Most Tesla 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 Tesla 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 Tesla employee could secure may surprise you.
- Finder.com, 2019
- StudentAid.gov, 2020
What type of retirement savings plan does Tesla offer to its employees?
Tesla offers a 401(k) retirement savings plan to its employees.
Does Tesla match employee contributions to the 401(k) plan?
Yes, Tesla provides a matching contribution to employee 401(k) plans, subject to certain limits.
What is the maximum employee contribution percentage allowed for Tesla's 401(k) plan?
Employees at Tesla can contribute up to the IRS limit, which is typically 100% of their salary up to a specified dollar amount.
Can Tesla employees choose between traditional and Roth 401(k) contributions?
Yes, Tesla offers both traditional and Roth 401(k) contribution options for employees.
How often can Tesla employees change their 401(k) contribution amounts?
Tesla employees can change their contribution amounts at any time, subject to plan rules.
What investment options are available in Tesla's 401(k) plan?
Tesla's 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and company stock.
Is there a vesting period for Tesla's 401(k) matching contributions?
Yes, Tesla has a vesting schedule for matching contributions, which typically requires employees to work for a certain period before they fully own the match.
Can Tesla employees take loans against their 401(k) savings?
Yes, Tesla allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) savings, subject to specific terms and conditions.
What happens to my Tesla 401(k) if I leave the company?
If you leave Tesla, you can roll over your 401(k) to another retirement account, cash it out, or leave it with Tesla, depending on the plan rules.
Are there penalties for early withdrawal from Tesla's 401(k) plan?
Yes, early withdrawals from Tesla's 401(k) plan may incur penalties and taxes unless specific conditions are met.