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

Most Ingredion 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 Ingredion 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 Ingredion employee could secure may surprise you.

Finder.com, 2019

StudentAid.gov, 2020

What is the 401k plan offered by Ingredion?

The 401k plan offered by Ingredion is a retirement savings plan that allows employees to save a portion of their earnings on a tax-deferred basis.

How does Ingredion match employee contributions to the 401k plan?

Ingredion matches employee contributions to the 401k plan up to a certain percentage, helping employees maximize their retirement savings.

Can employees of Ingredion choose how their 401k contributions are invested?

Yes, employees of Ingredion can choose from a variety of investment options within the 401k plan to align with their retirement goals.

What is the eligibility requirement for Ingredion's 401k plan?

To be eligible for Ingredion's 401k plan, employees typically need to meet specific criteria such as age and length of service.

When can employees of Ingredion enroll in the 401k plan?

Employees of Ingredion can enroll in the 401k plan during the initial enrollment period or during open enrollment periods as specified by the company.

How can Ingredion employees change their 401k contribution amount?

Ingredion employees can change their 401k contribution amount by submitting a request through the company’s HR portal or by contacting the HR department.

Does Ingredion offer a loan option against the 401k savings plan?

Yes, Ingredion does offer a loan option against the 401k savings plan, allowing employees to borrow from their savings under certain conditions.

What happens to my 401k savings if I leave Ingredion?

If you leave Ingredion, you have several options for your 401k savings, including rolling it over to another retirement account or cashing it out, subject to taxes and penalties.

Are there any fees associated with Ingredion's 401k plan?

Yes, there may be administrative fees associated with Ingredion's 401k plan, which are disclosed in the plan documents provided to employees.

Can Ingredion employees access their 401k funds while still employed?

Generally, Ingredion employees cannot access their 401k funds while still employed, except through loans or hardship withdrawals as permitted by the plan.

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: Look for the specific name of Ingredion's pension plan. Check eligibility criteria such as years of service and age requirements. 401(k) Plan Details: Identify the name of Ingredion's 401(k) plan. Check who qualifies for the 401(k) plan.

Restructuring and Layoffs: In early 2024, Ingredion announced a significant restructuring plan to streamline operations and reduce costs. This includes a reduction of approximately 200 positions globally as part of their strategic realignment to focus on core businesses. The decision is driven by the need to adapt to changing market conditions and enhance operational efficiency. This move reflects broader industry trends of companies optimizing their workforce amidst economic uncertainties. Benefit and Pension Changes: Ingredion is also revising its employee benefits package, including adjustments to its pension plan and 401(k) offerings. The company is shifting from a defined benefit pension plan to a defined contribution plan, impacting employees’ retirement savings and planning. Additionally, changes to the 401(k) plan will involve adjustments in matching contributions and investment options. This is crucial for employees to understand as it directly affects their retirement readiness and financial planning. Given the current economic, investment, tax, and political environment, these changes necessitate careful attention and adjustment to individual retirement strategies.

Ingredion provides stock options to select employees as part of their compensation plan. The company uses the acronym "ISO" for Incentive Stock Options and "NSO" for Non-Qualified Stock Options. Stock options are typically granted to executives and senior management. RSUs Ingredion grants RSUs to executives and other high-level employees. The acronym "RSU" stands for Restricted Stock Units. RSUs are part of Ingredion’s long-term incentive plan and vest over a period of time, often contingent on performance or continued employment.

2022 Report: The annual report mentions a focus on maintaining competitive benefits to attract and retain top talent, with specific attention to healthcare and wellness programs. 2023 Report: Details include enhanced telehealth services and expanded mental health support as part of their benefits package. 2024 Report: Highlights ongoing improvements in health benefits, particularly in response to employee feedback and market trends.

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For more information you can reach the plan administrator for Ingredion at , ; or by calling them at .

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