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
New Retirement Contribution Limits for 2026
A look at the new retirement contribution limits from the IRS.
Financial Aid for Students 101
Help your college-bound child explore scholarships, grants, and more with this article on paying for higher education.
Saving for College 101
Here's a crash course on saving for college.
Good Health is Good Business
Good employee health can be great for the company’s bottom line.
A Decision Not Made Is Still a Decision
Investors who put off important investment decisions may face potential consequences to their future financial security.
Changing Unhealthy Behaviors
Five phases to changing unhealthy behaviors.
Do Our Biases Affect Our Financial Choices?
Even the most seasoned investors have biases affecting their financial choices.
The Pre-Retirement Checklist
This checklist can give you a quick snapshot of how prepared you are.
Your Changing Definition of Risk in Retirement
A change in your mindset during retirement may drive changes to your portfolio.
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Historical Inflation
See how the purchasing power of a dollar has changed over time due to inflation.
Wedding Budget Calculator
Estimate total wedding costs and see how different choices affect your overall budget.
Debt vs. Investment
Weigh the potential outcomes of paying off debt versus directing those dollars elsewhere.
How Long Will Your Money Last?
See how long a lump sum of savings could last based on your withdrawal rate and return.
How Much Home Can I Afford?
Estimate how much home may fit within your budget based on income and expenses.
College Savings
See how much you may need to save now to cover future college costs for your child.
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The Latte Lie and Other Myths
Check out this video to begin separating fact from fiction.
Charitable Giving: Smart from the Heart
Do you have causes that you want to support with donations?
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.
Emerging Market Opportunities
What are your options for investing in emerging markets?
How to Bake a Pie-R-A
Roth IRAs are tax-advantaged differently from traditional IRAs. Do you know how?
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.