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

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

Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for Waste Management Waste Management, Inc., a leading provider of waste collection, disposal, and recycling services in North America, partners with Cigna Healthcare to provide healthcare benefits to its employees. Cigna offers a range of health insurance plans, including medical, dental, and vision coverage, tailored to meet the needs of Waste Management's diverse workforce. Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026 As we approach 2026, Waste Management and its employees may face significant healthcare cost increases due to substantial projected hikes in health insurance premiums. The Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace is anticipating an average increase of over 20%, with certain states seeing hikes surpassing 60% as a result of rising medical costs and the potential expiration of enhanced federal premium subsidies. This combination of factors could lead to out-of-pocket premium costs soaring by more than 75% for many employees, placing additional financial strain on both the company and its workforce during the upcoming year. Click here to learn more

Most Waste Management 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 Waste Management 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 Waste Management employee could secure may surprise you.

Finder.com, 2019

StudentAid.gov, 2020

What is the 401(k) plan offered by Waste Management?

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

How can I enroll in Waste Management's 401(k) plan?

Employees can enroll in Waste Management's 401(k) plan through the company’s HR portal or by contacting the HR department for assistance.

Does Waste Management provide a company match for the 401(k) contributions?

Yes, Waste Management offers a company match for employee contributions to the 401(k) plan, which helps employees save more for retirement.

What is the maximum contribution limit for Waste Management's 401(k) plan?

The maximum contribution limit for Waste Management's 401(k) plan is in line with IRS regulations, which may change annually. Employees should refer to the latest IRS guidelines for current limits.

Can I change my contribution percentage to Waste Management's 401(k) plan?

Yes, employees can change their contribution percentage to Waste Management's 401(k) plan at any time by accessing their account through the HR portal.

When can I start withdrawing funds from my Waste Management 401(k) plan?

Employees can typically start withdrawing funds from their Waste Management 401(k) plan at age 59½, but specific conditions may apply.

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

Waste Management'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.

Is there a vesting schedule for Waste Management's 401(k) company match?

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

How can I access my Waste Management 401(k) account?

Employees can access their Waste Management 401(k) account online through the designated retirement plan website or mobile app.

What happens to my Waste Management 401(k) if I leave the company?

If you leave Waste Management, you have several options for your 401(k), including rolling it over to another retirement account, cashing it out, or leaving it in the Waste Management plan if permitted.