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
Exploring Retirement Plans for Small Businesses
Help small businesses make better retirement decisions for employees with this eye-catching and informative infographic.
Social Security Tax Estimator
Estimate how much of your Social Security benefit may be subject to federal income tax.
Asset Allocation
Consider how your assets are allocated and if that allocation is consistent with your time frame and risk tolerance.
Financial Aid for Students 101
Help your college-bound child explore scholarships, grants, and more with this article on paying for higher education.
A Brief History of Estate Taxes
Federal estate taxes have long since been a lucrative source of funding for the federal government.
Understanding the Alternate Valuation Date
Executors can value the estate on the date of death, or on its six-month anniversary —the “Alternate Valuation Date."
4 Steps to Protecting a Child with Disabilities
Planning for a child with special needs can be complicated, confusing, and even overwhelming.
Making a Charitable Gift
Did you know that there are benefits and limitations when you decide to donate stock? Learn more about your options.
9 Facts About Social Security
There are things about Social Security that might surprise you.
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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
Simple 401k
See how increasing your 401(k) contributions today could affect your balance at retirement.
Long-Term-Care Needs
Estimate potential long-term care costs and what coverage may help address them.
Rent vs Buy Calculator
Compare the long-term financial outcomes of renting versus buying a home.
Inflation & Retirement
See how inflation over time could affect the purchasing power of your retirement income.
Assess Your Life Insurance Needs
Estimate how much life insurance coverage may be appropriate for your situation.
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Choosing a Mortgage
Selecting a mortgage isn't an easy process. Get a better understanding of how professionals make the right decisions.
A Bucket Plan to Go with Your Bucket List
A bucket plan can help you be better prepared for a comfortable retirement.
4 Elements of an Estate Strategy
Learn about the importance of having an estate strategy in this helpful and informative video.
The Junk Drawer Approach to Investing
It's easy to let investments accumulate like old receipts in a junk drawer.
The Rule of 72
Do you know how long it may take for your investments to double in value? The Rule of 72 is a quick way to figure it out.
Encore Careers: Push Your Boundaries
Ready for retirement? Find out why many are considering encore careers and push your boundaries into something more, here.