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
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.
Tax Rules When Selling Your Home
The tax rules governing profits you realize from the sale of your home have changed in recent years.
Weighing the Benefits of Prepaid Debit Cards
It's important to understand the pros and cons when considering a prepaid debit card.
What's So Great About a Rollover?
Making a career move requires tough decisions, not the least of which is what to do with the funds in your retirement plan.
A Cheat Sheet for Sending Your Kid to College
Dropping off your child is loaded with emotions; here are a few tips for a smoother experience.
The Basics of Medicare
Learn all about Medicare basics in this informative and insightful article.
Intellectual Property Rocks in a New Digital Era
Intellectual property ownership and its implications for ordinary people and estates.
The Big Pause
This handy interactive explains which essential government services are affected by a shutdown.
Directors and Officers Liability Insurance
Not only can D&O insurance provide financial protection, but it can help improve an organization’s decision-making.
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Historical Inflation
See how the purchasing power of a dollar has changed over time due to inflation.
Monthly Budget
Track your monthly income and expenses to get a clearer view of your cash flow.
College Savings
See how much you may need to save now to cover future college costs for your child.
How Much Home Can I Afford?
Estimate how much home may fit within your budget based on income and expenses.
Lifetime of Earnings
Estimate how much you may earn over your working years based on your current income.
Debt vs. Investment
Weigh the potential outcomes of paying off debt versus directing those dollars elsewhere.
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Should You Tap Retirement Savings to Fund College?
There are three things to consider before dipping into retirement savings to pay for college.
The Cycle of Investing
Understanding the cycle of investing may help you avoid easy pitfalls.
From Boats to Brokers
From the Dutch East India Company to Wall St., the stock market has a long and storied history.
Timing Your Retirement
This short video illustrates the importance of understanding sequence of returns risk.
Safeguard Your Digital Estate
If you died, what would happen to your email archives, social profiles and online accounts?
Charitable Giving: Smart from the Heart
Do you have causes that you want to support with donations?
