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
Countering Counterfeit Currency
Combating counterfeiting remains core to preserving the integrity of the nation’s money.
A Path to Serenity and Smart Money Choices
An article about meditation, mindfulness, and financial well-being.
How Income Taxes Work
A quick look at how federal income taxes work.
Orchestrating Your Retirement Accounts
Getting the instruments of your retirement to work in concert may go far in realizing the retirement you imagine.
Roth IRA for Kids
Learn about the benefits and requirements of opening a Roth IRA for kids.
How to Invest in LGBTQ+ Friendly Companies
This article allows those who support LGBTQ+ interests to explore the possibilities of Socially Responsible Investing.
Do Our Biases Affect Our Financial Choices?
Even the most seasoned investors have biases affecting their financial choices.
The Five Basics of Financial Literacy
How literate are you when it comes to your finances? Brush up with these five basics.
Preparing for the Expected
You can plan ahead to protect yourself and your family against the financial consequences of deteriorating health.
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Student Loan Refinance Calculator
Compare your current student loan terms to a potential refinance to see if it makes sense.
Bi-Weekly Mortgage Payments
See how switching to bi-weekly mortgage payments could reduce interest and shorten your loan.
Should I Buy or Lease an Auto?
Compare the true costs of buying versus leasing a vehicle to find the better fit for you.
How Compound Interest Works
Explore how compound interest can grow your money over time with this interactive tool.
Monthly Budget
Track your monthly income and expenses to get a clearer view of your cash flow.
Emergency Fund Calculator
Find out how large your emergency fund should be based on your monthly expenses.
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Finding the Balance
The sandwich generation faces unique challenges. For many, meeting needs is a matter of finding a balance.
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 Richest Man in Babylon
In good times and bad, consistently saving a percentage of your income is a sound financial practice.
The Fed and How It Got That Way
Here is a quick history of the Federal Reserve and an overview of what it does.
Jane Bond: Scaling the Ladder
Agent Jane Bond is on the case, uncovering the mystery of bond laddering.
Dog Bites and Homeowners Insurance
Reviewing coverage options is just one thing responsible pet parents can do to help look out for their dogs.