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PC Connection Employees: Unlock the Benefits of the Federal Student Grant Program for Your Family's Education

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Most PC Connection 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 PC Connection 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 PC Connection employee could secure may surprise you.

Finder.com, 2019

StudentAid.gov, 2020

What type of retirement plan does PC Connection offer to its employees?

PC Connection offers a 401(k) retirement savings plan to its employees.

When can employees at PC Connection enroll in the 401(k) plan?

Employees at PC Connection can enroll in the 401(k) plan during the initial enrollment period or during the annual open enrollment period.

Does PC Connection match employee contributions to the 401(k) plan?

Yes, PC Connection offers a matching contribution to employee contributions up to a certain percentage.

What is the vesting schedule for employer contributions at PC Connection?

The vesting schedule for employer contributions at PC Connection typically follows a graded vesting schedule over a period of years.

How can employees at PC Connection access their 401(k) account information?

Employees at PC Connection can access their 401(k) account information through the company's designated retirement plan website or portal.

What investment options are available in PC Connection's 401(k) plan?

PC Connection's 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options including mutual funds, target-date funds, and other investment vehicles.

Can employees at PC Connection take loans against their 401(k) savings?

Yes, employees at PC Connection may be able to take loans against their 401(k) savings, subject to specific plan rules.

What is the minimum contribution percentage required for employees at PC Connection to participate in the 401(k) plan?

The minimum contribution percentage required for employees at PC Connection to participate in the 401(k) plan is typically set at 1% of their salary.

Are there any penalties for withdrawing funds from the PC Connection 401(k) plan before retirement age?

Yes, there are generally penalties for withdrawing funds from the PC Connection 401(k) plan before reaching retirement age, unless certain conditions are met.

How often can employees at PC Connection change their contribution amount to the 401(k) plan?

Employees at PC Connection can change their contribution amount during the annual open enrollment period or as permitted by the plan.

With the current political climate we are in it is important to keep up with current news and remain knowledgeable about your benefits.

In 2024, PC Connection announced a restructuring plan that involves a reduction of approximately 5% of its workforce. The company also revised its 401(k) matching contributions, reducing the match percentage from 6% to 4%. This restructuring is part of a broader strategy to streamline operations and focus on high-growth areas.