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

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Most CME Group 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 CME Group 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 CME Group employee could secure may surprise you.

Finder.com, 2019

StudentAid.gov, 2020

What is the CME Group 401(k) plan?

The CME Group 401(k) plan is a retirement savings plan that allows employees to save for their future by contributing a portion of their salary on a pre-tax or after-tax (Roth) basis.

How can I enroll in the CME Group 401(k) plan?

Employees can enroll in the CME Group 401(k) plan by accessing the benefits portal or contacting the HR department for enrollment instructions.

What is the employer match for the CME Group 401(k) plan?

CME Group offers an employer match on employee contributions, which is typically a percentage of the employee's contributions, subject to certain limits.

Are there any fees associated with the CME Group 401(k) plan?

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

What investment options are available in the CME Group 401(k) plan?

The CME Group 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and other investment vehicles to help employees diversify their portfolios.

Can I change my contribution rate for the CME Group 401(k) plan?

Yes, employees can change their contribution rate for the CME Group 401(k) plan at any time by accessing the benefits portal.

What is the vesting schedule for CME Group's 401(k) employer match?

The vesting schedule for CME Group's 401(k) employer match typically follows a graded vesting schedule, which means employees earn ownership of the employer contributions over time.

Can I take a loan from my CME Group 401(k) plan?

Yes, employees may have the option to take a loan from their CME Group 401(k) plan, subject to specific terms and conditions outlined in the plan documents.

What happens to my CME Group 401(k) plan if I leave the company?

If you leave CME Group, you have several options for your 401(k) plan, including rolling it over to another retirement account, cashing it out, or leaving it in the CME Group plan if allowed.

How often can I change my investment allocations in the CME Group 401(k) plan?

Employees can typically change their investment allocations in the CME Group 401(k) plan at any time, though there may be restrictions on frequent trading.

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, CME Group has announced a restructuring plan involving a reduction of approximately 5% of its workforce. The company is also reviewing its pension plan and 401(k) contributions to align with new regulatory changes.