Are you a San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E) customer looking for ways to save money on your energy bills? The Sdge Care Discount Program, also known as the California Alternate Rates for Energy program, is designed to help income-qualified households reduce their monthly expenses on electricity and natural gas. This valuable program offers significant discounts, making energy more affordable for those who need it most.
Understanding the SDGE CARE Discount Program
The SDG&E CARE program provides eligible customers with a substantial discount on their utility bills. Specifically, if you qualify for CARE, you can receive a 30-35 percent discount on your electric bill and a 20 percent discount on your natural gas bill. These discounts can make a real difference in your household budget, freeing up funds for other essential needs. This initiative is part of California’s commitment to ensuring affordable energy access for all residents, particularly those with lower incomes.
Eligibility for the SDGE CARE Program: Do You Qualify?
Eligibility for the SDGE CARE program is primarily based on your household income. If your total household income falls at or below the income limits outlined below, you are likely eligible to enroll. These income guidelines are updated annually to reflect changes in the cost of living.
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 |
Beyond income, you may also automatically qualify for the SDG&E CARE program if you are currently enrolled in certain public assistance programs. These programs include:
- 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 can streamline your CARE application process.
How to Apply for the SDGE CARE Program
Applying for the SDG&E CARE discount program is straightforward. The easiest way to apply is to visit the SDG&E website dedicated to bill assistance programs. You can find the CARE application and detailed information on their website.
SDG&E CARE Program Application Link
Alternatively, you can contact SDG&E directly to request an application form or ask any questions you may have about the program. Their customer service line for assistance programs is: 800-411-7343.
Application forms are also often available through various community agencies and organizations in your area. These agencies can also provide assistance in completing your application if needed.
Exploring Additional Support: The Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) Program
For families whose income slightly exceeds the CARE program limits, there is another option for energy bill relief: the Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) program. FERA offers an 18% discount on your electricity bill. While FERA provides a slightly smaller discount compared to CARE, it can still significantly reduce your energy expenses.
FERA has higher income limits than CARE, making it accessible to a broader range of moderate-income households. Here are the income guidelines 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 your income is slightly above the CARE limits, it’s worth checking if you qualify for the FERA program. Contact SDG&E to inquire about FERA eligibility and application process.
Take Advantage of the SDGE CARE Discount Program
The SDGE CARE discount program and the FERA program are valuable resources designed to help California residents manage their energy costs. If you believe you may be eligible for either of these programs, don’t hesitate to reach out to SDG&E or visit their website today. Reducing your energy bills can provide significant financial relief and help ensure access to essential energy services for your household.
