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
Credit Card Payoff
Find out how long it may take to pay off a credit card balance and what it costs in interest.
Social Security Tax Estimator
Estimate how much of your Social Security benefit may be subject to federal income tax.
Counteracting Capital Gains with Tax-Loss Harvesting
You may have heard the phrase "tax-loss harvesting." A financial professional may be able to provide some guidance.
What You Should Do About Insurance Following a Divorce
In the face of divorce, making changes to insurance coverage may be overlooked.
Perception vs. Reality
Learn how to coordinate your retirement accounts like an orchestra to help maximize your retirement strategy.
Breaking Down the Parts of Medicare
Medicare is broken down into four specific parts—but what do they mean? This article will help you understand each piece.
Your Emergency Fund: How Much Is Enough?
Having an emergency fund may help alleviate the stress and worry associated with a financial crisis.
Helpful Retirement Strategies for Women
Learn how to address the challenges that women face when planning for retirement.
Global vs. International: What’s the Difference?
International funds invest in non-U.S. markets, while global funds may invest in U.S. stocks alongside non-U.S. stocks.
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Debt vs. Investment
Weigh the potential outcomes of paying off debt versus directing those dollars elsewhere.
The Power of 401k Catch-Ups
See how catch-up contributions after age 50 could significantly boost your retirement balance.
Student Loan Refinance Calculator
Compare your current student loan terms to a potential refinance to see if it makes sense.
Credit Card Payoff
Find out how long it may take to pay off a credit card balance and what it costs in interest.
Social Security Tax Estimator
Estimate how much of your Social Security benefit may be subject to federal income tax.
Lifetime of Earnings
Estimate how much you may earn over your working years based on your current income.
View all calculators
Forecast
This short video helps explain why markets can be as unpredictable as the weather.
Safeguard Your Digital Estate
If you died, what would happen to your email archives, social profiles and online accounts?
It May Be Time for a Financial Checkup
It’s never a bad time to speak with your financial professional about changes in your situation.
The Wild West of Data Theft
Learn about cyber liability insurance in this entertaining video.
Choosing a Mortgage
Selecting a mortgage isn't an easy process. Get a better understanding of how professionals make the right decisions.
Should You Invest in Exchange Traded Funds?
There are thousands of ETFs available. Should you invest in them?