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 Economic Journey of Your Morning Coffee
Few contemplate the complex journey that brought their coffee from farm to kitchen table.
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?
Should I Accept a Free Credit Lock?
Learn the ins and outs of credit locks, freezes, and more.
To Catch a Thief
Having your identity stolen may result in financial loss plus the cost of trying to restore your good name.
What Is a Roth 401(k)?
Roth 401(k) plans combine features of traditional 401(k) plans with those of a Roth IRA.
Is Term Life Insurance for You?
Term insurance is the simplest form of life insurance. Here's how it works.
Social Security Fairness Act's New Chapter
Learn how the Social Security Fairness Act boosts benefits for eligible public sector workers and their families.
What's New for Social Security?
There have been a number of changes to Social Security that may affect you, especially if you are nearing retirement.
Succeeding at Business Succession
There are a number of reasons for business owners to consider a business succession plan sooner rather than later.
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What's Your MPG?
Calculate your vehicle's fuel efficiency and see what you're spending on gas annually.
Long-Term-Care Needs
Estimate potential long-term care costs and what coverage may help address them.
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.
Roth 401(k) vs. Traditional 401(k)
Compare Roth and traditional 401(k) options to see which may work better for your situation.
Comparing Investments
Compare two different scenarios side by side to see how they stack up over time.
Federal Capital Gains Tax Estimator
Estimate your potential federal capital gains tax liability on the sale of an asset.
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Tuning Your Social Security Benefit
When should you take your Social Security benefit?
The Facts About Income Tax
Millions faithfully file their 1040 forms each April. But some things about federal income taxes may 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.
A Bucket Plan to Go with Your Bucket List
A bucket plan can help you be better prepared for a comfortable retirement.
Bull and Bear Go To Market
Learn about the difference between bulls and bears—markets, that is!
Rightsizing for Retirement
What does your home really cost?
