Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for Gap Inc. Gap Inc., the global apparel retail company, typically provides employee health benefits through various insurance carriers. As of recent data, they predominantly utilize UnitedHealthcare for their healthcare plans. This partnership offers their employees comprehensive coverage options, including medical, dental, and vision plans. Healthcare Cost Increases for Gap in 2026 As we approach 2026, healthcare costs are expected to rise significantly, impacting Gap's overall employee benefits expenditures. Recent projections indicate that premiums for health insurance plans may increase by an average of 20%, with certain states experiencing jumps of 60% or more, primarily due to heightened medical expenses and the potential loss of federal premium subsidies. Consequently, many employees enrolled in Affordable Care Act (ACA) plans might see out-of-pocket costs surge by over 75%, compelling employers like Gap to reassess and potentially adjust their health benefits strategies to mitigate these financial pressures for their workforce. Click here to learn more
Most Gap 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 Gap 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 Gap employee could secure may surprise you.
- Finder.com, 2019
- StudentAid.gov, 2020
What is Gap's 401(k) plan?
Gap's 401(k) plan is a retirement savings plan that allows employees to save for their future by contributing a portion of their paycheck before taxes are taken out.
How does Gap match employee contributions to the 401(k) plan?
Gap offers a company match on employee contributions to the 401(k) plan, typically matching a percentage of the employee's contributions up to a certain limit.
What are the eligibility requirements for Gap's 401(k) plan?
Employees at Gap are generally eligible to participate in the 401(k) plan after completing a specified period of service, usually within the first year of employment.
Can Gap employees change their contribution rates to the 401(k) plan?
Yes, Gap employees can change their contribution rates to the 401(k) plan at any time, allowing them to adjust their savings based on their financial situation.
What investment options are available in Gap's 401(k) plan?
Gap's 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, stocks, and bonds, allowing employees to choose investments that align with their retirement goals.
Does Gap provide financial education regarding the 401(k) plan?
Yes, Gap provides resources and financial education to help employees understand their 401(k) options and make informed decisions about their retirement savings.
How can Gap employees enroll in the 401(k) plan?
Gap employees can enroll in the 401(k) plan through the company’s HR portal or by contacting the HR department for assistance with the enrollment process.
What happens to my 401(k) plan if I leave Gap?
If you leave Gap, you have several options for your 401(k) plan, including rolling it over to an individual retirement account (IRA) or another employer’s plan, or cashing it out.
Are there any fees associated with Gap's 401(k) plan?
Yes, like many 401(k) plans, Gap's 401(k) plan may have administrative fees and investment-related fees, which are disclosed in the plan documents.
How often can Gap employees change their investment allocations in the 401(k) plan?
Gap employees can change their investment allocations in the 401(k) plan at any time, allowing them to respond to market conditions or personal financial changes.
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