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Most Citrix Systems 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 Citrix Systems 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 Citrix Systems employee could secure may surprise you.
- Finder.com, 2019
- StudentAid.gov, 2020
What is the 401(k) plan offered by Citrix Systems?
The 401(k) plan at Citrix Systems is a retirement savings plan that allows employees to save a portion of their salary on a tax-deferred basis.
Does Citrix Systems match employee contributions to the 401(k) plan?
Yes, Citrix Systems offers a matching contribution to the 401(k) plan, which helps employees grow their retirement savings.
What is the maximum contribution limit for the Citrix Systems 401(k) plan?
The maximum contribution limit for the Citrix Systems 401(k) plan is determined by the IRS guidelines, which can change annually.
When can employees of Citrix Systems enroll in the 401(k) plan?
Employees of Citrix Systems can enroll in the 401(k) plan during their initial onboarding period or during the annual open enrollment period.
What investment options are available in the Citrix Systems 401(k) plan?
The Citrix Systems 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and other investment vehicles.
How can employees of Citrix Systems change their 401(k) contribution amounts?
Employees can change their 401(k) contribution amounts by accessing the benefits portal or contacting the HR department at Citrix Systems.
Is there a vesting schedule for the employer match in the Citrix Systems 401(k) plan?
Yes, Citrix Systems has a vesting schedule for the employer match, which means employees must work for a certain period before they fully own the matched contributions.
Can employees take loans against their 401(k) plan at Citrix Systems?
Yes, employees of Citrix Systems may have the option to take loans against their 401(k) plan, subject to specific terms and conditions.
What happens to the 401(k) plan if an employee leaves Citrix Systems?
If an employee leaves Citrix Systems, they can choose to roll over their 401(k) balance to another retirement account, cash it out, or leave it in the Citrix Systems plan if allowed.
Are there any fees associated with the Citrix Systems 401(k) plan?
Yes, there may be administrative fees and investment fees associated with the Citrix Systems 401(k) plan, which are disclosed in the plan documents.