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 25 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
Understanding the Basics of Medigap Policies
Important as it is, Medicare does not cover the full range of health-care expenses you may experience in your golden years.
A Look at Whole Life Insurance
Whole life insurance remains in force as long as you remain current with premiums. Here's how it works.
Universal Life Insurance
Universal life insurance is permanent insurance with a flexible premium. Here's how it works.
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.
When Does Your Personal Car Become a Commercial Vehicle?
At what point can you call a personal vehicle commercial?
Trends in Charitable Giving
Some people may want a more advanced gifting strategy that can maximize their gift and generate potential tax benefits.
Tax Efficiency in Retirement
What role would taxes play in your investment decisions?
Social Security: Five Facts You Need to Know
Here are five facts about Social Security that are important to keep in mind.
Putting a Price Tag On Your Health
Being healthy not only makes you feel good, it may also help you financially.
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My Retirement Savings
Estimate how long your retirement savings may last using various monthly cash flow rates.
Saving for Retirement
This calculator can help you estimate how much you may need to save for retirement.
Bi-Weekly Payments
This calculator estimates the savings from paying a mortgage bi-weekly instead of monthly.
Self-Employed Retirement Plans
Estimate the maximum contribution amount for a Self-Employed 401(k), SIMPLE IRA, or SEP.
Home Mortgage Deduction
Use this calculator to assess the potential benefits of a home mortgage deduction.
Taxable vs. Tax-Deferred Savings
Use this calculator to compare the future value of investments with different tax consequences.
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Long-Term-Care Protection Strategies
The chances of needing long-term care, its cost, and strategies for covering that cost.
Principles of Preserving Wealth
How federal estate taxes work, plus estate management documents and tactics.
Managing Your Lifestyle
Using smart management to get more of what you want and free up assets to invest.
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Global and International Funds
Investors seeking world investments can choose between global and international funds. What's the difference?
How to Retire Early
Retiring early sounds like a dream come true, but it’s important to take a look at the cold, hard facts.
It May Be Time for a Financial Checkup
It’s never a bad time to speak with your financial professional about changes in your situation.
The Latte Lie and Other Myths
Check out this video to begin separating fact from fiction.
The Junk Drawer Approach to Investing
It's easy to let investments accumulate like old receipts in a junk drawer.
The Facts About Income Tax
Millions faithfully file their 1040 forms each April. But some things about federal income taxes may surprise you.