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
Forecast
This short video helps explain why markets can be as unpredictable as the weather.
2026 Tax Law Changes
The One Big Beautiful Bill is now law. Here's a clear breakdown of what changed, what's temporary, and what it means for you.
You May Need to Make Estimated Tax Payments If…
Have income that isn’t subject to tax withholding? Or insufficient withholdings? You may have to pay estimated taxes.
9 Facts About Retirement
Regardless of how you approach retirement, there are some things about it that might surprise you.
Best-Performing Asset Classes
Bonds may outperform stocks one year only to have stocks rebound the next.
The Three Keys to a Great Password
Have fun and learn how to craft the perfect password with the help of this highly engaging infographic.
Strategies for Managing Student Loan Debt
Five strategies for managing your student debt.
Four Reasons Millennials Need an Estate Strategy
Estate strategies for millennials may sound like less of a concern than retirement, but young adults should prepare now.
Your Emergency Fund: How Much Is Enough?
Having an emergency fund may help alleviate the stress and worry associated with a financial crisis.
View all articles 
Debt vs. Investment
Weigh the potential outcomes of paying off debt versus directing those dollars elsewhere.
Social Security Tax Estimator
Estimate how much of your Social Security benefit may be subject to federal income tax.
The Power of Interest - How Long Will it take My Money to Do
Use the Rule of 72 to estimate how long it takes your money to double at a given rate.
Estimate Your RMD
Calculate your required minimum distribution amount based on your account balance and age.
Roth 401(k) vs. Traditional 401(k)
Compare Roth and traditional 401(k) options to see which may work better for your situation.
Long-Term-Care Needs
Estimate potential long-term care costs and what coverage may help address them.
View all calculators
The Business Cycle
How will you weather the ups and downs of the business cycle?
Working With A Financial Professional
A financial professional is an invaluable resource to help you untangle the complexities of whatever life throws at you.
Retirement Redefined
Around the country, attitudes about retirement are shifting.
When Markets React
When markets shift, experienced investors stick to their strategy.
Safeguard Your Digital Estate
If you died, what would happen to your email archives, social profiles and online accounts?
The Long Run: Women and Retirement
For women, retirement strategy is a long race. It’s helpful to know the route.