Facing high energy bills can be a significant challenge, especially for households with limited income. The California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) program, specifically the PG&E CARE program, offers a crucial lifeline by providing substantial discounts on electricity and natural gas bills. If you are looking for the Pge Care Program Number or information about how this program can help you save, you’ve come to the right place.
The PG&E CARE program is designed to assist low-income customers in managing their energy costs. Qualifying households can receive a 30-35 percent discount on their electric bill and a 20 percent discount on their natural gas bill. These discounts can significantly reduce monthly expenses, making energy more affordable for eligible families and individuals throughout the Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E) service area.
PG&E CARE Program Eligibility: Income Guidelines
Eligibility for the PG&E CARE program is primarily based on household income. The program uses income thresholds that are updated annually to reflect changes in the cost of living. As of June 1, 2024, the income limits are effective through May 31, 2025, and are as follows:
| CARE Income Guidelines* |
|---|
| Household Size |
| 1-2 |
| 3 |
| 4 |
| 5 |
| 6 |
| 7 |
| 8 |
| Each Additional Person |
| * Effective June 1, 2024 to May 31, 2025 |
If your household income falls at or below these limits, you are likely eligible for the PG&E CARE program.
Additional Eligibility Pathways
Beyond income, you may also qualify for CARE if you are enrolled in certain public assistance programs. These programs indicate a need for financial support and automatically qualify you for CARE. 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 simplifies the CARE application process, as it provides automatic qualification.
Finding the PG&E CARE Program Number and Contact Information
To apply for the PG&E CARE program or to get more detailed information, contacting PG&E directly is the most effective step. You can reach them through multiple channels:
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PG&E CARE Program Number: For direct assistance and application requests, you can call PG&E’s dedicated line for energy assistance programs at 866-743-2273. This is your pge care program number to inquire about the program and application process.
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PG&E Website: Visit the PG&E website for comprehensive information about the CARE program, application forms, and other assistance options: CARE Program Information. The website provides detailed program descriptions, eligibility criteria, and downloadable application forms.
By using the pge care program number or visiting the website, you can access all the resources needed to apply for and benefit from the PG&E CARE program.
Exploring Other Energy Assistance Options: FERA
For families whose income slightly exceeds the CARE guidelines, the Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) program offers another avenue for savings. FERA provides an 18% discount on electricity bills for eligible customers of PG&E, Southern California Edison, and San Diego Gas and Electric.
| Household | 200% of Federal Poverty Guidelines (CARE/ESAP) +1 | 250% of Federal Poverty Guidelines (FERA) |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | $51,641 | $64,550 |
| 4 | $62,401 | $78,000 |
| 5 | $73,161 | $91,450 |
| 6 | $83,921 | $104,900 |
| 7 | $94,681 | $118,350 |
| 8 | $105,441 | $131,800 |
| Each Additional Person | $10,760 | $13,450 |
If you suspect you might be just over the CARE income limits, it’s worth checking the FERA guidelines to see if you qualify for this additional support.
Take Action to Reduce Your Energy Bills
Navigating energy costs can be stressful, but programs like PG&E CARE and FERA are in place to provide assistance. If you believe you are eligible for the PG&E CARE program, don’t hesitate to take the next step. Call the pge care program number at 866-743-2273 or visit the PG&E website today to learn more and begin your application. Reducing your energy bills and accessing the support you deserve is within reach.
