Are you struggling with high energy bills in California? You might be eligible for the California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) program, which offers significant discounts on your electricity and natural gas bills. For Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) customers, understanding how to apply for the CARE program can lead to substantial savings. This guide will walk you through the process, eligibility requirements, and what you need to do to enroll in the PG&E CARE program.
Understanding the CARE Program and its Benefits
The CARE program is designed to help low-income households manage their energy costs. If you qualify, you can receive a 30-35% discount on your electric bill and a 20% discount on your natural gas bill. These discounts can make a real difference in your monthly expenses, allowing you to allocate your budget to other essential needs. This program is available across California, but this guide will specifically focus on applying through PG&E.
Checking Your Eligibility for PG&E CARE
Eligibility for the PG&E CARE program is primarily based on your household income. As of June 1, 2024, the income limits are as follows:
| 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 |
These income limits are effective until May 31, 2025, and are subject to change annually based on inflation. If your household income falls at or below these limits, you are likely eligible for the CARE program.
Besides income, 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
Enrollment in any of these programs automatically qualifies you for the PG&E CARE program, regardless of your specific income level.
Step-by-Step Guide to Apply for PG&E CARE
Applying for the PG&E CARE program is a straightforward process. You have several options to apply: online, by phone, or by mail. Here’s a detailed guide for each method:
1. Apply Online
The easiest and fastest way to apply is through the PG&E website.
- Visit the PG&E CARE Program Website: Go to the PG&E CARE program page.
- Find the Application: Look for the “Apply Now” or “Enroll Now” button, usually prominently displayed on the page.
- Create an Account or Log In: You may need to create a PG&E online account or log in if you already have one. This will allow you to track your application status.
- Fill Out the Online Application: The online application will ask for information about your household size, income, and enrollment in public assistance programs. Ensure you have your household income information and details about any qualifying public assistance programs handy.
- Submit Your Application: Once you have filled out all the required fields, review your application and submit it electronically.
2. Apply by Phone
If you prefer to apply over the phone, you can contact PG&E directly.
- Call PG&E: Dial 866-743-2273 to reach PG&E’s customer service for CARE program applications.
- Request a CARE Application: Inform the representative that you would like to apply for the CARE program.
- Provide Required Information: The representative will guide you through the application process over the phone and ask for the necessary information, similar to the online application.
3. Apply by Mail
If you prefer a paper application, you can request one to be mailed to you.
- Request a Mail-In Application: You can request a CARE program application form by calling PG&E at 866-743-2273 or by downloading it from their website and printing it.
- Fill Out the Application Form: Carefully complete all sections of the paper application form.
- Mail the Application: Mail the completed application form to the address provided on the form or on the PG&E website. Ensure you use the correct mailing address to avoid delays.
Required Information for Your Application
Regardless of how you choose to apply, you will need to provide certain information to complete your CARE program application. This typically includes:
- Applicant Information: Name, address, phone number, and PG&E account number.
- Household Size: The total number of people living in your household.
- Household Income: Information about your household’s total gross annual income. You may need to provide documentation to verify your income.
- Enrollment in Public Assistance Programs (if applicable): If you qualify through participation in a public assistance program, you will need to specify which program and may need to provide proof of enrollment.
What Happens After You Apply?
Once you submit your application, PG&E will review it to determine your eligibility. The processing time can vary, but it generally takes a few weeks.
- Confirmation: You will receive a notification from PG&E confirming receipt of your application.
- Eligibility Determination: PG&E will inform you whether your application has been approved or denied. If approved, the CARE discount will be applied to your future bills.
- Discount Application: Once enrolled, you will start seeing the CARE discount on your PG&E bills. The discount will typically appear as a line item on your monthly statement.
Explore the Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) Program
If your household income slightly exceeds the CARE program limits, you might still be eligible for the Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) program. FERA offers a lower discount of 18% on your electricity bill. It has slightly higher income limits than CARE and is available to customers of PG&E, Southern California Edison, and San Diego Gas and Electric Company. Contact PG&E to inquire about FERA if you think you might qualify.
Contact PG&E for More Information
If you have any questions or need further assistance with your CARE program application, don’t hesitate to contact PG&E directly.
- Phone: 866-743-2273
- Website: PG&E CARE Program
Applying for the PG&E CARE program can significantly reduce your energy bills and provide much-needed financial relief. Take advantage of this valuable program if you are eligible and start saving today!
