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Healthcare Provider Update: Columbia Sportswear offers health insurance coverage including medical, dental, vision, and mental health benefits. Employees also receive life and disability insurance, retirement plans with company match, paid parental leave, and lifestyle reimbursement accounts. Columbia Sportswear Healthcare costs in the United States are projected to continue rising through 2026, with insurers proposing significant premium increases for Affordable Care Act (ACA) plans. A recent analysis found that ACA insurers are seeking a median premium increase of 15% for 2026, marking the largest hike since 2018. This surge is attributed to factors such as the anticipated expiration of enhanced premium tax credits, rising medical costsincluding expensive medications and increased hospital staysand a shift in the risk pool towards higher-cost enrollees. Without the renewal of enhanced subsidies, out-of-pocket premiums for ACA marketplace enrollees could increase by more than 75% on average. Click here to learn more
Most Columbia Sportswear 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 Columbia Sportswear 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 Columbia Sportswear employee could secure may surprise you.
- Finder.com, 2019
- StudentAid.gov, 2020
What is the 401(k) plan offered by Columbia Sportswear?
The 401(k) plan at Columbia Sportswear is a retirement savings plan that allows employees to save for their future while benefiting from tax advantages.
How can I enroll in the 401(k) plan at Columbia Sportswear?
Employees can enroll in the Columbia Sportswear 401(k) plan by completing the enrollment process through the company’s benefits portal or by contacting the HR department.
Does Columbia Sportswear offer a company match for the 401(k) contributions?
Yes, Columbia Sportswear provides a company match for employee contributions to the 401(k) plan, which helps employees save more for retirement.
What is the vesting schedule for the 401(k) match at Columbia Sportswear?
The vesting schedule for the Columbia Sportswear 401(k) match typically follows a standard timeline, where employees earn ownership of the company match over a period of time.
Can employees make changes to their 401(k) contributions at Columbia Sportswear?
Yes, employees at Columbia Sportswear can change their contribution amounts or investment options at any time, subject to certain guidelines.
What investment options are available in the Columbia Sportswear 401(k) plan?
The Columbia Sportswear 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and other investment vehicles to suit different risk tolerances.
Is there a minimum contribution requirement for the Columbia Sportswear 401(k) plan?
Yes, Columbia Sportswear may have a minimum contribution requirement for employees wishing to participate in the 401(k) plan, which is outlined in the plan documents.
How does Columbia Sportswear’s 401(k) plan handle loans and withdrawals?
Employees can take loans or make withdrawals from their Columbia Sportswear 401(k) plan under certain conditions, such as financial hardship, as specified in the plan guidelines.
What resources does Columbia Sportswear provide to help employees understand their 401(k) options?
Columbia Sportswear offers educational resources, workshops, and access to financial advisors to help employees make informed decisions about their 401(k) options.
When can employees at Columbia Sportswear start contributing to their 401(k)?
Employees at Columbia Sportswear can typically start contributing to their 401(k) plan after completing a specified period of employment, as defined in the plan.
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