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

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Most Vista Outdoor 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 Vista Outdoor 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 Vista Outdoor employee could secure may surprise you.

Finder.com, 2019

StudentAid.gov, 2020

What is the 401(k) plan offered by Vista Outdoor?

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

How does Vista Outdoor match employee contributions to the 401(k) plan?

Vista Outdoor offers a matching contribution to the 401(k) plan, which means that for every dollar an employee contributes, the company will match a certain percentage, up to a specified limit.

When can employees at Vista Outdoor enroll in the 401(k) plan?

Employees at Vista Outdoor can enroll in the 401(k) plan during their initial onboarding period or during the annual open enrollment period.

What types of investment options are available in Vista Outdoor's 401(k) plan?

Vista Outdoor's 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and company stock, allowing employees to choose based on their risk tolerance.

Is there a vesting schedule for the employer match in Vista Outdoor's 401(k) plan?

Yes, Vista Outdoor has a vesting schedule for the employer match, which means employees must work for the company for a certain period before they fully own the matched contributions.

Can employees take loans against their 401(k) at Vista Outdoor?

Yes, Vista Outdoor 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) if I leave Vista Outdoor?

If you leave Vista Outdoor, you have several options for your 401(k), including rolling it over into an IRA, transferring it to a new employer's plan, or cashing it out, keeping in mind the tax implications.

How often can employees change their contribution amounts to the Vista Outdoor 401(k) plan?

Employees at Vista Outdoor can change their contribution amounts at any time, subject to the plan's guidelines, typically during open enrollment or through specific requests.

Does Vista Outdoor provide financial education or resources for employees regarding the 401(k) plan?

Yes, Vista Outdoor offers financial education resources, including workshops and access to financial advisors, to help employees make informed decisions about their 401(k) plan.

Is there an automatic enrollment feature in Vista Outdoor's 401(k) plan?

Yes, Vista Outdoor may offer an automatic enrollment feature, where new employees are automatically enrolled in the 401(k) plan unless they choose to opt out.