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
Retirement and Quality of Life
Asking the right questions about how you can save money for retirement without sacrificing your quality of life.
The Latte Lie and Other Myths
Check out this video to begin separating fact from fiction.
Suddenly Single: 3 Steps to Take Now
Have you found yourself suddenly single? Here are 3 steps to take right now.
Tax Rules When Selling Your Home
The tax rules governing profits you realize from the sale of your home have changed in recent years.
Test Your Estate Strategy Knowledge
Estate management can help ensure that your assets are transferred according to your wishes while managing tax issues.
The Pros and Cons of an NUA Strategy
Learn the advantages of a Net Unrealized Appreciation strategy with this helpful article.
Diversification, Patience, and Consistency
Three important factors when it comes to your financial life.
Understanding Qualified Charitable Distributions
Use this handy, informative article to help your clients understand Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs).
Intellectual Property and Your Estate
Do you have intellectual property? Consider how you might include your IP into your estate strategy in this detailed article.
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How Much Home Can I Afford?
Estimate how much home may fit within your budget based on income and expenses.
IRA Income
Estimate the potential monthly income your IRA balance could generate in retirement.
How Long Will Your Money Last?
See how long a lump sum of savings could last based on your withdrawal rate and return.
Annuity Comparison
Compare annuity options to see how each one could affect your long-term income outlook.
Rent vs Buy Calculator
Compare the long-term financial outcomes of renting versus buying a home.
Debt vs. Investment
Weigh the potential outcomes of paying off debt versus directing those dollars elsewhere.
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Extended Care: A Patchwork of Possibilities
What is your plan for health care during retirement?
Retirement Plan Detectives
Watch this fun video for tips on how to search for missing money.
Social Security: By the Numbers
Here are five facts about Social Security that might surprise you.
Saving for College 101
Here's a crash course on saving for college.
The Richest Man in Babylon
In good times and bad, consistently saving a percentage of your income is a sound financial practice.
Safeguard Your Digital Estate
If you died, what would happen to your email archives, social profiles and online accounts?
