Are you looking for ways to reduce your energy expenses? If you’re a low-income resident in California, the could be your key to significant savings on your electricity and natural gas bills. This program, also known as the California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE), is designed to help eligible households manage their energy costs, ensuring essential services remain affordable.
What is the PG&E CARE Program?
The PG&E CARE program offers substantial discounts to qualifying customers. Participants can receive a 30-35% discount on their electric bill and a 20% discount on their natural gas bill. These discounts are funded through a surcharge paid by other utility customers, making it a community-supported initiative to assist those who need it most.
Who is Eligible for the PG&E CARE Program?
Eligibility for the CARE program is primarily based on your household income. If your total household income falls at or below the following limits, you are likely eligible. These income limits are effective through May 31, 2025:
| 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 |
Beyond income, you can also qualify for CARE if you are 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 makes you eligible for the PG&E CARE program.
How to Get the PG&E CARE Program Form
To apply for the PG&E CARE program, you will need to obtain and fill out the application form. Here’s how you can access the PG&E CARE program form:
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Online Download: The easiest way to get the form is to visit the official PG&E website. Navigate to their CARE program page, where you should find a link to download the application form in PDF format. You can typically find this by searching for “PG&E CARE program” on the PG&E website.
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Request by Phone: You can also request a PG&E CARE program form by contacting PG&E directly. Call their dedicated CARE program line at 866-743-2273. A representative will be able to assist you and mail a form to your address.
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Community Agencies: Numerous community agencies throughout California also distribute CARE program application forms. These agencies often work directly with low-income communities and can provide assistance with the application process. Check with local community centers or social services organizations in your area.
Filling Out Your PG&E CARE Program Form
The PG&E CARE program form will require you to provide information to verify your eligibility. Be prepared to provide:
- Household Information: Details about everyone living in your household, including their names and relationships to you.
- Income Verification: You will need to declare your household’s total gross annual income and may need to provide documentation to support this.
- Public Assistance Program Enrollment (if applicable): If you are qualifying through enrollment in a public assistance program, you may need to provide proof of enrollment, such as a benefit award letter or card.
- PG&E Account Information: Your PG&E account number and service address are necessary to link the discount to your bills.
Ensure you fill out all sections of the PG&E CARE program form accurately and completely. Incomplete or inaccurate information can delay the processing of your application.
Explore Additional Assistance: The 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 offers an 18% discount on your electricity bill. This program is available to customers of PG&E, Southern California Edison, and San Diego Gas and Electric Company.
| 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 |
Take Action Today
Lowering your energy bills is within reach. By obtaining and submitting your PG&E CARE program form, you can access significant discounts and manage your household expenses more effectively. Visit the PG&E website or call their CARE program hotline today to take the first step towards energy savings.
For more information on the CARE program and other assistance options, visit the official PG&E website.
