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

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Healthcare Provider Update: Chipotle's healthcare provider is Aetna, which offers a variety of health plans for its employees, including options for both individual and family coverage designed to provide comprehensive care. As we look towards 2026, Chipotle employees should brace for significant healthcare cost increases. With rising medical expenses and a looming expiration of enhanced federal subsidies for the Affordable Care Act, many workers could see their out-of-pocket expenses rise dramatically. Research suggests that some states may experience premium hikes exceeding 60%, potentially pushing out-of-pocket costs for employees much higher, as employers face pressures to transfer more healthcare expenses onto their workforces. Understanding these changes early and making informed decisions about benefit options will be crucial in navigating the expected financial strain. Click here to learn more

Most Chipotle 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 Chipotle 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 Chipotle employee could secure may surprise you.

  •  Finder.com, 2019
  •  StudentAid.gov, 2020

What type of retirement savings plan does Chipotle offer to its employees?

Chipotle offers a 401(k) retirement savings plan to its employees.

Does Chipotle provide matching contributions to its 401(k) plan?

Yes, Chipotle provides a matching contribution to eligible employees participating in the 401(k) plan.

How can Chipotle employees enroll in the 401(k) plan?

Chipotle employees can enroll in the 401(k) plan through the company’s benefits portal or by contacting the HR department for assistance.

What is the eligibility requirement for Chipotle employees to participate in the 401(k) plan?

Generally, Chipotle employees must be at least 21 years old and have completed a certain period of service to be eligible for the 401(k) plan.

Can Chipotle employees contribute to their 401(k) plan through payroll deductions?

Yes, Chipotle employees can make contributions to their 401(k) plan through automatic payroll deductions.

What types of investment options are available in Chipotle's 401(k) plan?

Chipotle’s 401(k) plan typically offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and other investment vehicles.

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

Yes, Chipotle has a vesting schedule for its matching contributions, which means employees must work for a certain period before they fully own those contributions.

How often can Chipotle employees change their 401(k) contribution amounts?

Chipotle employees can typically change their 401(k) contribution amounts at any time, subject to the plan’s rules.

What happens to a Chipotle employee's 401(k) account if they leave the company?

If a Chipotle employee leaves the company, they can choose to roll over their 401(k) balance to another retirement account, withdraw the funds, or leave the account with Chipotle, depending on the plan's rules.

Are there any fees associated with Chipotle's 401(k) plan?

Yes, Chipotle's 401(k) plan may have administrative fees and investment-related fees, which are disclosed in the plan documents.

With the current political climate we are in it is important to keep up with current news and remain knowledgeable about your benefits.
In 2024, Chipotle announced a strategic restructuring plan aimed at optimizing operational efficiency and reducing costs, which includes a reduction in workforce at several locations. The company also introduced a new benefits package for remaining employees, focusing on increased health benefits and a revamped 401(k) plan with enhanced employer matching contributions.
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For more information you can reach the plan administrator for Chipotle at 610 Newport Center Dr., Suite 1300 Newport Beach, CA 92660; or by calling them at 1-949-524-4000.

*Please see disclaimer for more information

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