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Healthcare Provider Update: Offers medical plans administered by Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield, with HSA options and wellness incentives 3. As ACA premiums increase, Spires employer contributions and preventive care tools help employees manage healthcare costs more effectively. Click here to learn more
Most Spire 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 Spire 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 Spire employee could secure may surprise you.
- Finder.com, 2019
- StudentAid.gov, 2020
What is the 401(k) plan offered by Spire?
The 401(k) plan at Spire is a retirement savings plan that allows employees to save a portion of their paycheck before taxes are taken out.
Does Spire offer a matching contribution for the 401(k) plan?
Yes, Spire offers a matching contribution to the 401(k) plan, which helps employees maximize their retirement savings.
How can Spire employees enroll in the 401(k) plan?
Spire employees can enroll in the 401(k) plan through the company’s HR portal or by contacting the HR department for assistance.
What is the eligibility requirement for Spire’s 401(k) plan?
To be eligible for Spire’s 401(k) plan, employees typically need to be full-time employees and meet a minimum service requirement.
What types of investment options are available in Spire’s 401(k) plan?
Spire’s 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, stocks, and bonds, allowing employees to diversify their portfolios.
Can Spire employees change their contribution percentage to the 401(k) plan?
Yes, Spire employees can change their contribution percentage at any time, subject to the plan’s guidelines.
What is the maximum contribution limit for Spire’s 401(k) plan?
The maximum contribution limit for Spire’s 401(k) plan is in accordance with IRS guidelines, which may change annually.
Does Spire allow for loans against the 401(k) plan?
Yes, Spire allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) balance, subject to specific terms and conditions outlined in the plan.
What happens to my 401(k) plan if I leave Spire?
If you leave Spire, you can choose to roll over your 401(k) balance to another retirement account, cash it out, or leave it in the Spire plan if eligible.
How often can Spire employees review their 401(k) statements?
Spire employees can review their 401(k) statements quarterly, and they can also access their account online at any time.
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