Are you struggling to keep up with your San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E) bills? Relief may be available through the California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) program. This initiative offers significant discounts to eligible low-income households, making energy more affordable. Specifically, CARE provides a 30-35% discount on your electric bill and a 20% discount on natural gas. This guide will explain how to qualify for the SDG&E CARE program and ease your energy expenses.
Understanding the SDG&E CARE Program
The SDG&E CARE program is designed to assist households with limited incomes in managing their energy costs. Funded by a surcharge on other utility customers’ bills, CARE ensures that financial hardship doesn’t prevent access to essential energy services. By enrolling in CARE, you can significantly reduce your monthly SDG&E bill, freeing up your budget for other necessities.
SDG&E CARE Program Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the SDG&E CARE program, you must meet certain eligibility requirements, which are primarily based on household income or enrollment in specific public assistance programs.
Income-Based Eligibility
Your household income must be at or below the specified limits to be eligible for CARE. These income limits are updated annually and are based on household size. The current income guidelines, effective through May 31, 2025, are detailed below:
| 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 |
If your total household income falls within these limits, you are likely to qualify for the SDG&E CARE program based on income.
Program-Based Eligibility
Even if your income slightly exceeds the income limits, you may still be eligible for CARE if you are currently enrolled in one or more of the following public assistance 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
Enrollment in any of these programs automatically qualifies you for the SDG&E CARE discount, regardless of your specific income level (as long as it is within the guidelines of those programs).
How to Apply for the SDG&E CARE Program
Applying for the SDG&E CARE program is a straightforward process. You can apply through several convenient methods:
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Online Application: Visit the SDG&E website and look for the CARE program section. You can typically find and complete the application form online.
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Phone Application: Contact SDG&E directly at 800-411-7343. A customer service representative can guide you through the application process and answer any questions you may have.
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Mail Application: You can request an application form to be mailed to you by contacting SDG&E or visiting community agencies that distribute CARE applications.
When applying, you will need to provide documentation to verify your income or enrollment in a qualifying public assistance program. Ensure you have the necessary documents ready to expedite your application.
Additional Assistance: Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) Program
If your household income slightly exceeds the CARE program limits, you might be eligible for the Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) program. FERA offers an 18% discount on your electric bill. Contact SDG&E to inquire about FERA eligibility and application if you believe your income is just above the CARE threshold.
Take the First Step Towards Energy Savings
Qualifying for the SDG&E CARE program can significantly reduce your energy bills and provide much-needed financial relief. Review the eligibility criteria, gather your documentation, and apply today. Don’t hesitate to contact SDG&E for assistance with your application or to learn more about the CARE program and other support options available to you. Start saving on your energy costs now!
