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
Suddenly Single: 3 Steps to Take Now
Have you found yourself suddenly single? Here are 3 steps to take right now.
Does Your Portfolio Fit Your Retirement Lifestyle?
Lifestyle considerations in creating your retirement portfolio.
Your Emergency Fund: How Much Is Enough?
Having an emergency fund may help alleviate the stress and worry associated with a financial crisis.
Critical Estate Documents
Sound estate management includes creating financial and healthcare documents. Here's an inside look.
The Pros and Cons of an NUA Strategy
Learn the advantages of a Net Unrealized Appreciation strategy with this helpful article.
Making a Charitable Contribution
There are benefits and limitations when you decide to donate stock.
Should You Borrow from Your 401(k)?
Does it make sense to borrow from my 401(k) to pay off debt or to make a major purchase?
Understanding Qualified Charitable Distributions
Use this handy, informative article to help your clients understand Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs).
What Do Your Taxes Pay For?
Here's a breakdown of how the federal government spends your tax money.
View all articles 
What's Your MPG?
Calculate your vehicle's fuel efficiency and see what you're spending on gas annually.
Should I Buy or Lease an Auto?
Compare the true costs of buying versus leasing a vehicle to find the better fit for you.
College Savings
See how much you may need to save now to cover future college costs for your child.
Inflation & Retirement
See how inflation over time could affect the purchasing power of your retirement income.
How Much Do I Need To Retire?
How much is enough to retire? It depends on your lifestyle, timeline, and more. Use this calculator to get a personalized est
How Long Will Your Money Last?
See how long a lump sum of savings could last based on your withdrawal rate and return.
View all calculators
Saving for College 101
Here's a crash course on saving for college.
Retiring the 4% Rule
A portfolio created with your long-term objectives in mind is crucial as you pursue your dream retirement.
Investments
You’ve made investments your whole life. Work with us to help make the most of them.
How Cash Apps Work
Peer-to-peer payment apps are one of the newest ways to send money.
The Other Sure Thing
A new LIMRA study shows that 40% of Americans believe the death of a primary wage earner would cause financial challenges.
The Wild West of Data Theft
Learn about cyber liability insurance in this entertaining video.