Are you looking for ways to reduce your energy expenses? If you’re a low-income resident in California, the California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) program, particularly the Pge Care Program Application offered by Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E), can provide significant relief. This program offers substantial discounts on your monthly electricity and natural gas bills, making energy more affordable. Let’s delve into the details of the CARE program, focusing on how you can apply and benefit from these savings.
What is the California CARE Program?
The CARE program is a state-wide initiative designed to assist eligible low-income households with their energy costs. It’s available to customers of various utility companies throughout California, including PG&E, Southern California Edison, San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E), and SoCalGas, among others. For those enrolled, CARE provides a 30-35 percent discount on electric bills and a 20 percent discount on natural gas bills. These discounts are crucial for helping families manage their budgets and maintain essential services.
Who is Eligible for the PGE CARE Program Application?
Eligibility for the CARE program is primarily based on household income. However, enrollment in certain public assistance programs also automatically qualifies you. Let’s break down both categories:
Income-Based Eligibility
Your household income must be at or below specific income limits to qualify for CARE. These limits are updated annually to reflect changes in the cost of living. As of [Effective date of income limits from original article], the income guidelines are as follows:
| CARE Income Guidelines* |
|---|
| Household Size |
| 1-2 |
| 3 |
| 4 |
| 5 |
| 6 |
| 7 |
| 8 |
| Each Additional Person |
| * Effective June 1, 2024 to May 31, 2025 |
If your household size and income fall within these limits, you are likely eligible to apply for the PGE CARE program application and other utility CARE programs.
Program-Based Eligibility
Even if your income slightly exceeds the limits, you can still qualify for CARE if you are currently enrolled in any of the following public assistance programs:
- 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
Enrollment in any of these programs demonstrates your need and automatically makes you eligible for the energy bill discounts offered by CARE.
How to Submit Your PGE CARE Program Application
Applying for the PGE CARE program is a straightforward process. PG&E and other utility companies provide multiple avenues for application to ensure accessibility for everyone. Here’s how you can apply:
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Online Application: The most convenient method is to apply directly through the PG&E website. Visit the PGE CARE program page and look for the “CARE application” link. The online form will guide you through the necessary steps, requiring information about your household size, income, and any qualifying public assistance programs you participate in.
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Phone Application: You can request an application form and get assistance by calling PG&E directly at 866-743-2273. A representative will guide you through the application process and answer any questions you may have.
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Utility Company Websites: Besides PG&E, you can find information and application details on the websites of other California utility providers. Here are quick links to the CARE program pages for some major providers:
- Edison: CARE Application
- SDG&E: CARE Application
- SoCalGas: CARE Application
- Bear Valley Electric: CARE Application
- Liberty Utilities: CARE Application
- West Coast Gas: CARE Application
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Community Agencies: Application forms are also often available through various community agencies and organizations. These agencies can provide support and help you complete the application if needed.
Understanding the FERA Program: An Additional Assistance Option
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. It’s available to customers of PG&E, Southern California Edison, and San Diego Gas and Electric Company.
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 you don’t qualify for CARE due to income, explore the FERA program to see if it can provide the bill relief you need.
Take the Next Step Towards Energy Savings
The PGE CARE program application and the broader California CARE program are vital resources for low-income households seeking to manage energy costs. By understanding the eligibility criteria and application process, you can take advantage of these significant discounts. Don’t hesitate to contact your utility provider or visit their website today to begin your CARE program application and start saving on your energy bills. For more information on other assistance programs, always check with your utility company.
