
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

Life Insurance Myths: Debunked
Whether you have life insurance through your work or are retired it pays to know the truth about life insurance coverage.

Lifetime of Earnings
Estimate how much you have the potential to earn during your working years.

Questions to Ask About Medicare
Take the guesswork out of your IEP or SEP with this helpful article.
Key Money Moments: 4 Times You Should Talk to a Pro
Life happens fast, and your finances can take a backseat if you’re not careful. Is it time to check in with a financial professional? This infographic will help you examine your own financial situation and decide if it’s time to step up your financial game.
Keeping Summer Safe: Pool and Spa Safety Tips
Each year hundreds of children die or are injured in pool accidents. By taking seven steps, you can keep your pool safe.
What to Look for in an Extended-Care Policy
Here’s a list of 8 questions to ask that may help you better understand the costs and benefits of extended-care insurance.
Filing Final Tax Returns for the Deceased
The federal government requires deceased individuals to file a final income tax return.
You May Need to Make Estimated Tax Payments If…
Have income that isn’t subject to tax withholding? Or insufficient withholdings? You may have to pay estimated taxes.
Understanding Homeowners Insurance
Purchasing homeowners insurance is critical for protecting your home.
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Annuity Comparison
This calculator compares a hypothetical fixed annuity with an account where the interest is taxed each year.
Roth 401(k) vs. Traditional 401(k)
This calculator compares employee contributions to a Roth 401(k) and a traditional 401(k).
Can I Refinance My Mortgage?
This calculator can help determine whether it makes sense to refinance your mortgage.
Social Security Taxes
Estimate how much of your Social Security benefit may be considered taxable.
Taxable vs. Tax-Deferred Savings
Use this calculator to compare the future value of investments with different tax consequences.
Federal Income Tax
Use this calculator to estimate your income tax liability along with average and marginal tax rates.
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Managing Your Lifestyle
Using smart management to get more of what you want and free up assets to invest.
Principles of Preserving Wealth
How federal estate taxes work, plus estate management documents and tactics.
5 Smart Investing Strategies
There are some smart strategies that may help you pursue your investment objectives
Your Cash Flow Statement
A presentation about managing money: using it, saving it, and even getting credit.
Long-Term-Care Protection Strategies
The chances of needing long-term care, its cost, and strategies for covering that cost.
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A Bucket Plan to Go with Your Bucket List
A bucket plan can help you be better prepared for a comfortable retirement.
Once Upon a Goal
Do you know how to set up your financial goals for success? This knight does.
To Buy or Not to Buy
The decision whether to buy or rent a home may have long-term implications.
The Long Run: Women and Retirement
For women, retirement strategy is a long race. It’s helpful to know the route.
The Richest Man in Babylon
In good times and bad, consistently saving a percentage of your income is a sound financial practice.
A New Way to Look at Your Bucket List
Bucket lists don’t have to be for tomorrow.