Understanding the SDG&E CARE Program
The CARE program is designed to assist households with limited incomes by offering a significant reduction on their utility bills. Specifically, customers enrolled in the SDG&E CARE program receive a discount of 30-35 percent on their electric bills and a 20 percent discount on their natural gas bills. These discounts are crucial for making energy services more affordable and accessible for vulnerable populations.
This initiative is funded through a surcharge on other utility customers’ bills, reflecting a collective effort to support low-income communities in California. The program is overseen with guidance from the Low-Income Oversight Board (LIOB), ensuring that it effectively serves those in need.
SDG&E CARE Program Eligibility
Eligibility for the SDG&E CARE program is primarily based on household income. The income limits 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.
| CARE Income Guidelines* |
|---|
| Household Size |
| 1-2 |
| 3 |
| 4 |
| 5 |
| 6 |
| 7 |
| 8 |
| Each Additional Person |
| * Effective June 1, 2024 to May 31, 2025 |
Beyond income, you may also qualify for the SDG&E CARE program if you are currently enrolled in certain public assistance programs. These 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 application process and ensuring that those already receiving aid can also benefit from reduced energy costs.
SDG&E FERA Program: Additional Support for Families
For families whose income slightly exceeds the CARE program limits, the Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) program offers another avenue for relief. SDG&E also participates in the FERA program, which provides an 18% discount on electricity bills.
The income limits for FERA are set higher than CARE, targeting households that are still income-constrained but might not qualify for the deeper CARE discounts. The following table outlines the income limits for the FERA program:
| 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 |
FERA is specifically available to customers of major California utilities including SDG&E, Southern California Edison, and Pacific Gas and Electric Company. If your household income is slightly above the CARE limits, exploring the FERA program with SDG&E is a worthwhile step to reduce your electricity expenses.
How to Renew or Apply for SDG&E CARE
To apply for the SDG&E CARE program or inquire about renewal, the most direct approach is to contact SDG&E directly. You can reach them at 800-411-7343 for program information and application assistance.
Additionally, the SDG&E website provides comprehensive details about the CARE program, including application forms and further resources. Visiting the SDG&E CARE program page is an excellent way to start or continue your enrollment process.
Numerous community agencies also distribute application forms and offer support for those applying. These agencies are valuable resources for navigating the application process and understanding eligibility requirements.
