Are you finding it difficult to manage your energy expenses? The Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E) CARE program, also known as the California Alternate Rates for Energy program, is designed to offer significant financial relief to eligible low-income households in California. This state-sponsored initiative provides substantial discounts on both electricity and natural gas bills, helping families reduce their monthly expenses.
The CARE program ensures that qualifying customers receive a discount of 30-35 percent on their electric bills and a 20 percent discount on their natural gas bills. These savings can make a considerable difference, freeing up household budgets for other essential needs.
Who is Eligible for the PG&E CARE Program?
Eligibility for the PG&E CARE program is primarily based on household income. If your total household income falls at or below the specified income limits, you are likely to qualify. These income limits are updated annually to reflect changes in the cost of living.
Current CARE Income Guidelines (Effective Through May 31, 2025)
| 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 |
Note: These income guidelines are effective from June 1, 2024, to May 31, 2025.
Beyond income, you may also be eligible for the PG&E CARE program if you are currently enrolled in certain public assistance programs. These programs demonstrate a qualifying need and automatically make you eligible for CARE. Qualifying public assistance programs include:
- Medicaid/Medi-Cal
- Women, Infants and Children Program (WIC)
- Healthy Families A & B
- National School Lunch Program’s Free Lunch Program (NSLP)
- Food Stamps/Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (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 simplifies the CARE application process and ensures that those already receiving assistance can also benefit from reduced energy costs.
How to Apply for the PG&E CARE Program
Applying for the PG&E CARE program is straightforward. The easiest way to begin is to visit the official PG&E website dedicated to the CARE program. You can find the application form and detailed instructions online.
Quick Links to CARE Program Information:
| Utility Provider | CARE Program Website | Emergency Payment Assistance Phone |
|---|---|---|
| PG&E | CARE | 866-743-2273 |
| Edison | CARE | 866-675-6623 |
| SDG&E | CARE | 800-411-7343 |
| SoCalGas | CARE | 800-427-2200 |
| Alpine Nat’l Gas | PROGRAMS | 209-772-3006 |
| Bear Valley Elect | CARE | 800-808-2837 |
| PacifiCorp | Financial Assistance | 888-221-7070 |
| Liberty Utilities | CARE | 800-782-2506 |
| Southwest Gas | Special Programs | 877-860-6020 |
| West Coast Gas | CARE | 916-364-4100 |
You can also request an application form and further information by contacting PG&E directly or visiting one of the numerous community agencies that distribute CARE applications. These agencies are familiar with the program and can assist you with the application process.
Understanding the Funding of CARE
The PG&E CARE program is funded through a small surcharge applied to the utility bills of non-CARE customers. This mechanism ensures the sustainability of the program and allows it to continue providing crucial support to low-income households without relying on direct taxpayer funding. The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) oversees the CARE program and ensures its proper implementation across the state.
The Low-Income Oversight Board (LIOB) advises the CPUC on low-income energy assistance programs, ensuring these programs effectively serve the needs of California residents.
Explore Additional Assistance: The Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) Program
For families whose income slightly exceeds the CARE program limits, the Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) program offers another avenue for savings. FERA provides an 18% discount on electricity bills for eligible customers of PG&E, Southern California Edison, and San Diego Gas and Electric Company.
FERA Income Guidelines (Effective Through May 31, 2025)
| Household Size | 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 |
Note: These income guidelines are effective through May 31, 2025.
If your household income is slightly above the CARE limits but still within the FERA guidelines, you should investigate the FERA program to see if you qualify for these additional savings. Contact your electric utility provider for detailed information on FERA and other assistance programs that may be available to you.
By taking advantage of programs like CARE and FERA, eligible California residents can significantly reduce their energy bills and improve their financial stability.
