Are you struggling to keep up with your energy bills in California? You might be eligible for significant savings through the California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) program. This initiative provides crucial financial assistance to low-income households, helping them manage their electricity and natural gas expenses. This article will guide you through everything you need to know about the CARE program and how to navigate the Care Program Application process.
What is the California CARE Program?
The CARE program is designed to offer a substantial discount on energy bills for eligible low-income customers. If you qualify, you can receive a 30-35 percent discount on your electric bill and a 20 percent discount on your natural gas bill. These discounts are funded by a surcharge paid by other utility customers, ensuring that those who need assistance the most receive it.
To determine if you qualify and to begin your care program application, it’s essential to contact your utility company directly. They can provide you with the specific application forms and detailed information relevant to your service area. Here’s a list of major California utility providers and links to their CARE program pages:
| Utility | Emergency Payment Phone Number | CARE Program Website |
|---|---|---|
| PG&E | 866-743-2273 | CARE |
| Edison | 866-675-6623 | CARE |
| SDG&E | 800-411-7343 | CARE |
| SoCalGas | 800-427-2200 | CARE |
| Alpine Natural Gas | 209-772-3006 | PROGRAMS |
| Bear Valley Electric | 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 |
Income Guidelines for CARE Eligibility
Eligibility for the CARE program is primarily based on household income. The income limits are updated annually and are effective until May 31, 2025. Here are the current income guidelines to determine if you can proceed with a care program application:
| 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 |
If your household income falls at or below these limits, you are likely eligible for the CARE program.
Additional Eligibility Pathways
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 CARE, simplifying the care program application process.
How to Complete Your Care Program Application
The most direct way to apply for the CARE program is through your utility company. You can visit their website (links provided in the table above) or contact them by phone to request an application form. Many community agencies also distribute care program applications and can offer assistance with the process.
The application will typically require you to provide:
- Proof of income (if applying based on income limits)
- Documentation of enrollment in a qualifying public assistance program (if applicable)
- Your utility account information
- Basic household details
Once you submit your care program application, your utility company will review it to determine your eligibility. Keep in mind that electrical corporations with a large customer base (over 100,000 accounts in California) offer a slightly higher discount (30-35%) compared to smaller corporations (20%).
Explore the Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) Program
If your household income slightly exceeds the CARE program limits, you might still be eligible for assistance through the Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) program. FERA provides an 18% discount on your electricity bill and is available to customers of PG&E, Southern California Edison, and San Diego Gas and Electric Company.
Here are the income limits for FERA, effective through May 31, 2025:
| Household Size | FERA Income Eligibility Upper Limit |
|---|---|
| 3 | $64,550 |
| 4 | $78,000 |
| 5 | $91,450 |
| 6 | $104,900 |
| 7 | $118,350 |
| 8 | $131,800 |
| Each Additional Person | $13,450 |
If you believe you might qualify for FERA, contact your electric utility company to inquire about the program and the care program application process, as FERA and CARE applications might be processed together or have similar application pathways.
Take Action and Apply Today
The CARE program and FERA are vital resources for California residents struggling with energy costs. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your utility company to learn more and begin your care program application today. Reducing your energy bills can significantly ease your financial burden and ensure access to essential energy services.
