Are you finding it difficult to keep up with your energy bills? The California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) program is designed to help eligible low-income households reduce their electricity and natural gas expenses. This program offers significant discounts, making energy more affordable for those who qualify. If you’re looking to ease your financial burden, understanding the income guidelines for the CARE program is the first step towards potential savings.
Understanding the CARE Program and Income Eligibility
The CARE program provides a substantial discount on your utility bills. Enrollees typically receive a 30-35 percent discount on their electric bill and a 20 percent discount on their natural gas bill. This can significantly lower your monthly expenses and provide much-needed financial relief. Eligibility for CARE is primarily based on your household income, ensuring that assistance reaches those who need it most.
The following table outlines the income guidelines for the CARE program, effective through May 31, 2025. These income limits are updated to reflect current economic conditions and ensure the program serves the intended population.
| CARE Income Guidelines* |
|---|
| Household Size |
| 1-2 |
| 3 |
| 4 |
| 5 |
| 6 |
| 7 |
| 8 |
| Each Additional Person |
| * Effective June 1, 2024 to May 31, 2025 |
To determine if you qualify, check your household size and compare your gross annual income against these limits. For households larger than 8 people, add $10,760 for each additional person to the income eligibility upper limit.
Beyond income, you may also be eligible for CARE if you are currently 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 CARE program, regardless of your specific income level.
How to Apply for the CARE Program
Applying for the CARE program is straightforward. The first step is to contact your utility company. Each utility provider in California manages CARE applications for its customers. You can request an application form directly from them or often find it on their website.
The following table provides contact information and website links for major utility companies in California, making it easy for you to find the resources you need to apply for the CARE program:
| Phone Numbers and Websites for Energy Assistance Programs |
|---|
| Utility |
| PG&E |
| Edison |
| SDG&E |
| SoCalGas |
| Alpine Nat’l Gas |
| Bear Valley Elect |
| PacifiCorp |
| Liberty Utilities |
| Southwest Gas |
| West Coast Gas |
Visit your utility provider’s website or call the provided number to learn more about the CARE program and to begin your application process.
What if You Exceed the CARE Income Limits? Consider FERA
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 and is available to customers of certain utility companies like Southern California Edison, San Diego Gas and Electric Company, and Pacific Gas and Electric Company.
| 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 |
For more detailed information on FERA and to check your eligibility, contact your electric utility provider.
Take Action to Lower Your Energy Bills Today
The CARE program is a valuable resource for California residents struggling with energy costs. By understanding the income guidelines for the CARE program and taking the necessary steps to apply, you can significantly reduce your monthly utility bills. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your utility company today to explore your eligibility and start saving. Affordable energy is within reach – take advantage of the CARE program and ease your financial burden.
