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Most Old Republic International 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 Old Republic International 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 Old Republic International employee could secure may surprise you.
- Finder.com, 2019
- StudentAid.gov, 2020
What is the 401(k) plan offered by Old Republic International?
The 401(k) plan at Old Republic International is a retirement savings plan that allows employees to save a portion of their salary on a pre-tax basis, helping them build a nest egg for retirement.
How does Old Republic International match employee contributions to the 401(k) plan?
Old Republic International offers a company match on employee contributions, which means that for every dollar an employee contributes, the company will match a certain percentage, up to a specified limit.
What are the eligibility requirements for Old Republic International's 401(k) plan?
Employees at Old Republic International typically become eligible for the 401(k) plan after completing a specified period of service, usually within the first year of employment.
Can employees of Old Republic International change their contribution rates to the 401(k) plan?
Yes, employees of Old Republic International can change their contribution rates to the 401(k) plan at designated times throughout the year.
What investment options are available in Old Republic International's 401(k) plan?
The 401(k) plan at Old Republic International offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and other investment vehicles to suit different risk tolerances.
Is there a vesting schedule for the employer match in Old Republic International's 401(k) plan?
Yes, Old Republic International has a vesting schedule that determines when employees fully own the employer contributions made to their 401(k) accounts.
How can employees of Old Republic International enroll in the 401(k) plan?
Employees can enroll in the 401(k) plan at Old Republic International by completing the necessary enrollment forms, which are typically available through the HR department or the company’s benefits portal.
What is the maximum contribution limit for Old Republic International's 401(k) plan?
The maximum contribution limit for Old Republic International's 401(k) plan is subject to IRS regulations, which may change annually. Employees should check the latest guidelines for the current limit.
Does Old Republic International offer a Roth 401(k) option?
Yes, Old Republic International offers a Roth 401(k) option, allowing employees to make after-tax contributions to their retirement savings.
What happens to my 401(k) savings if I leave Old Republic International?
If you leave Old Republic International, 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 Old Republic International plan if permitted.