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
U.S. Personal Savings Rate
What can be learned from the savings rate?
Consider Keeping Your Life Insurance When You Retire
Reasons to retain your coverage into your retirement years.
The Financial Literacy Crisis
Many Americans are operating their personal finances with only the barest minimum of knowledge.
A Brief History of Estate Taxes
Federal estate taxes have long since been a lucrative source of funding for the federal government.
Mortgages in Retirement
Explore the benefits and drawbacks to paying off your mortgage prior to retirement with this article.
A Primer on Dividends
A company's profits can be reinvested or paid out to the company’s shareholders as “dividends."
Roth IRA for Kids
Learn about the benefits and requirements of opening a Roth IRA for kids.
Financial Aid for Students 101
Help your college-bound child explore scholarships, grants, and more with this article on paying for higher education.
Women and Financial Strategies
Most women don’t shy away from the day-to-day financial decisions, but some may be leaving their future to chance.
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Tax Freedom Day
Assess how many days you'll work to pay your federal tax liability.
Contributing to an IRA?
Determine if you are eligible to contribute to a traditional or Roth IRA.
Should I Buy or Lease an Auto?
This calculator compares the financial impact of leasing versus buying an automobile.
Self-Employed Retirement Plans
Estimate the maximum contribution amount for a Self-Employed 401(k), SIMPLE IRA, or SEP.
What Is the Dividend Yield?
This calculator helps determine your pre-tax and after-tax dividend yield on a particular stock.
Impact of Taxes and Inflation
Estimate the potential impact taxes and inflation can have on the purchasing power of an investment.
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Dreaming Up an Active Retirement
When you retire, how will you treat your next chapter?
Your DNA Test
A Detailed Needs Analysis (DNA) can be a simple way to care for loved ones, no matter what the future may hold.
A New Way to Look at Your Bucket List
Bucket lists don’t have to be for tomorrow.
What You Need to Know About Social Security
Every so often, you'll hear about Social Security benefits running out. But is there truth to the fears, or is it all hype?
Perception vs. Reality
There’s an alarming difference between perception and reality for current and future retirees.
Surprises
Making the most of surprises is a great reason to work with us.