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
Saving Early & Letting Time Work for You
See how starting early—not saving more—can be the most powerful move you make for your long-term future.
Surprise! You’ve Got Money!
Here’s a quick guide to checking to see if you have unclaimed money.
How Can I Save a Million Dollars?
See what it takes in monthly contributions and time to reach a million-dollar savings goal.
Preparing for the Expected
You can plan ahead to protect yourself and your family against the financial consequences of deteriorating health.
Teen Drinking and Your Liability
Drinking may be a “rite of passage” for teens, but when it occurs in your home you may be held responsible for their actions.
Building Your Legacy
A four-step framework for building a personal legacy.
Please Leave Home Without It
Concerns over identity theft continue to grow, especially with data breaches at major companies and financial institutions.
Mastering Mobile Lingo
Do you understand these common mobile slang terms?
Traditional vs. Roth IRA
One or the other? Perhaps both traditional and Roth IRAs can play a part in your retirement plans.
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What Rate Would I Need to Earn on My Savings?
Work backwards from your savings goal to find the rate of return you'd need to get there.
How Compound Interest Works
Explore how compound interest can grow your money over time with this interactive tool.
What Is the Dividend Yield?
Calculate the dividend yield of a holding and see what that means for income over time.
Debt-to-Income Ratio Calculator
Calculate your debt-to-income ratio to understand how lenders may view your financial health.
Comparing Mortgage Terms
Compare different mortgage term lengths side by side to find the option that fits your budget.
Simple 401k
See how increasing your 401(k) contributions today could affect your balance at retirement.
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Retirement Accounts When You Change Your Job
This video explores what to do with retirement accounts when you move on from your job.
The Latte Lie and Other Myths
Check out this video to begin separating fact from fiction.
Behavioral Finance
An amusing and whimsical look at behavioral finance best practices for investors.
Charitable Giving: Smart from the Heart
Do you have causes that you want to support with donations?
Jane Bond: Infiltrating the Market
Agent Jane Bond is on the case, cracking the code on bonds.
Leaving Your Lasting Legacy
Want to do more with your wealth? You might want to consider creating a charitable foundation.