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

Most Martin Marietta Materials 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 Martin Marietta Materials 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 Martin Marietta Materials employee could secure may surprise you.

Finder.com, 2019

StudentAid.gov, 2020

What type of retirement savings plan does Martin Marietta Materials offer to its employees?

Martin Marietta Materials offers a 401(k) retirement savings plan to its employees.

How can I enroll in the 401(k) plan at Martin Marietta Materials?

Employees can enroll in the 401(k) plan at Martin Marietta Materials by completing the enrollment process through the company’s benefits portal.

Does Martin Marietta Materials match employee contributions to the 401(k) plan?

Yes, Martin Marietta Materials provides a matching contribution to employee 401(k) plan contributions, subject to certain limits.

What is the maximum contribution limit for the 401(k) plan at Martin Marietta Materials?

The maximum contribution limit for the 401(k) plan at Martin Marietta Materials is in line with the IRS annual contribution limits, which can change each year.

Can employees at Martin Marietta Materials take loans against their 401(k) savings?

Yes, employees at Martin Marietta Materials may have the option to take loans against their 401(k) savings, subject to the plan’s terms.

What investment options are available in the Martin Marietta Materials 401(k) plan?

The Martin Marietta Materials 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds and target-date funds, allowing employees to choose based on their risk tolerance.

Is there a vesting schedule for the employer match in the Martin Marietta Materials 401(k) plan?

Yes, there is a vesting schedule for the employer match in the Martin Marietta Materials 401(k) plan, which determines when employees fully own the matched contributions.

Can I change my contribution percentage to the 401(k) plan at Martin Marietta Materials?

Yes, employees can change their contribution percentage to the 401(k) plan at Martin Marietta Materials at any time, subject to plan rules.

What happens to my 401(k) savings if I leave Martin Marietta Materials?

If you leave Martin Marietta Materials, you have several options for your 401(k) savings, including rolling it over to another retirement account, cashing it out, or leaving it in the plan if permitted.

Are there any fees associated with the Martin Marietta Materials 401(k) plan?

Yes, there may be administrative fees associated with the Martin Marietta Materials 401(k) plan, which are disclosed in the plan documents.

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: Martin Marietta Materials Pension Plan provides benefits based on years of service and age, with a defined benefit formula. 401(k) Plan: Martin Marietta Materials 401(k) Savings Plan offers opportunities for employees to contribute with an employer match after 30 days of service.

Layoffs & Restructuring: In 2023, Martin Marietta Materials announced a strategic restructuring plan aimed at optimizing operational efficiency. This involved a reduction in workforce, particularly in non-core areas, to streamline operations and reduce costs. The company stated that the layoffs were part of a broader strategy to enhance its competitive position amid fluctuating market conditions. Given the current economic climate, such restructuring is significant as it reflects the company’s effort to remain agile in response to economic uncertainties and shifts in the construction industry. Benefit Changes & 401k: There have been notable changes to the company's benefits package and 401k plan. Martin Marietta updated its retirement benefits by increasing the company match for 401k contributions to better support employee financial planning. Additionally, there have been adjustments to health benefits to align with new regulations and to improve coverage. These changes are important to address because they impact employee financial security and retirement planning, especially in a volatile economic environment where investment and tax conditions are continually evolving

Martin Marietta Materials stock options and RSUs are granted to attract and retain key talent within the company. Martin Marietta Materials provides these benefits primarily to executives and high-potential employees to align their interests with the company's long-term goals. The stock options and RSUs offered by Martin Marietta Materials in 2022, 2023, and 2024 are designed to incentivize and reward significant contributions to the company's success.

Health Benefits Summary: Martin Marietta Materials provides a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision coverage. The benefits extend to both employees and their dependents. Specific Terms: HDHP (High Deductible Health Plan): A health insurance plan with higher deductibles and lower premiums. HSA (Health Savings Account): Tax-advantaged savings account used in conjunction with an HDHP. EAP (Employee Assistance Program): Provides mental health resources and counseling.