Are you looking for ways to lower your electricity bill in California? If you are a low-income customer, the Edison CARE program could significantly reduce your energy expenses. Southern California Edison (Edison) offers the California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) program, providing substantial discounts to eligible households. This guide will explain how to apply for the Edison CARE program and save money on your electricity bill.
Understanding the Edison CARE Program
The Edison CARE program is designed to help income-qualified households manage their energy costs. Enrolling in CARE can provide you with a 30-35% discount on your electric bill. This discount can make a significant difference, helping families stay comfortable without worrying about high energy bills.
Eligibility for the Edison CARE Program
To be eligible for the Edison CARE program, your household income must be at or below certain limits. These income limits are updated annually, and the current guidelines are effective through May 31, 2025. Here are the income eligibility upper limits based on household size:
| Household Size | Income Eligibility Upper Limit |
|---|---|
| 1-2 | $40,880 |
| 3 | $51,640 |
| 4 | $62,400 |
| 5 | $73,160 |
| 6 | $83,920 |
| 7 | $94,680 |
| 8 | $105,440 |
| Each Additional Person | $10,760 |
Effective June 1, 2024 to May 31, 2025
Besides income limits, you can also qualify for CARE if you are enrolled in certain public assistance programs. These programs include:
- Medicaid/Medi-Cal
- Women, Infants and Children Program (WIC)
- Healthy Families A & B
- National School Lunch’s Free Lunch Program (NSL)
- Food Stamps/SNAP
- Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
- Head Start Income Eligible (Tribal Only)
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance
- Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) or Tribal TANF
If you participate in any of these programs, you automatically meet the eligibility criteria for the Edison CARE program.
How to Apply for the Edison CARE Program
Applying for the Edison CARE program is a straightforward process. Here are the steps you can take to apply:
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Visit the Edison Website: The easiest way to start your application is by visiting the official Southern California Edison website. Navigate to their assistance programs section and look for the CARE program information. You can find it by searching for “Edison CARE program” on their site or using keywords like “assistance programs” or “bill discounts”.
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Find the CARE Application Form: On the Edison CARE program page, you should be able to find a link to the application form. This form may be available as a downloadable PDF or as an online application.
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Complete the Application Form: Fill out the application form accurately and completely. You will need to provide information about your household size, income, and potentially documentation to verify your eligibility, such as proof of enrollment in a qualifying public assistance program or income verification documents.
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Submit Your Application: Once you have completed the application, submit it to Edison. You can usually submit the application online through their website, or you may need to mail a physical copy if you downloaded a PDF form. Check the application instructions for the correct submission method.
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Contact Edison Directly: If you prefer to apply offline or have questions, you can contact Edison directly. Call Edison’s dedicated CARE program phone number at 866-675-6623. Customer service representatives can provide application forms, answer your questions, and guide you through the application process.
What to Expect After Applying
After submitting your application, Edison will review it to determine your eligibility. The processing time can vary, so it’s essential to apply as soon as possible if you believe you qualify. Once approved, you will start receiving the CARE discount on your future electricity bills. Edison will notify you about the status of your application and when you can expect to see the discount applied to your account.
Explore Other Assistance Programs: FERA
Besides CARE, Edison also offers the Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) program. FERA provides an 18% discount on your electricity bill for households whose income slightly exceeds the CARE guidelines. If you don’t qualify for CARE due to income limits, you might still be eligible for FERA. Contact Edison to inquire about the FERA program and its application process.
Take Action Today
Lowering your energy bill is within reach with the Edison CARE program. By understanding the eligibility requirements and following the application steps outlined in this guide, you can take advantage of these valuable savings. Don’t hesitate to contact Edison directly or visit their website to begin your application and start saving money on your electricity costs today.
