Healthcare Provider Update: Offers medical, dental, and vision insurance, along with HSAs, FSAs, life insurance, and disability coverage 1. As ACA premiums rise and subsidies expire, MSCs comprehensive employer-sponsored plans offer a more stable and cost-effective alternative to marketplace coverage. Click here to learn more
Most MSC Industrial Direct 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 MSC Industrial Direct 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 MSC Industrial Direct employee could secure may surprise you.
- Finder.com, 2019
- StudentAid.gov, 2020
What type of retirement plan does MSC Industrial Direct offer to its employees?
MSC Industrial Direct offers a 401(k) retirement savings plan to its employees.
How can employees at MSC Industrial Direct enroll in the 401(k) plan?
Employees at MSC Industrial Direct can enroll in the 401(k) plan through the company’s HR portal or by contacting the HR department for assistance.
Does MSC Industrial Direct offer matching contributions to the 401(k) plan?
Yes, MSC Industrial Direct offers a matching contribution to the 401(k) plan, which helps employees grow their retirement savings.
What is the vesting schedule for the 401(k) matching contributions at MSC Industrial Direct?
The vesting schedule for matching contributions at MSC Industrial Direct typically follows a graded vesting schedule, which means employees earn ownership of the contributions over time.
Can employees at MSC Industrial Direct contribute to their 401(k) on a pre-tax basis?
Yes, employees at MSC Industrial Direct can make pre-tax contributions to their 401(k) plan, reducing their taxable income.
What is the maximum contribution limit for the 401(k) plan at MSC Industrial Direct?
The maximum contribution limit for the 401(k) plan at MSC Industrial Direct follows the IRS guidelines, which are updated annually.
Are there options for Roth contributions in MSC Industrial Direct's 401(k) plan?
Yes, MSC Industrial Direct offers employees the option to make Roth contributions to their 401(k) plan, allowing for tax-free withdrawals in retirement.
What investment options are available in MSC Industrial Direct's 401(k) plan?
MSC Industrial Direct's 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and other investment vehicles.
How often can employees at MSC Industrial Direct change their 401(k) contribution amounts?
Employees at MSC Industrial Direct can change their 401(k) contribution amounts at any time, subject to the plan's guidelines.
What resources does MSC Industrial Direct provide to help employees understand their 401(k) options?
MSC Industrial Direct provides educational resources, including workshops, online tools, and access to financial advisors to help employees understand their 401(k) options.