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
Ways to Supplement Your Medicare Coverage
There are numerous ways to supplement your Medicare insurance coverage. This article helps you explore your options.
Coaches
Coaches have helped you your whole life, in ways big and small. We'd like to be one of them.
What to Do When You Lose Your Wallet
Ever lost your wallet? Frustrating. Here’s what you can do to keep yourself safe.
Good Health is Good Business
Good employee health can be great for the company’s bottom line.
Medicare Advantage Plans (Medicare Part C)
Medicare Part C allows you to choose a Medicare Advantage plan. This article will help you decide if it's right for you.
Tax & Estate Strategies for Married LGBTQ+ Couples
Learn how to maximize your tax and estate strategy as a married member of the LGBTQ+ community.
IRA Withdrawals that Escape the 10% Tax Penalty
The list of IRA withdrawals that may be taken without incurring a 10% early penalty has grown.
Protection Against Uninsured Drivers
You’re hit by an uninsured driver. Now what? Are you protected against financial losses?
Please Leave Home Without It
Concerns over identity theft continue to grow, especially with data breaches at major companies and financial institutions.
View all articles 
Should I Buy or Lease an Auto?
Compare the true costs of buying versus leasing a vehicle to find the better fit for you.
Comparing Investments
Compare two different scenarios side by side to see how they stack up over time.
What Is the Dividend Yield?
Calculate the dividend yield of a holding and see what that means for income over time.
Credit Card Payoff
Find out how long it may take to pay off a credit card balance and what it costs in interest.
How Compound Interest Works
Explore how compound interest can grow your money over time with this interactive tool.
Taxable vs. Tax-Deferred Savings
Compare how the same contribution grows differently in taxable versus tax-deferred accounts.
View all calculators
Dreaming Up an Active Retirement
When you retire, how will you treat your next chapter?
Should I Invest in Gold?
Learning more about gold and its history may help you decide whether it has a place in your portfolio.
Forecast
This short video helps explain why markets can be as unpredictable as the weather.
The Real Cost of a Vacation Home
What if instead of buying that vacation home, you invested the money?
Jane Bond: Infiltrating the Market
Agent Jane Bond is on the case, cracking the code on bonds.
Suddenly Single: 3 Steps to Take Now
Have you found yourself suddenly single? Here are 3 steps to take right now.