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Ashland Employees: Unlock the Benefits of the Federal Student Grant Program for Your Family's Education

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Most Ashland employees have already heard of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA, if they or someone they know has plans to attend a college, career school, or university. Last year, around 70% of families submitted a FAFSA to the Department of Education to secure financial assistance. But what many prospective and current students may overlook are the various federal grants awarded to students in need each year.

Granted value

Most federal grants, unlike loans, function as sources of funding. There are some exceptions, though. For example, if a student is awarded a grant, but withdraws from the program in which they’re enrolled, they may be required to pay back all or a portion of that grant.

Know your grants

The Department of Education offers multiple aid packages as part of the Federal Student Grant Program and all Ashland employees should be aware of them. The following four are granted most often, and each has different requirements for eligibility. The information below applies to the 2023-2024 academic year:

Federal Pell Grants - With a maximum award of $6,895, Pell Grants are reserved for undergraduate students who have exceptional financial need and have not earned a bachelor’s, graduate, or professional degree yet.
Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants (FSEO) - FSEO Grants award a maximum of $4,000 to those who demonstrate exceptional need and have not yet earned a bachelor’s or graduate degree. FSEO Grants also give priority to Pell Grant recipients over other applicants.
Iraq and Afghanistan Service Grants - These grants award a maximum of $6,895, and they’re only for students whose parent or guardian served in a branch of the U.S. Armed Forces and died while serving in Iraq or Afghanistan after the events of 9/11.
Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education (TEACH) Grants - TEACH Grants award a maximum of $4,000, and they’re reserved for students who are enrolled in teaching preparation programs and agree to teach for a minimum of 4 years at the elementary or secondary school level in a high-need field.

FAFSA Required

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No matter who you are or your financial situation, you may want to consider submitting a FAFSA. After all, the grants listed above do require recipients to have an application on file with the Department of Education. And who knows? The potential financial benefit that you as a Ashland employee could secure may surprise you.

Finder.com, 2019

StudentAid.gov, 2020

What is the primary purpose of Ashland's 401(k) Savings Plan?

The primary purpose of Ashland's 401(k) Savings Plan is to help employees save for retirement by providing a tax-advantaged way to invest a portion of their income.

How can Ashland employees enroll in the 401(k) Savings Plan?

Ashland employees can enroll in the 401(k) Savings Plan by accessing the employee benefits portal or contacting the HR department for assistance.

Does Ashland offer a matching contribution for its 401(k) Savings Plan?

Yes, Ashland offers a matching contribution to the 401(k) Savings Plan, which helps employees maximize their retirement savings.

What types of investment options are available in Ashland's 401(k) Savings Plan?

Ashland's 401(k) Savings Plan typically offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and company stock.

At what age can Ashland employees start withdrawing from their 401(k) Savings Plan without penalties?

Ashland employees can start withdrawing from their 401(k) Savings Plan without penalties at age 59½.

Can Ashland employees take loans against their 401(k) Savings Plan balance?

Yes, Ashland allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) Savings Plan balance, subject to certain terms and conditions.

How often can Ashland employees change their contribution percentage to the 401(k) Savings Plan?

Ashland employees can change their contribution percentage to the 401(k) Savings Plan at any time, subject to plan rules.

Is there a vesting schedule for Ashland's 401(k) matching contributions?

Yes, Ashland has a vesting schedule for matching contributions, which determines how much of the employer contributions employees are entitled to based on their years of service.

Can Ashland employees roll over funds from another retirement account into the 401(k) Savings Plan?

Yes, Ashland employees can roll over funds from other qualified retirement accounts into the Ashland 401(k) Savings Plan.

What is the maximum contribution limit for Ashland's 401(k) Savings Plan?

The maximum contribution limit for Ashland's 401(k) Savings Plan is set by the IRS and may change annually; employees should check the latest guidelines for the specific limit.

With the current political climate we are in it is important to keep up with current news and remain knowledgeable about your benefits.

Ashland has announced a major restructuring plan aimed at streamlining operations and reducing costs. This includes significant layoffs and the consolidation of certain business units. Additionally, there are expected changes to employee benefits and pension plans.

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For more information you can reach the plan administrator for Ashland at 50 E RiverCenter Blvd #1900 Covington, KY 41011; or by calling them at +1 859-815-3333.