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
Making a Charitable Contribution
There are benefits and limitations when you decide to donate stock.
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.
Credit Card Payoff
Find out how long it may take to pay off a credit card balance and what it costs in interest.
It Was the Best of Times, It Was the Worst of Times
Learn about key investment principles that will help you navigate the unpredictability of the financial markets.
Your Social Security Roadmap
Help clients navigate their Social Security claiming decisions with our interactive roadmap.
Inflation and the Real Rate of Return
Learn about the role of inflation when considering your portfolio’s rate of return with this helpful article.
To choose a plan, it’s important to ask yourself four key questions.
Do Your Kids Know The Value of a Silver Spoon?
You taught them how to read and how to ride a bike, but have you taught your children how to manage money?
When Should You Take Social Security
Monthly Social Security payments differ substantially depending on when you start receiving benefits.
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How Can I Save a Million Dollars?
See what it takes in monthly contributions and time to reach a million-dollar savings goal.
Emergency Fund Calculator
Find out how large your emergency fund should be based on your monthly expenses.
Debt vs. Investment
Weigh the potential outcomes of paying off debt versus directing those dollars elsewhere.
Student Loan Refinance Calculator
Compare your current student loan terms to a potential refinance to see if it makes sense.
My Retirement Savings
See how your current savings rate and contributions may grow into retirement income.
What Rate Would I Need to Earn on My Savings?
Work backwards from your savings goal to find the rate of return you'd need to get there.
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Should You Ever Retire?
A growing number of Americans are pushing back the age at which they plan to retire. Or deciding not to retire at all.
The Cycle of Investing
Understanding the cycle of investing may help you avoid easy pitfalls.
Rightsizing for Retirement
What does your home really cost?
Surprise! You’ve Got Money!
Here’s a quick guide to checking to see if you have unclaimed money.
When Do You Need a Will?
When do you need a will? The answer is easy: Right Now.
Are Alternative Investments Right for You?
With alternative investments, it’s critical to sort through the complexity.