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
Social Security Benefits: How Much Will I Receive
Calculating your potential Social Security benefit is a three-step process.
How Long Will My Savings Last If I Become Disabled?
See how long your current savings might last if a disability interrupted your income.
Healthcare Costs That Catch Retirees Off Guard
An article on three healthcare costs that often catch retirees off guard.
How Financial Professionals Are Compensated
Read this overview to learn how financial advisors are compensated.
New Retirement Contribution Limits for 2026
A look at the new retirement contribution limits from the IRS.
Problems with Probate
Probate can be a completely public process, or it can be managed to include as little information as possible.
Term vs. Permanent Life Insurance
When considering life insurance, it's important to understand your options.
Social Media: Newest Business Liability Risk
Social media may be a modern imperative for businesses looking to grow and build their brand, but it also introduces risk.
Best-Performing Asset Classes
Bonds may outperform stocks one year only to have stocks rebound the next.
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Inflation & Retirement
See how inflation over time could affect the purchasing power of your retirement income.
How Long Will Your Money Last?
See how long a lump sum of savings could last based on your withdrawal rate and return.
The Power of 401k Catch-Ups
See how catch-up contributions after age 50 could significantly boost your retirement balance.
Roth 401(k) vs. Traditional 401(k)
Compare Roth and traditional 401(k) options to see which may work better for your situation.
What Is My Net Worth?
Get a snapshot of your overall financial picture by calculating your total net worth.
Emergency Fund Calculator
Find out how large your emergency fund should be based on your monthly expenses.
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Coaches
Coaches have helped you your whole life, in ways big and small. We'd like to be one of them.
Investments
You’ve made investments your whole life. Work with us to help make the most of them.
An Arm and a Leg
A visit to the hospital can be painful, for both your body and your wallet. Don't let it be more painful than it has to be.
Finding the Balance
The sandwich generation faces unique challenges. For many, meeting needs is a matter of finding a balance.
Should You Tap Retirement Savings to Fund College?
There are three things to consider before dipping into retirement savings to pay for college.
The Cost of Procrastination
Procrastination can be costly. When you get a late start, it may be difficult to make up for lost time.