The rising cost of living can make essential bills, like energy, a significant burden, especially for low-income households. In California, assistance is available through the California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) program. If you’re a Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) customer, understanding What Is Pge Care Program and how it can lower your energy bills is crucial.
The CARE program is designed to provide a discount on your electricity and natural gas bills. Specifically, customers enrolled in CARE receive a significant discount of 30-35 percent on their electric bill and a 20 percent discount on their natural gas bill. This can translate to substantial savings, making energy more affordable for eligible households.
Who is Eligible for the CARE Program?
Eligibility for the CARE program is primarily based on your household income. The program has specific income limits that are updated annually to reflect changes in the cost of living. As of June 1, 2024, the income guidelines are effective through May 31, 2025, and 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 |
Beyond income, you may 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 makes you eligible for CARE, simplifying the application process.
How to Apply for the PGE CARE Program
Applying for the PGE CARE program is straightforward. The most direct way to apply is through the PG&E website. You can visit their CARE program page, which provides detailed information and an online application form.
Alternatively, you can request an application form and further information by contacting PG&E directly. Their customer service can guide you through the process and answer any questions you may have.
- PG&E Phone Number: 866-743-2273
CARE Programs with Other California Utilities
While this article focuses on what is PGE CARE program, it’s important to know that the CARE program is available throughout California with different utility providers. Here are contact details and website links for other major utility companies in California offering the CARE program:
| Utility | Emergency Payment | Website |
|---|---|---|
| Edison | 866-675-6623 | CARE |
| SDG&E | 800-411-7343 | CARE |
| SoCalGas | 800-427-2200 | CARE |
| Alpine Nat’l Gas | 209-772-3006 | PROGRAMS |
| Bear Valley Elect | 800-808-2837 | CARE |
| PacifiCorp | 888-221-7070 | Financial Assistance |
| Liberty Utilities | 800-782-2506 | CARE |
| Southwest Gas | 877-860-6020 | Special Programs |
| West Coast Gas | 916-364-4100 | CARE |
Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) Program
For families whose income slightly exceeds the CARE program limits, there’s another option: the Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) program. FERA provides an 18% discount on your electricity bill. FERA is available to customers of Southern California Edison, San Diego Gas and Electric Company, and Pacific Gas and Electric Company.
| Household Size | 250% of Federal Poverty Guidelines (FERA) |
|---|---|
| 3 | $64,550 |
| 4 | $78,000 |
| 5 | $91,450 |
| 6 | $104,900 |
| 7 | $118,350 |
| 8 | $131,800 |
| Each Additional Person | $13,450 |
If your income is slightly above the CARE limits, it’s worth checking if you qualify for FERA to still receive energy bill assistance.
Conclusion
Understanding what is PGE CARE program and other energy assistance options like FERA can significantly help low-income households in California manage their utility expenses. If you believe you are eligible for CARE or FERA, contact your utility company today to learn more and begin the application process. Don’t miss out on these valuable programs designed to make energy bills more affordable.
