Healthcare Provider Update: Provides health insurance through Blue Cross Blue Shield, with additional dental and vision coverage 2. With ACA insurers requesting double-digit hikes, MRCs employer-sponsored plans may offer more predictable and affordable coverage compared to marketplace options. Click here to learn more
Most MRC Global 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 MRC Global 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 MRC Global employee could secure may surprise you.
- Finder.com, 2019
- StudentAid.gov, 2020
What type of retirement plan does MRC Global offer to its employees?
MRC Global offers a 401(k) retirement savings plan to its employees.
How can employees participate in MRC Global's 401(k) plan?
Employees can participate in MRC Global's 401(k) plan by enrolling during the open enrollment period or when they first become eligible.
Does MRC Global match employee contributions to the 401(k) plan?
Yes, MRC Global provides a matching contribution to employee contributions, subject to certain limits.
What is the maximum contribution limit for MRC Global's 401(k) plan?
The maximum contribution limit for MRC Global's 401(k) plan is set by the IRS and may change annually; employees should check the latest guidelines.
Are there any eligibility requirements to join MRC Global's 401(k) plan?
Yes, MRC Global has specific eligibility requirements, which typically include age and length of service with the company.
Can employees take loans against their 401(k) balance at MRC Global?
Yes, MRC Global allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) balance, subject to the plan's terms and conditions.
How can employees access their 401(k) account information at MRC Global?
Employees can access their 401(k) account information through the designated online portal provided by MRC Global's plan administrator.
What investment options are available in MRC Global's 401(k) plan?
MRC Global's 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, stocks, and bonds.
Does MRC Global allow for Roth 401(k) contributions?
Yes, MRC Global offers the option for employees to make Roth 401(k) contributions, allowing after-tax savings.
What happens to my 401(k) funds if I leave MRC Global?
If you leave MRC Global, you can choose to roll over your 401(k) funds to another retirement account, cash out, or leave the funds in the plan, subject to certain conditions.