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
The Five Basics of Financial Literacy
How literate are you when it comes to your finances? Brush up with these five basics.
How the Federal Reserve Works
Each day, the Fed is behind the scenes supporting the economy and providing services to the U.S. financial system.
Six Surprising Facts About Retirement Confidence
This attention-grabbing infographic covers retirement topics you may not have considered.
9 Facts About Social Security
There are things about Social Security that might surprise you.
The A, B, C, & D of Medicare
Learn about all the parts of Medicare with this informative and enjoyable article.
Your Shifting Risk Tolerance
Time and market performance may subtly and slowly imbalance your portfolio.
How Income Taxes Work
A quick look at how federal income taxes work.
Breaking Down the Parts of Medicare
Medicare is broken down into four specific parts—but what do they mean? This article will help you understand each piece.
The Business Cycle
Understanding the economy's cycles can help put current business conditions in better perspective.
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Estimate Your RMD
Calculate your required minimum distribution amount based on your account balance and age.
Inflation & Retirement
See how inflation over time could affect the purchasing power of your 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.
Long-Term-Care Needs
Estimate potential long-term care costs and what coverage may help address them.
IRA Income
Estimate the potential monthly income your IRA balance could generate in retirement.
Annuity Comparison
Compare annuity options to see how each one could affect your long-term income outlook.
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16 Wall Street Cliches in 60 Seconds
Pundits say a lot of things about the markets. Let's see if you can keep up.
From Boats to Brokers
From the Dutch East India Company to Wall St., the stock market has a long and storied history.
Investments
You’ve made investments your whole life. Work with us to help make the most of them.
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.
Dog Bites and Homeowners Insurance
Reviewing coverage options is just one thing responsible pet parents can do to help look out for their dogs.
Retiring the 4% Rule
A portfolio created with your long-term objectives in mind is crucial as you pursue your dream retirement.