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 Do Your Taxes Pay For?
Here's a breakdown of how the federal government spends your tax money.
Debt vs. Investment
Weigh the potential outcomes of paying off debt versus directing those dollars elsewhere.
Annuity Comparison
Compare annuity options to see how each one could affect your long-term income outlook.
Problems with Probate
Probate can be a completely public process, or it can be managed to include as little information as possible.
A House Divided
By understanding a few key concepts during a divorce, you may be able to avoid common pitfalls.
When to Self-Insure
Choosing to bear the financial burden of an adverse event is called self-insuring. Do you know what that entails?
Separating the Signal From the Noise
A good professional provides important guidance and insight through the years.
Four Steps to Valuing an Estate
Determining the value of your estate, or for someone who has passed away, can be a complex undertaking.
Understanding Homeowners Insurance
Purchasing homeowners insurance is critical for protecting your home.
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Taxable vs. Tax-Deferred Savings
Compare how the same contribution grows differently in taxable versus tax-deferred accounts.
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 Rate Would I Need to Earn on My Savings?
Work backwards from your savings goal to find the rate of return you'd need to get there.
Student Loan Payoff Calculator: Extra Payments Can Save You
See how extra payments toward your student loans could shorten your payoff timeline.
The Power of 401k Catch-Ups
See how catch-up contributions after age 50 could significantly boost your retirement balance.
Credit Card Payoff
Find out how long it may take to pay off a credit card balance and what it costs in interest.
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Suddenly Single: 3 Steps to Take Now
Have you found yourself suddenly single? Here are 3 steps to take right now.
Bursting the Bubble
Tulips were the first, but they won’t be the last. What forms a “bubble” and what causes them to burst?
The Real Cost of a Vacation Home
What if instead of buying that vacation home, you invested the money?
Once Upon a Goal
Do you know how to set up your financial goals for success? This knight does.
Rightsizing for Retirement
What does your home really cost?
Encore Careers: Push Your Boundaries
Ready for retirement? Find out why many are considering encore careers and push your boundaries into something more, here.