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Most Westinghouse Air Brake 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 Westinghouse Air Brake 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 Westinghouse Air Brake employee could secure may surprise you.
- Finder.com, 2019
- StudentAid.gov, 2020
What types of contributions can employees make to the Westinghouse Air Brake 401(k) plan?
Employees at Westinghouse Air Brake can make pre-tax and Roth (after-tax) contributions to the 401(k) plan.
Is there a company match for contributions made to the Westinghouse Air Brake 401(k) plan?
Yes, Westinghouse Air Brake offers a company match on employee contributions up to a certain percentage, which is detailed in the plan documents.
What is the eligibility requirement to participate in the Westinghouse Air Brake 401(k) plan?
Employees are eligible to participate in the Westinghouse Air Brake 401(k) plan after completing a specified period of service, typically 30 days.
How can employees at Westinghouse Air Brake enroll in the 401(k) plan?
Employees can enroll in the Westinghouse Air Brake 401(k) plan through the company’s HR portal or by contacting the HR department for assistance.
What investment options are available in the Westinghouse Air Brake 401(k) plan?
The Westinghouse Air Brake 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and company stock.
Can employees at Westinghouse Air Brake take loans against their 401(k) accounts?
Yes, Westinghouse Air Brake allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) accounts under certain conditions.
What happens to my Westinghouse Air Brake 401(k) account if I leave the company?
If you leave Westinghouse Air Brake, you can choose to leave your 401(k) account with the company, roll it over to another retirement account, or cash it out, subject to taxes and penalties.
Are there any fees associated with the Westinghouse Air Brake 401(k) plan?
Yes, there may be administrative fees and investment-related fees associated with the Westinghouse Air Brake 401(k) plan, which are outlined in the plan documents.
How often can employees change their contribution amounts to the Westinghouse Air Brake 401(k) plan?
Employees at Westinghouse Air Brake can change their contribution amounts at any time, subject to the plan’s guidelines.
Does Westinghouse Air Brake offer financial education resources for 401(k) participants?
Yes, Westinghouse Air Brake provides financial education resources and workshops to help employees make informed decisions about their 401(k) investments.
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