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
Tax Rules When Selling Your Home
The tax rules governing profits you realize from the sale of your home have changed in recent years.
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?
The Power of 401k Catch-Ups
See how catch-up contributions after age 50 could significantly boost your retirement balance.
Don’t Be Your Own Worst Enemy
Emotional biases can adversely impact financial decision making. Here’s a few to be mindful of.
Saving Early & Letting Time Work For You
The earlier you start pursuing financial goals, the better your outcome may be.
What You Should Do About Insurance Following a Divorce
In the face of divorce, making changes to insurance coverage may be overlooked.
The Three Keys to a Great Password
Have fun and learn how to craft the perfect password with the help of this highly engaging infographic.
The ABCs of Zero Coupon Bonds
Understanding some basic concepts may help you assess whether zero-coupon bonds have a place in your portfolio.
Filing Final Tax Returns for the Deceased
The federal government requires deceased individuals to file a final income tax return.
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Social Security Tax Estimator
Estimate how much of your Social Security benefit may be subject to federal income tax.
Bi-Weekly Mortgage Payments
See how switching to bi-weekly mortgage payments could reduce interest and shorten your loan.
Monthly Budget
Track your monthly income and expenses to get a clearer view of your cash flow.
How Can I Save a Million Dollars?
See what it takes in monthly contributions and time to reach a million-dollar savings goal.
Credit Card Payoff
Find out how long it may take to pay off a credit card balance and what it costs in interest.
Comparing Mortgage Terms
Compare different mortgage term lengths side by side to find the option that fits your budget.
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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.
RE: Retirement
How does your ideal retirement differ from reality, and what can we do to better align the two?
18 Years Worth of Days
The average retirement lasts for 18 years. What will you do with your days?
It Was the Best of Times, It Was the Worst of Times
All about how missing the best market days (or the worst!) might affect your portfolio.
Surprises
Making the most of surprises is a great reason to work with us.
When Special Care Is Needed: The Special Needs Trust
A special needs trust helps care for a special needs child when you’re gone.