Are you struggling to keep up with your energy bills in California? You might be eligible for the California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) program, which offers significant discounts to low-income households. For PG&E customers, understanding how to enroll in CARE can lead to substantial savings on your monthly electricity and natural gas expenses. This guide will walk you through the process of signing up for the CARE program through PG&E, ensuring you have all the information you need to apply successfully.
Understanding the California CARE Program
The CARE program is designed to help eligible customers manage their energy costs by providing discounts on their utility bills. Specifically, those enrolled in CARE receive a discount of 30-35 percent on their electric bill and a 20 percent discount on their natural gas bill. This can make a significant difference in your household budget, allowing you to allocate funds to other essential needs.
Check Your Eligibility for PG&E CARE
Eligibility for the CARE program is primarily based on your household income. As of June 1, 2024, the income limits 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 until May 31, 2025, and are subject to change annually based on inflation.
Beyond income, you may also qualify for CARE if you are enrolled in certain public assistance programs. These 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
If you meet either the income guidelines or participate in one of these programs, you are likely eligible for the PG&E CARE program.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Sign Up for PG&E CARE
Signing up for the CARE program through PG&E is a straightforward process. You have several options to apply:
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Online Application: The easiest and fastest way to apply is through the PG&E website.
- Visit the official PG&E CARE program page: CARE.
- Click on the “Apply Now” button or similar call to action.
- You will be directed to an online application form. Fill out all the required fields accurately. This will include information about your household size, income, and whether you participate in any qualifying public assistance programs.
- Submit the online application.
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Phone Application: If you prefer to apply over the phone, you can contact PG&E directly.
- Call PG&E’s dedicated assistance line at 866-743-2273.
- Inform the representative that you would like to apply for the CARE program. They will guide you through the application process, asking you the necessary questions to determine your eligibility and complete your application over the phone.
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Mail Application: While less common, you can also request a paper application form.
- Contact PG&E using the phone number above or check their website for information on how to request a CARE program application form by mail.
- Once you receive the form, fill it out completely and accurately.
- Mail the completed application form to the address provided on the form or on the PG&E website.
What You’ll Need to Apply
To ensure a smooth application process, have the following information ready:
- PG&E Account Number: This can be found on your PG&E bill.
- Household Size: Know the number of people living in your household.
- Household Income Information: Be prepared to provide details about your household’s total gross annual income.
- Public Assistance Program Information (if applicable): If you are applying based on participation in a public assistance program, have proof of enrollment or your case number ready.
Additional Assistance Programs
Besides CARE, PG&E and California offer other programs to assist customers with their energy bills. One such program is the Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) program. FERA provides an 18% discount on electricity bills for families whose income slightly exceeds CARE guidelines. For more information on FERA and other assistance programs, visit the PG&E website or contact them directly.
Conclusion
Signing up for the CARE program through PG&E can significantly reduce your energy bills, making your household finances more manageable. By understanding the eligibility requirements and following the application steps outlined in this guide, you can take advantage of this valuable program. Don’t hesitate to reach out to PG&E directly for any questions or assistance during your application process. Take control of your energy costs today and explore the benefits of the CARE program.
