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
The Average American Budget
Learn about the average American budget in this fun and interactive piece.
Exploring the Federal Student Grant Program
In this article, explore the benefits of the Federal Student Grant Program.
Financially Savvy at Six Figures
Help your clients with these practical steps to make the most of their six-figure income.
Four Reasons Millennials Need an Estate Strategy
Estate strategies for millennials may sound like less of a concern than retirement, but young adults should prepare now.
How to Invest in LGBTQ+ Friendly Companies
This article allows those who support LGBTQ+ interests to explore the possibilities of Socially Responsible Investing.
Insurance Needs Assessment: Married With Children
When you’re married and have children, insurance needs will be different.
TIPS for Inflation
If you are concerned about inflation and expect short-term interest rates may increase, TIPS could be worth considering.
Personal Finance Tips for Military Families
Military families face unique challenges, making personal finance even more critical.
4 Steps to Protecting a Child with Disabilities
Planning for a child with special needs can be complicated, confusing, and even overwhelming.
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Social Security Tax Estimator
Estimate how much of your Social Security benefit may be subject to federal income tax.
Debt-to-Income Ratio Calculator
Calculate your debt-to-income ratio to understand how lenders may view your financial health.
The Power of Interest - How Long Will it take My Money to Do
Use the Rule of 72 to estimate how long it takes your money to double at a given rate.
My Retirement Savings
See how your current savings rate and contributions may grow into retirement income.
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.
Federal Capital Gains Tax Estimator
Estimate your potential federal capital gains tax liability on the sale of an asset.
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Consider These 3 Things Before Driving Off the Lot
Here are 3 quick tips to keep in mind when buying or leasing your next vehicle.
The Power of Compound Interest
Learn how to harness the power of compound interest for your investments.
Saving for College 101
Here's a crash course on saving for college.
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.
Exit Strategies of the Rich and Famous
Estate conservation is too important to put off. Do you have a smart exit strategy?
Dog Bites and Homeowners Insurance
Reviewing coverage options is just one thing responsible pet parents can do to help look out for their dogs.
