New Update: Healthcare Costs Increasing by Over 60% in Some States. Will you be impacted?

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

Healthcare Provider Update: Coca-Cola's primary healthcare provider is Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield, offering coverage options for its employees that includes a variety of plan choices to address their diverse healthcare needs. As we look ahead to 2026, significant increases in healthcare costs are anticipated, particularly in the wake of potential changes to the Affordable Care Act. A perfect storm of factors is contributing to this forecast; namely, the expiration of enhanced federal premium subsidies may lead many consumers to face out-of-pocket premium increases exceeding 75%. Coupled with anticipated medical cost inflation, which is projected to rise around 8% annually, employees of Coca-Cola and others could see their healthcare expenses surge dramatically, prompting companies to adapt their health benefits strategies. Click here to learn more

Most Coca-Cola 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 Coca-Cola 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

Featured Video

Articles you may find interesting:

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 Coca-Cola employee could secure may surprise you.

Finder.com, 2019

StudentAid.gov, 2020

What is the Coca-Cola 401(k) plan?

The Coca-Cola 401(k) plan is a retirement savings plan that allows eligible employees to save a portion of their paycheck on a pre-tax basis, helping them prepare for retirement.

How can I enroll in the Coca-Cola 401(k) plan?

You can enroll in the Coca-Cola 401(k) plan by accessing the employee benefits portal or contacting the HR department for assistance with the enrollment process.

What is the employer match for the Coca-Cola 401(k) plan?

Coca-Cola offers a competitive employer match for contributions made to the 401(k) plan, which can significantly enhance your retirement savings.

When can I start contributing to the Coca-Cola 401(k) plan?

Eligible employees can start contributing to the Coca-Cola 401(k) plan after completing a specified waiting period, typically upon hire or after a designated time frame.

What types of investments are available in the Coca-Cola 401(k) plan?

The Coca-Cola 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and company stock, allowing employees to diversify their retirement savings.

How much can I contribute to the Coca-Cola 401(k) plan each year?

Employees can contribute up to the IRS annual limit for 401(k) plans, which is adjusted periodically. For 2023, the limit is $22,500, with an additional catch-up contribution for those aged 50 and over.

Does Coca-Cola offer a Roth 401(k) option?

Yes, Coca-Cola offers a Roth 401(k) option, allowing employees to make after-tax contributions to their retirement savings, which can grow tax-free.

Can I take a loan from my Coca-Cola 401(k) plan?

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

What happens to my Coca-Cola 401(k) plan if I leave the company?

If you leave Coca-Cola, you can choose to roll over your 401(k) balance to another retirement account, cash out your balance (subject to taxes and penalties), or leave it in the Coca-Cola plan if eligible.

How often can I change my contributions to the Coca-Cola 401(k) plan?

Employees can typically change their contribution amounts to the Coca-Cola 401(k) plan at any time, subject to the plan's specific guidelines and deadlines.

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

Coca-Cola offers both a traditional defined benefit pension plan and a defined contribution 401(k) plan. The defined benefit plan calculates retirement benefits based on years of service and final average pay. The 401(k) plan includes company matching contributions, with various investment options available to employees, such as target-date funds and mutual funds. Coca-Cola provides financial education and planning resources to help employees manage their retirement savings.

Coca-Cola has announced a major global reorganization, which includes offering voluntary separation packages to 4,000 employees and implementing layoffs. The company continues to offer a comprehensive benefits package, including a 401(k) plan with company match and various health and wellness programs. Staying informed about these benefits is vital in the current political climate.

Coca-Cola offers RSUs as part of its equity compensation, vesting over time and converting into shares. They also provide stock options, enabling employees to buy shares at a set price.

Additional Articles

Check Out Articles for Coca-Cola employees

For more information you can reach the plan administrator for Coca-Cola at One Coca-Cola Plaza Atlanta, GA 30313; or by calling them at (404) 676-2121.