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IRA Income
Estimate the potential monthly income your IRA balance could generate in retirement.
Debt vs. Investment
Weigh the potential outcomes of paying off debt versus directing those dollars elsewhere.
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
College Savings
See how much you may need to save now to cover future college costs for your child.
Roth 401(k) vs. Traditional 401(k)
Compare Roth and traditional 401(k) options to see which may work better for your situation.
Monthly Budget
Track your monthly income and expenses to get a clearer view of your cash flow.
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Behavioral Finance
An amusing and whimsical look at behavioral finance best practices for investors.
Retirement Plan Detectives
Watch this fun video for tips on how to search for missing money.
Coaches
Coaches have helped you your whole life, in ways big and small. We'd like to be one of them.
Dog Bites and Homeowners Insurance
Reviewing coverage options is just one thing responsible pet parents can do to help look out for their dogs.
Risk Tolerance: What’s Your Style?
Learn about what risk tolerance really means in this helpful and insightful video.
Tuning Your Social Security Benefit
When should you take your Social Security benefit?