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
A Penny Saved is Two Pennies Earned
Here are some simple and inexpensive energy-saving tips that may help you save money.
The Facts About Income Tax
Millions faithfully file their 1040 forms each April. But some things about federal income taxes may surprise you.
Life and Death of a Twenty Dollar Bill
How long does a $20 bill last?
Navigating Retirement Pitfalls
Why are they made again and again? Making sense of these errors in judgment.
Insurance Needs Assessment: For Empty Nesters and Retirees
Do your insurance needs stay the same when the nest empties?
When Does Your Personal Car Become a Commercial Vehicle?
At what point can you call a personal vehicle commercial?
The Pre-Retirement Checklist
This checklist can give you a quick snapshot of how prepared you are.
Three Key Questions to Answer Before Taking Social Security
When to start? Should I continue to work? How can I maximize my benefit?
Qualifying For Medicare Under Age 65
You might qualify for Medicare if you’re under 65-years-old. This article will explain the conditions where you may qualify for Medicare early.
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Rent vs Buy Calculator
Compare the long-term financial outcomes of renting versus buying a home.
Student Loan Refinance Calculator
Compare your current student loan terms to a potential refinance to see if it makes sense.
College Savings
See how much you may need to save now to cover future college costs for your child.
What's Your MPG?
Calculate your vehicle's fuel efficiency and see what you're spending on gas annually.
Historical Inflation
See how the purchasing power of a dollar has changed over time due to inflation.
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.
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How to Retire Early
Retiring early sounds like a dream come true, but it’s important to take a look at the cold, hard facts.
Dreaming Up an Active Retirement
When you retire, how will you treat your next chapter?
Top 5 Things to Tell Your Financial Pro
Here are the top 5 things your team may want to hear.
The Fed and How It Got That Way
Here is a quick history of the Federal Reserve and an overview of what it does.
Behavioral Finance
An amusing and whimsical look at behavioral finance best practices for investors.
Choosing a Mortgage
Selecting a mortgage isn't an easy process. Get a better understanding of how professionals make the right decisions.