New Update: Healthcare Costs Increasing by Over 60% in Some States. Will you be impacted?

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

Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for Salesforce: Salesforce employees typically navigate their health benefits through various providers, depending on their specific plan choices. The primary healthcare coverage options often include large national insurers such as UnitedHealthcare, Anthem, and Aetna, which facilitate a range of services for employees. Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026: In 2026, Salesforce employees are likely to face significant healthcare cost increases as a perfect storm of factors converge. Premium rates for ACA marketplace plans are anticipated to surge, with some states experiencing increases of over 60%. This escalation is driven by rising medical costs, particularly for high-priced medications, alongside the potential expiration of enhanced federal premium subsidies. As a result, many employees could see their out-of-pocket expenses skyrocket, forcing them to reassess their healthcare options and budget for the financial impact ahead. Click here to learn more

Most Salesforce 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 Salesforce 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 Salesforce employee could secure may surprise you.

Finder.com, 2019

StudentAid.gov, 2020

What is the 401(k) plan offered by Salesforce?

The 401(k) plan at Salesforce is a retirement savings plan that allows employees to save a portion of their salary on a tax-deferred basis.

Does Salesforce offer a company match for its 401(k) plan?

Yes, Salesforce offers a company match for its 401(k) contributions, helping employees maximize their retirement savings.

How can Salesforce employees enroll in the 401(k) plan?

Salesforce employees can enroll in the 401(k) plan through the employee benefits portal during their onboarding or during open enrollment periods.

What are the contribution limits for Salesforce's 401(k) plan?

The contribution limits for Salesforce's 401(k) plan align with IRS guidelines, which may change annually. Employees should check the latest limits on the IRS website or through Salesforce's benefits resources.

Can Salesforce employees take loans against their 401(k) savings?

Yes, Salesforce allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) savings, subject to certain terms and conditions outlined in the plan documents.

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

Salesforce's 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and other investment vehicles to suit different risk tolerances.

How often can Salesforce employees change their 401(k) contribution amounts?

Salesforce employees can change their 401(k) contribution amounts at any time, subject to the plan's guidelines and payroll processing schedules.

When can Salesforce employees access their 401(k) funds?

Employees can access their 401(k) funds upon reaching retirement age, or in cases of hardship, termination of employment, or disability, following the plan's rules.

Does Salesforce provide financial education regarding its 401(k) plan?

Yes, Salesforce offers financial education resources and workshops to help employees understand their 401(k) options and make informed investment decisions.

Are there any fees associated with Salesforce's 401(k) plan?

Yes, there may be fees associated with managing the 401(k) plan, including administrative fees and investment management fees, which are disclosed in the plan documents.

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

Salesforce provides a defined contribution 401(k) plan with company matching contributions. Employees can contribute pre-tax or Roth (after-tax) dollars, and Salesforce matches 100% of the first 6% of eligible compensation. The plan includes various investment options such as target-date funds, mutual funds, and a self-directed brokerage account. Salesforce also offers an Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP) with a discount on company stock. Financial planning resources and tools are available to help employees manage their retirement savings.

Salesforce grants RSUs that vest over several years, giving employees shares of the company. Additionally, stock options are provided, allowing employees to purchase shares at a set price.