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
First Year of Retirement: What to Expect
Understand the key financial and lifestyle shifts that happen in your first year of retirement.
Saving Early & Letting Time Work for You
See how starting early—not saving more—can be the most powerful move you make for your long-term future.
Are Alternative Investments Right for You?
With alternative investments, it’s critical to sort through the complexity.
Pickleball in Retirement
Learn about the latest sport to sweep the nation with this informative article.
Gap Insurance for Leased Cars
If you’re thinking of leasing a new car, then you shouldn’t forget about gap insurance.
Making Sense of HSAs and FSAs
How HSAs and FSAs might help your household.
Why Do Renters Have to Save More?
How much more would retirement cost if you owned your home rather than rented? It could actually be several times less.
How to Read Your Credit Report
Solve a mystery while learning how important your credit report is with this story-driven interactive.
Succeeding at Business Succession
There are a number of reasons for business owners to consider a business succession plan sooner rather than later.
View all articles 
Comparing Investments
Compare two different scenarios side by side to see how they stack up over time.
Simple 401k
See how increasing your 401(k) contributions today could affect your balance at retirement.
Comparing Mortgage Terms
Compare different mortgage term lengths side by side to find the option that fits your budget.
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
The Power of 401k Catch-Ups
See how catch-up contributions after age 50 could significantly boost your retirement balance.
Annuity Comparison
Compare annuity options to see how each one could affect your long-term income outlook.
View all calculators 
Finding the Balance
The sandwich generation faces unique challenges. For many, meeting needs is a matter of finding a balance.
Inflation and Your Portfolio
Even low inflation rates can pose a threat to investment returns.
Preparation is the Key to Retirement
The simplest ideas can sometimes make a massive difference over time. Enjoy this brief video to learn more.
Behavioral Finance
An amusing and whimsical look at behavioral finance best practices for investors.
When Special Care Is Needed: The Special Needs Trust
A special needs trust helps care for a special needs child when you’re gone.
Surprise! You’ve Got Money!
Here’s a quick guide to checking to see if you have unclaimed money.