The California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) program is designed to provide significant financial relief to low-income households by offering substantial discounts on their utility bills. Specifically, enrolled customers benefit from a 30-35 percent reduction on their electricity costs and a 20 percent discount on natural gas bills. This program is a critical resource for those who qualify based on their Care Program Income levels and other eligibility criteria.
Who Qualifies for the CARE Program Based on Income?
Eligibility for the CARE program is primarily determined by household size and total gross annual care program income. The program sets upper limits on income to ensure assistance reaches those who need it most. As of June 1, 2024, the income guidelines are effective through May 31, 2025, and are structured 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 |
These care program income thresholds are reviewed and potentially adjusted annually to reflect changes in inflation and the cost of living, ensuring the program remains responsive to the economic needs of California residents.
Additional Eligibility Pathways for CARE
Beyond meeting the care program income requirements, households may also qualify for CARE if a member is enrolled in certain public assistance programs. These programs indicate a level of financial need that aligns with the CARE program’s objectives. Qualifying public assistance 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 makes a household eligible for CARE, irrespective of their gross annual care program income as long as other household criteria are met.
Understanding the CARE Discount and How to Apply
The CARE program provides a significant discount, specifically 30-35% on electric bills for customers of larger electrical corporations, and 20% for smaller ones. All participants also receive a 20% discount on their natural gas bills. This financial assistance is funded through a surcharge on the bills of other utility customers, ensuring the sustainability of the program.
To apply for the CARE program and start saving based on your care program income eligibility, you should contact your utility company directly. Each utility provider has dedicated resources and application processes. You can reach out to them via phone or through their websites, which are listed below for your convenience:
| 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 |
By visiting these websites or calling the provided numbers, you can access application forms and get detailed guidance on how to demonstrate your care program income eligibility and complete the enrollment process.
Exploring the Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) Program
For families whose care program income slightly exceeds the CARE limits, California offers the Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) program. FERA provides an 18% discount on electricity bills and is available to customers of major 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 |
FERA serves as a crucial extension of energy assistance, ensuring that more families can manage their utility costs. If your household’s care program income is slightly above the CARE threshold, investigating FERA could lead to significant savings.
Conclusion: Leveraging CARE and FERA for Energy Bill Relief
Both the CARE and FERA programs are vital resources for California residents seeking assistance with their energy bills. Understanding the care program income guidelines and other eligibility criteria is the first step toward accessing these benefits. By reaching out to your utility provider and exploring these programs, eligible households can secure substantial discounts, making energy more affordable and contributing to greater financial stability. Don’t hesitate to contact your utility company today to learn more and apply.
