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
Acres of Diamonds
In life it often happens that the answers to our most pressing questions are right in our own backyards.
The Richest Man in Babylon
In good times and bad, consistently saving a percentage of your income is a sound financial practice.
Personal Finance Tips for Military Families
Military families face unique challenges, making personal finance even more critical.
Your Emergency Fund: How Much Is Enough?
Having an emergency fund may help alleviate the stress and worry associated with a financial crisis.
Strategies for Managing Student Loan Debt
Five strategies for managing your student debt.
Life and Death of a Twenty Dollar Bill
How long does a $20 bill last?
A Home Insurance Claim: To File Or Not To File
Learn when it may not make sense to file a claim on your home insurance.
Eight Mistakes That Can Upend Your Retirement
There are common mistakes you can avoid when saving for retirement.
Steps to Protecting a Child with Disabilities
Planning for children with special needs can be confusing but by working together, we can help navigate those challenges.
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Roth 401(k) vs. Traditional 401(k)
Compare Roth and traditional 401(k) options to see which may work better for your situation.
Debt-to-Income Ratio Calculator
Calculate your debt-to-income ratio to understand how lenders may view your financial health.
Student Loan Payoff Calculator: Extra Payments Can Save You
See how extra payments toward your student loans could shorten your payoff timeline.
Should I Buy or Lease an Auto?
Compare the true costs of buying versus leasing a vehicle to find the better fit for you.
Wedding Budget Calculator
Estimate total wedding costs and see how different choices affect your overall budget.
How Long Will Your Money Last?
See how long a lump sum of savings could last based on your withdrawal rate and return.
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The Richest Man in Babylon
In good times and bad, consistently saving a percentage of your income is a sound financial practice.
Jane Bond: Infiltrating the Market
Agent Jane Bond is on the case, cracking the code on bonds.
The Rule of 72
Do you know how long it may take for your investments to double in value? The Rule of 72 is a quick way to figure it out.
Should You Tap Retirement Savings to Fund College?
There are three things to consider before dipping into retirement savings to pay for college.
When Special Care Is Needed: The Special Needs Trust
A special needs trust helps care for a special needs child when you’re gone.
The Other Sure Thing
A new LIMRA study shows that 40% of Americans believe the death of a primary wage earner would cause financial challenges.