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

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Most Peabody Energy 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 Peabody Energy 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 Peabody Energy employee could secure may surprise you.

Finder.com, 2019

StudentAid.gov, 2020

What is the primary purpose of Peabody Energy's 401(k) Savings Plan?

The primary purpose of Peabody Energy's 401(k) Savings Plan is to help employees save for retirement by allowing them to contribute a portion of their salary on a pre-tax basis.

How can employees at Peabody Energy enroll in the 401(k) Savings Plan?

Employees at Peabody Energy can enroll in the 401(k) Savings Plan by completing the enrollment process through the company's benefits portal or by contacting the HR department for assistance.

Does Peabody Energy offer a company match for 401(k) contributions?

Yes, Peabody Energy offers a company match for 401(k) contributions, which helps employees increase their retirement savings.

What is the maximum contribution limit for Peabody Energy's 401(k) Savings Plan?

The maximum contribution limit for Peabody Energy's 401(k) Savings Plan is determined by the IRS and may change annually; employees should check the current limits for the specific year.

Can employees at Peabody Energy change their contribution percentage at any time?

Yes, employees at Peabody Energy can change their contribution percentage at any time, typically through the benefits portal or by contacting HR.

What investment options are available in Peabody Energy's 401(k) Savings Plan?

Peabody Energy's 401(k) Savings Plan 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 company match in Peabody Energy's 401(k) Savings Plan?

Yes, Peabody Energy has a vesting schedule for the company match, meaning employees must work for the company for a certain period before they fully own the matched contributions.

How can employees at Peabody Energy access their 401(k) account information?

Employees at Peabody Energy can access their 401(k) account information through the company's benefits portal or by contacting the plan administrator.

What happens to Peabody Energy's 401(k) Savings Plan if an employee leaves the company?

If an employee leaves Peabody Energy, they have several options for their 401(k) savings, including rolling it over to another retirement account, cashing it out, or leaving it in the Peabody Energy plan if allowed.

Are there loans available against the 401(k) balance at Peabody Energy?

Yes, Peabody Energy's 401(k) Savings Plan may allow employees to take loans against their account balance, subject to specific terms and conditions.

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

Peabody Energy announced significant restructuring plans in 2024, including job cuts and the closure of some mining operations. This decision aims to streamline operations and reduce costs amid fluctuating coal prices.