Are you finding it difficult to manage your energy bills in California? The California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) program is designed to help low-income households like yours. This state-sponsored initiative offers significant discounts on your electricity and natural gas bills, making energy more affordable. This guide will explain everything you need to know about the CARE program, including eligibility, benefits, and How To Care Program application process.
Understanding the California CARE Program
The CARE program provides a substantial discount to eligible customers, specifically a 30-35 percent discount on electric bills and a 20 percent discount on natural gas bills. These discounts are crucial for households struggling to keep up with utility costs. Funded through a surcharge on other utility customers’ bills, CARE is overseen and regulated by the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC). This ensures that the program effectively supports those who need it most.
Who is Eligible for the CARE Program?
Eligibility for the CARE program is primarily based on household income. If your total household income falls at or below the specified income limits, you are likely eligible. These income limits are updated annually to reflect changes in the cost of living, ensuring the program remains accessible to those it is intended to serve. The current income guidelines are effective through May 31, 2025.
CARE Income Guidelines*
| 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 |
| * Effective June 1, 2024 to May 31, 2025 |
Alt text: CARE Income Guidelines for California Energy Assistance Program. Table showing household size and corresponding income eligibility upper limits for the CARE program, effective June 1, 2024 to May 31, 2025.
Beyond income, you may also qualify for CARE if you are enrolled in certain public assistance programs. Enrollment in these programs automatically qualifies you for CARE, streamlining the application process. These qualifying 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
Exploring the Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) Program
For families whose income slightly exceeds the CARE limits, the Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) program offers another avenue for relief. FERA provides an 18% discount on electricity bills. It’s specifically designed for customers of Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E), Southern California Edison (Edison), and San Diego Gas and Electric Company (SDG&E). FERA acts as a safety net, extending assistance to households that are just above the CARE income thresholds but still need help managing energy costs. Like CARE, FERA income limits are also updated.
Household Income Limits for CARE/ESAP and FERA
| 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 |
Alt text: FERA and CARE Income Guidelines Comparison Table for California Energy Assistance Programs. Table comparing income limits for CARE/ESAP and FERA programs based on household size.
How to Apply for the CARE Program and FERA
To how to care program and FERA enrollment, the most direct approach is to contact your utility company. They will provide you with application forms and detailed information specific to your service area. Many utility companies also offer online applications through their websites, making the process even more convenient. Additionally, application assistance may be available through various community agencies in your locality.
Utility Contact Information for Energy Assistance Programs
| Utility | Emergency Payment | Website |
|---|---|---|
| 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 |
Alt text: Utility Contact Information for California CARE and FERA Programs. Table listing utility companies, emergency payment phone numbers, and website links for CARE and FERA applications.
If you need further assistance or have questions about low-income energy programs in California, you can also reach out to the Low-Income Oversight Board (LIOB). The LIOB advises the CPUC on energy assistance programs and can provide valuable insights.
Conclusion
The California CARE and FERA programs are vital resources for helping eligible households manage their energy expenses. By providing substantial discounts on electricity and gas bills, these programs ensure that essential energy services remain accessible and affordable. If you believe you may qualify, reach out to your utility provider today to learn more about how to care program and start your application process. Don’t let high energy costs strain your budget – explore these valuable California assistance programs.
