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Most Mueller Industries 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 Mueller Industries 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 Mueller Industries employee could secure may surprise you.
- Finder.com, 2019
- StudentAid.gov, 2020
What type of retirement plan does Mueller Industries offer to its employees?
Mueller Industries offers a 401k retirement savings plan to help employees save for their future.
Is there a company match for contributions made to the 401k plan at Mueller Industries?
Yes, Mueller Industries provides a company match for employee contributions to the 401k plan, enhancing the savings potential.
How can employees enroll in the 401k plan at Mueller Industries?
Employees can enroll in the 401k plan at Mueller Industries by completing the enrollment form available through the HR department or the employee portal.
What is the eligibility requirement to participate in Mueller Industries' 401k plan?
Employees at Mueller Industries are eligible to participate in the 401k plan after completing a specified period of service, typically outlined in the employee handbook.
Can employees at Mueller Industries take loans against their 401k savings?
Yes, Mueller Industries allows employees to take loans against their 401k savings, subject to the plan's terms and conditions.
What investment options are available in the Mueller Industries 401k plan?
The 401k plan at Mueller Industries offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, stocks, and bonds, allowing employees to diversify their portfolios.
How often can employees change their contribution percentage to the 401k at Mueller Industries?
Employees at Mueller Industries can change their contribution percentage to the 401k plan on a quarterly basis or as specified by the plan guidelines.
What happens to the 401k savings if an employee leaves Mueller Industries?
If an employee leaves Mueller Industries, they can roll over their 401k savings to another retirement account, withdraw the funds, or leave the savings in the current plan, depending on the plan's rules.
Does Mueller Industries provide educational resources for employees regarding their 401k plan?
Yes, Mueller Industries offers educational resources and workshops to help employees understand their 401k options and make informed investment decisions.
Are there any fees associated with the 401k plan at Mueller Industries?
Yes, there may be administrative fees associated with the 401k plan at Mueller Industries, which are disclosed in the plan documents provided to employees.