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 House Divided
By understanding a few key concepts during a divorce, you may be able to avoid common pitfalls.
Assess Your Life Insurance Needs
Estimate how much life insurance coverage may be appropriate for your situation.
Ways to Supplement Your Medicare Coverage
There are numerous ways to supplement your Medicare insurance coverage. This article helps you explore your options.
What If Your Kids Decide Against College?
Rising college costs prompt students to seek alternatives; 529 account funds can be used for other education options.
How to Appeal Your Property Taxes
For homeowners who think their property taxes are too high, there are ways to appeal.
The Cost of Procrastination
Don't let procrastination keep you from pursuing your financial dreams and goals.
Avoiding Cognitive Decline
Try these activities to keep your brain sharp.
Yours, Mine, and Ours: Estate Strategies for Second Marriage
Second marriages are a trigger event to revisit any existing estate strategies.
When Does Your Personal Car Become a Commercial Vehicle?
At what point can you call a personal vehicle commercial?
View all articles 
Inflation & Retirement
See how inflation over time could affect the purchasing power of your retirement income.
Comparing Investments
Compare two different scenarios side by side to see how they stack up over time.
Debt-to-Income Ratio Calculator
Calculate your debt-to-income ratio to understand how lenders may view your financial health.
Should I Buy or Lease an Auto?
Compare the true costs of buying versus leasing a vehicle to find the better fit for you.
Lifetime of Earnings
Estimate how much you may earn over your working years based on your current income.
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
View all calculators
Should I Invest in Gold?
Learning more about gold and its history may help you decide whether it has a place in your portfolio.
The Cycle of Investing
Understanding the cycle of investing may help you avoid easy pitfalls.
Once Upon a Goal
Do you know how to set up your financial goals for success? This knight does.
Timing Your Retirement
This short video illustrates the importance of understanding sequence of returns risk.
Retirement and Quality of Life
Asking the right questions about how you can save money for retirement without sacrificing your quality of life.
Leaving Your Lasting Legacy
Want to do more with your wealth? You might want to consider creating a charitable foundation.