Are you struggling to keep up with your energy bills in San Diego? San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E) understands the challenges faced by many households and offers the California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) program to provide significant relief. If you’re looking for the and want to understand how this program can lower your monthly expenses, you’ve come to the right place. This guide will provide you with all the essential information about the SDG&E CARE program, including how to contact them and check your eligibility.
Understanding the SDG&E CARE Program
The CARE program is a state-mandated initiative designed to assist income-qualified households in California by offering substantial discounts on their energy bills. For SDG&E customers enrolled in CARE, this translates to a 30-35 percent discount on electric bills and a 20 percent discount on natural gas bills. These discounts can make a significant difference in managing your household budget and ensuring access to essential energy services.
The program is funded through a surcharge on other utility customers’ bills, ensuring that those who need assistance receive it. It’s a vital safety net for vulnerable populations and reflects California’s commitment to affordable energy access for all residents.
How to Contact SDG&E CARE Program – Phone Number and Other Options
Getting in touch with SDG&E to learn more about the CARE program or to apply is straightforward. The most direct way to speak with a representative is by using the SDG&E CARE program phone number:
SDG&E CARE Program Phone Number: 1-800-411-7343
This image shows the SDG&E website’s payment assistance page, highlighting resources like the CARE program. It visually reinforces the connection between SDG&E and bill assistance.
When you call this number, you can inquire about the CARE program, request an application form, and ask any questions you might have about eligibility and the application process.
Besides the phone number, SDG&E also provides online resources for the CARE program. You can visit their website at https://www.sdge.com/residential/pay-bill/get-payment-bill-assistance to find detailed information about the program, download application forms, and potentially apply online. Navigating their website and searching for “CARE program” is another effective way to access information and resources.
Checking Your Eligibility for the SDG&E CARE Program
Eligibility for the CARE program is primarily based on your household income. The program uses income guidelines 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:
| 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 |
If your household income falls at or below these limits, you are likely eligible for the SDG&E CARE program.
This image is a table displaying the CARE income guidelines, directly illustrating the income thresholds for different household sizes to qualify for the program.
Beyond 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 SDG&E CARE program, simplifying the application process.
Beyond CARE: Exploring Other SDG&E Assistance Programs
While CARE offers significant discounts, SDG&E also provides other assistance programs to support customers facing financial hardship. One notable program is the Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) program.
FERA is designed for families whose income slightly exceeds the CARE guidelines. It provides an 18% discount on electricity bills and is available to SDG&E customers, along with those of Southern California Edison and Pacific Gas and Electric Company. If your income is slightly above the CARE limits, it’s worth checking if you qualify for FERA.
To explore all available assistance programs, including FERA and emergency payment options, contacting SDG&E directly through the SDG&E CARE program phone number or visiting their website is the best course of action.
Take the Next Step Towards Energy Savings
If you believe you might be eligible for the SDG&E CARE program, don’t hesitate to take action. Call the SDG&E CARE program phone number at 1-800-411-7343 today to request an application or to ask any questions. Reducing your energy bills can significantly improve your financial well-being, and SDG&E’s CARE program is there to help. Explore the resources available and take advantage of the support you deserve.
