Most Hearst Corporation 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 Hearst Corporation 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 Hearst Corporation employee could secure may surprise you.
- Finder.com, 2019
- StudentAid.gov, 2020
What is the Hearst Corporation 401(k) Savings Plan?
The Hearst Corporation 401(k) Savings Plan is a retirement savings plan that allows employees to save a portion of their paycheck before taxes are deducted, helping them prepare for retirement.
How does the Hearst Corporation match contributions to the 401(k) Savings Plan?
Hearst Corporation offers a matching contribution to the 401(k) Savings Plan, typically matching a percentage of employee contributions, up to a certain limit.
When can employees at Hearst Corporation enroll in the 401(k) Savings Plan?
Employees at Hearst Corporation can enroll in the 401(k) Savings Plan during their initial onboarding period or during designated open enrollment periods throughout the year.
What types of investment options are available in the Hearst Corporation 401(k) Savings Plan?
The Hearst Corporation 401(k) Savings Plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and other investment vehicles tailored to different risk tolerances.
Are there any fees associated with the Hearst Corporation 401(k) Savings Plan?
Yes, the Hearst Corporation 401(k) Savings Plan may have administrative fees and investment-related fees, which are outlined in the plan documents provided to employees.
Can employees take loans from their Hearst Corporation 401(k) Savings Plan?
Yes, employees may have the option to take loans from their Hearst Corporation 401(k) Savings Plan, subject to certain conditions and limits.
What happens to my Hearst Corporation 401(k) Savings Plan if I leave the company?
If you leave Hearst Corporation, you have several options for your 401(k) Savings Plan, including rolling it over into an IRA or a new employer's plan, or cashing it out (though this may incur taxes and penalties).
How can I access my Hearst Corporation 401(k) Savings Plan account information?
Employees can access their Hearst Corporation 401(k) Savings Plan account information online through the plan's designated website or by contacting the plan administrator.
Is there a vesting schedule for the Hearst Corporation 401(k) Savings Plan?
Yes, the Hearst Corporation 401(k) Savings Plan may have a vesting schedule that determines when employees fully own the company's matching contributions.
Can I change my contribution rate to the Hearst Corporation 401(k) Savings Plan?
Yes, employees can change their contribution rate to the Hearst Corporation 401(k) Savings Plan, typically at any time, depending on the plan's rules.