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
Bull & Bear Markets: A Timeline
This helpful infographic will define bull and bear markets, as well as give a historical overview.
How Much Do I Need To Retire?
How much is enough to retire? It depends on your lifestyle, timeline, and more. Use this calculator to get a personalized est
The Average American Budget
Learn about the average American budget in this fun and interactive piece.
The Anatomy of an Index
The S&P 500 represents a large portion of the value of the U.S. equity market, it may be worth understanding.
Questions to Ask About Medicare
Take the guesswork out of your IEP or SEP with this helpful article.
Silver Sneakers 101
Medicare’s popular program, offering free gym membership and health education.
Systematic Withdrawals in Retirement
Taking regular, periodic withdrawals during retirement can be quite problematic.
Critical Estate Documents
Sound estate management includes creating financial and healthcare documents. Here's an inside look.
Choose Your Own Retirement Adventure
Retirement is one of the greatest adventures you’ll have. Which retirement adventure will you choose?
View all articles 
Comparing Mortgage Terms
Compare different mortgage term lengths side by side to find the option that fits your budget.
Lifetime of Earnings
Estimate how much you may earn over your working years based on your current 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.
What's Your MPG?
Calculate your vehicle's fuel efficiency and see what you're spending on gas annually.
Debt vs. Investment
Weigh the potential outcomes of paying off debt versus directing those dollars elsewhere.
Credit Card Payoff
Find out how long it may take to pay off a credit card balance and what it costs in interest.
View all calculators
What to Do When You Lose Your Wallet
Ever lost your wallet? Frustrating. Here’s what you can do to keep yourself safe.
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.
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.
Surprise! You’ve Got Money!
Here’s a quick guide to checking to see if you have unclaimed money.
RE: Retirement
How does your ideal retirement differ from reality, and what can we do to better align the two?
Rightsizing for Retirement
What does your home really cost?