Are you a Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) customer looking for ways to lower your energy bills? The California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) program is designed to help income-qualified households save money on their monthly electricity and natural gas expenses. If you’re wondering exactly how much you can save with the PG&E CARE program, this guide will break down the discounts, eligibility requirements, and how to apply.
Understanding the PG&E CARE Program Savings
The CARE program offers significant discounts to eligible customers, making energy more affordable. Specifically, for PG&E customers enrolled in CARE, you can expect to receive:
- 30-35% discount on your electric bill: This substantial reduction can significantly lower your monthly electricity costs, especially during peak usage seasons.
- 20% discount on your natural gas bill: If you use natural gas in your home, you’ll also benefit from a considerable discount on your gas expenses.
These discounts are designed to ease the energy burden for low-income households in California, ensuring access to essential utilities without financial strain. The savings can truly add up over the year, freeing up your budget for other important needs.
Who is Eligible for PG&E CARE?
Eligibility for the CARE program is primarily based on your household income. The program uses income thresholds that are updated annually to reflect changes in the cost of living. As of June 1, 2024, the income limits to qualify for CARE 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 |
These income limits are effective through May 31, 2025.
Beyond income, you can also qualify 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)
- 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
Enrollment in any of these programs automatically qualifies you for the PG&E CARE program, simplifying the application process.
Maximizing Your Savings with CARE and FERA
While CARE provides substantial discounts, there’s another program called the Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) program that can help families whose income slightly exceeds the CARE limits. FERA offers an 18% discount on your electricity bill. FERA is available to PG&E customers, as well as Southern California Edison and San Diego Gas and Electric Company customers.
Here are the income limits for the FERA program, effective through May 31, 2025:
| 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 |
If your income is slightly above the CARE guidelines but falls within the FERA limits, you should definitely explore the FERA program to still receive significant energy bill assistance.
How to Apply for PG&E CARE Program
Applying for the PG&E CARE program is straightforward. The easiest way to apply is to visit the PG&E CARE program website. You can also request an application or get more information by contacting PG&E directly:
- Phone: 866-743-2273
- Website: PG&E CARE Program
Numerous community agencies also have CARE application forms and can assist you with the process. Don’t hesitate to reach out to PG&E or a local agency to start saving money on your energy bills today!
Take control of your energy costs and see how much you can save with the PG&E CARE program! Contact PG&E now to learn more and apply.
