Healthcare Provider Update: Williams provides medical coverage through UnitedHealthcare, including preventive care, chronic condition support, and fertility services. Employees also receive HSA contributions and access to FSAs 4. As ACA premiums surge, Williamss consumer-driven plans and wellness incentives offer a strong buffer against rising healthcare expenses. Click here to learn more
Most Williams 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 Williams 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 Williams employee could secure may surprise you.
- Finder.com, 2019
- StudentAid.gov, 2020
What types of retirement savings plans does Williams offer to its employees?
Williams offers a 401(k) retirement savings plan to help employees save for their future.
Does Williams match employee contributions to the 401(k) plan?
Yes, Williams provides a matching contribution to employee 401(k) plans, which enhances the overall savings potential.
What is the eligibility requirement for employees to participate in the Williams 401(k) plan?
Employees are typically eligible to participate in the Williams 401(k) plan after completing a specified period of employment, usually within the first year.
How can employees at Williams enroll in the 401(k) plan?
Employees can enroll in the Williams 401(k) plan through the company’s HR portal or by contacting the HR department for assistance.
What investment options are available in the Williams 401(k) plan?
Williams offers a variety of investment options in its 401(k) plan, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and other investment vehicles.
How often can employees at Williams change their 401(k) contribution amount?
Employees at Williams can change their 401(k) contribution amount at any time, subject to plan guidelines.
Is there a vesting schedule for the employer match in the Williams 401(k) plan?
Yes, Williams has a vesting schedule for the employer match, which means employees must work for a certain period before they fully own the matched contributions.
Can employees take loans against their 401(k) balance at Williams?
Yes, employees at Williams may have the option to take loans against their 401(k) balance, subject to specific terms and conditions.
What happens to the 401(k) plan if an employee leaves Williams?
If an employee leaves Williams, they can either roll over their 401(k) balance to another retirement account, cash out, or leave the funds in the Williams plan if permitted.
Does Williams provide financial education resources for employees regarding the 401(k) plan?
Yes, Williams offers financial education resources and workshops to help employees make informed decisions about their 401(k) savings.
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