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
Money Draining Food Myths
These food myths will really put a drain on your wallet.
What To Do When Your Income Reaches 7 Figures
Preserve your high net worth with these foundational tips.
Roth 401(k) vs. Traditional 401(k)
Compare Roth and traditional 401(k) options to see which may work better for your situation.
How Big is Money?
Learn a little about worldwide currency in this fun infographic
The Half Million Dollar Baby
The true cost of raising a child may be far more than you expect.
Estimating the Cost of College
This worksheet can help you estimate the costs of a four-year college program.
Countering Counterfeit Currency
Combating counterfeiting remains core to preserving the integrity of the nation’s money.
Tax & Estate Strategies for Married LGBTQ+ Couples
Learn how to maximize your tax and estate strategy as a married member of the LGBTQ+ community.
A Meal for All Generations
When it comes to generational differences, knowing the facts can be difficult.
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The Power of 401k Catch-Ups
See how catch-up contributions after age 50 could significantly boost your retirement balance.
Inflation & Retirement
See how inflation over time could affect the purchasing power of your retirement income.
Should I Buy or Lease an Auto?
Compare the true costs of buying versus leasing a vehicle to find the better fit for you.
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.
Federal Capital Gains Tax Estimator
Estimate your potential federal capital gains tax liability on the sale of an asset.
Student Loan Refinance Calculator
Compare your current student loan terms to a potential refinance to see if it makes sense.
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Estate Management 101
A will may be only one of the documents you need—and one factor to consider—when it comes to managing your estate.
4 Elements of an Estate Strategy
Learn about the importance of having an estate strategy in this helpful and informative video.
The Wild West of Data Theft
Learn about cyber liability insurance in this entertaining video.
Exit Strategies of the Rich and Famous
Estate conservation is too important to put off. Do you have a smart exit strategy?
It Was the Best of Times, It Was the Worst of Times
All about how missing the best market days (or the worst!) might affect your portfolio.
What You Need to Know About Social Security
Every so often, you'll hear about Social Security benefits running out. But is there truth to the fears, or is it all hype?