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

Host Hotels & Resorts Employees: Unlock the Benefits of the Federal Student Grant Program for Your Family's Education

Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for Host Hotels & Resorts: Host Hotels & Resorts offers healthcare benefits through various providers, with options that typically include major insurers like UnitedHealthcare, Anthem, and Kaiser Permanente. These plans often encompass a range of medical services, including telehealth, outpatient care, and pharmacy benefits. Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026: As 2026 approaches, employees of Host Hotels & Resorts should brace for significant increases in healthcare costs. Experts predict that health insurance premiums for plans under the Affordable Care Act could soar, with some states facing hikes of over 60%. Factors driving these increases include the expiration of enhanced federal subsidies and escalating medical expenses, which are projected to rise by as much as 7% to 10%. Amidst these looming changes, employees are encouraged to actively review their benefit options early to mitigate potential financial impacts. Click here to learn more

Most Host Hotels & Resorts 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 Host Hotels & Resorts 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 Host Hotels & Resorts employee could secure may surprise you.

Finder.com, 2019

StudentAid.gov, 2020

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

Pension Plan Details: Name of Pension Plan: Locate the name of Host Hotels & Resorts’ pension plan. Years of Service and Age Qualification: Determine the required years of service and age for eligibility. Pension Formula: Find the formula used to calculate pension benefits. 401(k) Plan Details: Name of 401(k) Plan: Identify the 401(k) plan name used by Host Hotels & Resorts. Eligibility: Find out who qualifies for the 401(k) plan and any specific requirements.

Restructuring and Layoffs: Host Hotels & Resorts has announced a restructuring plan in 2023 aimed at optimizing its operational efficiency. This includes a reduction in workforce by 10% as part of their strategy to streamline operations and reduce costs amid the uncertain economic environment. The company indicated that this move is necessary to adapt to the evolving market conditions and to improve overall profitability. This news is significant because it reflects broader trends in the hospitality sector, where many companies are adjusting their strategies in response to fluctuating demand and economic pressures.

Host Hotels & Resorts (HST) has provided stock options and RSUs to its employees as part of its compensation and incentive programs. HST typically uses these compensation tools to attract and retain talent, aligning employee interests with company performance. Stock options allow employees to buy shares at a predetermined price, while RSUs represent a promise to deliver shares after a vesting period.

Health Benefits Overview: Host Hotels & Resorts offers a range of health benefits including medical, dental, and vision insurance. They typically provide multiple plan options with varying levels of coverage to accommodate different needs. 2022-2024 Changes: For 2022, the company offered comprehensive plans with a focus on affordability and access. For 2023 and 2024, updates included enhancements to mental health support and expanded telehealth services. The company has also introduced new wellness programs focusing on preventive care and employee assistance programs