The California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) program is designed to help low-income customers in California afford their energy bills. If you are a Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) customer, understanding how to qualify for the CARE program can significantly reduce your monthly expenses. This program offers substantial discounts on both electricity and natural gas, making energy more affordable for eligible households.
The CARE program provides a discount of 30-35 percent on electric bills and 20 percent on natural gas bills for those who qualify. This financial assistance can be crucial for families and individuals struggling to manage their utility costs. Qualification for the PG&E CARE program is primarily based on household income or enrollment in certain public assistance programs.
Income-Based Eligibility for PG&E CARE
One of the main ways to qualify for the PG&E CARE program is through income. The program has specific income limits that vary based on household size. These income guidelines 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 |
To determine if you qualify based on income, you need to calculate your total gross household income, which includes the income of all residents in your household. If your total household income falls at or below the income limit corresponding to your household size, you are likely eligible for the PG&E CARE program.
Eligibility Through Public Assistance Programs
Even if your income slightly exceeds the stated limits, you may still qualify for the PG&E CARE program if you are enrolled in certain public assistance programs. These programs demonstrate a need for financial assistance and automatically qualify you for CARE. 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 you eligible for the PG&E CARE program, regardless of your specific income level, as long as you are a PG&E customer.
How to Apply for the PG&E CARE Program
To apply for the PG&E CARE program and start receiving discounts on your energy bills, you can visit the PG&E website or contact them directly. PG&E provides an online application form and additional information about the program on their website. You can also request an application form and get assistance by contacting PG&E directly:
- PG&E CARE Program Phone: 866-743-2273
- PG&E CARE Program Website: CARE
Applying is a straightforward process, and once approved, you will begin to see the discount reflected in your monthly PG&E bills. Take advantage of this program if you believe you qualify; it is designed to support eligible California residents in managing their energy costs effectively.
Contact PG&E today to learn more about the CARE program and start your application process.
