It Starts with a Plan
Welcome, I’m Michael Bishop, a financial consultant in Murrieta, California. I understand that individuals face unique challenges as they prepare for retirement and look to succeed with their financial goals. With a carefully thought-out plan, I aim to prepare you for today and tomorrow. Whether your goal is saving for retirement, college savings, or estate strategy, my personalized service focuses on your needs, wants, and financial goals and objectives.
For over 35 years I've been advising families, individuals, and businesses and can help you address your needs and goals through all stages of your life.
Helpful Content
Pullbacks, Corrections, and Bear Markets
When the market experiences volatility, it may be a good time to review these common terms.
RE: Retirement
How does your ideal retirement differ from reality, and what can we do to better align the two?
Perception vs. Reality
There’s an alarming difference between perception and reality for current and future retirees.
You Would Rather Be...
Are you a thrill seeker, or content to relax in the backyard? Use this flowchart to find out more about your risk tolerance.
A Checklist for When a Spouse or Parent Passes
An overview of some fundamental steps when a loved one passes.
Personal Finance Tips for Military Families
Military families face unique challenges, making personal finance even more critical.
Making Sense Of A Home Warranty
Understanding the value of a home warranty.
What's So Great About a Rollover?
Making a career move requires tough decisions, not the least of which is what to do with the funds in your retirement plan.
The Economic Journey of Your Morning Coffee
Few contemplate the complex journey that brought their coffee from farm to kitchen table.
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What Is My Net Worth?
Get a snapshot of your overall financial picture by calculating your total net worth.
How Compound Interest Works
Explore how compound interest can grow your money over time with this interactive tool.
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.
Student Loan Refinance Calculator
Compare your current student loan terms to a potential refinance to see if it makes sense.
Bi-Weekly Mortgage Payments
See how switching to bi-weekly mortgage payments could reduce interest and shorten your loan.
The Power of 401k Catch-Ups
See how catch-up contributions after age 50 could significantly boost your retirement balance.
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Tuning Your Social Security Benefit
When should you take your Social Security benefit?
When Do You Need a Will?
When do you need a will? The answer is easy: Right Now.
What to Do When You Lose Your Wallet
Ever lost your wallet? Frustrating. Here’s what you can do to keep yourself safe.
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 Fed and How It Got That Way
Here is a quick history of the Federal Reserve and an overview of what it does.
The Long Run: Women and Retirement
For women, retirement strategy is a long race. It’s helpful to know the route.