Are you struggling to keep up with your energy bills in California? The California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) program is designed to help eligible low-income households reduce their monthly electricity and natural gas expenses. If you’re looking for ways to save on your utility bills, understanding the CARE program is your first step towards relief.
What is the California CARE Program?
The CARE program is a state-initiated program offering significant discounts to eligible customers. Enrolling in CARE can lower your energy bills by providing a 30-35 percent discount on electricity and a 20 percent discount on natural gas. This substantial reduction can make a real difference in household budgets, allowing families to allocate funds to other essential needs. The program is funded through a surcharge on other utility customers’ bills, ensuring support for those who need it most.
CARE Program Benefits
- Substantial Discounts: Receive a 30-35% discount on your electric bill and a 20% discount on your natural gas bill, easing your financial burden.
- State-Supported Assistance: Funded by fellow utility customers, CARE is a stable and reliable program backed by the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC).
- Easy Application Process: Applying is straightforward, with options to contact your utility company directly or visit their websites. Community agencies also offer application assistance.
Who is Eligible for CARE?
Eligibility for the CARE program is primarily based on household income. However, enrollment in certain public assistance programs also automatically qualifies you for CARE, regardless of income.
Income Eligibility: Your total gross household income must be at or below the specified limits. These limits are updated annually to reflect changes in inflation and the cost of living.
Public Assistance Program Enrollment: You automatically qualify for CARE if you participate in any of the following programs:
- Medicaid/Medi-Cal
- Women, Infants and Children Program (WIC)
- Healthy Families A & B
- National School Lunch Program’s Free Lunch Program (NSL)
- CalFresh/SNAP (Food Stamps)
- 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
CARE Income Guidelines for 2024-2025
These income limits are effective from June 1, 2024, to May 31, 2025. If your household size and income fall within these guidelines, you are likely eligible for the CARE program.
| 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 |
How to Apply for the CARE Program
Applying for the CARE program is simple. The most direct way is to contact your utility company. Each utility company regulated by the CPUC has dedicated resources and application forms available.
Application Methods:
- Contact Your Utility Company: Call the numbers listed below or visit their websites to request an application form and get detailed instructions.
- Utility Websites: Most utility companies have dedicated CARE program pages on their websites where you can download applications and find more information.
- Community Agencies: Numerous community-based organizations also assist with CARE applications. Contact your local community service centers to inquire about assistance.
Understanding the Family Electric Rate Assistance (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 provides an 18% discount on your electric bill. It is available to customers of Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E), Southern California Edison (SCE), and San Diego Gas and Electric Company (SDG&E).
FERA Eligibility: FERA has higher income limits than CARE, designed for families who are just above the CARE income thresholds but still need help managing energy costs.
FERA Income Guidelines for 2024-2025
These income limits are also effective through May 31, 2025. Check if your household income qualifies for FERA.
| Household | 250% of Federal Poverty Guidelines (FERA) |
|---|---|
| 3 | $64,550 |
| 4 | $78,000 |
| 5 | $91,450 |
| 6 | $104,900 |
| 7 | $118,350 |
| 8 | $131,800 |
| Each Additional Person | $13,450 |
Contact Your Utility Provider for More Information
For detailed information about the CARE program, FERA, and application processes, please contact your utility company directly. Below are the contact details for major California utility providers:
| Utility | Emergency Payment Phone Number | Website for CARE Program |
|---|---|---|
| PG&E | 866-743-2273 | CARE |
| Edison | 866-675-6623 | CARE |
| SDG&E | 800-411-7343 | CARE |
| SoCalGas | 800-427-2200 | CARE |
| Alpine Nat’l Gas | 209-772-3006 | PROGRAMS |
| Bear Valley Elect | 800-808-2837 | CARE |
| PacifiCorp | 888-221-7070 | Financial Assistance |
| Liberty Utilities | 800-782-2506 | CARE |
| Southwest Gas | 877-860-6020 | Special Programs |
| West Coast Gas | 916-364-4100 | CARE |
Take control of your energy bills today. Explore the CARE program and FERA to see if you qualify for valuable discounts and start saving money now.
