Are you a Southern California Edison (SCE) customer looking for ways to save on your energy bills? The California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) program, specifically the Socal Edison Care Program, offers significant discounts to eligible low-income households. This program can substantially reduce your monthly expenses, making energy more affordable.
Understanding the Socal Edison CARE Program
The CARE program is a state-wide initiative designed to help income-qualified households manage their energy costs. For Socal Edison customers, enrolling in CARE means receiving a discount of 30-35 percent on your electric bill and a 20 percent discount on your natural gas bill if you are also a SoCalGas customer. These discounts are crucial for families and individuals struggling to keep up with rising living costs.
This program is funded by a surcharge on all other utility customers’ bills, ensuring that those who need assistance receive it. The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) oversees these programs and sets the guidelines.
Who is Eligible for the Socal Edison CARE Program?
Eligibility for the Socal Edison CARE program is primarily based on household income. If your total household income falls at or below the income limits outlined below, you are likely eligible. These income limits are updated annually to reflect changes in the cost of living.
| CARE Income Guidelines* |
|---|
| Household Size |
| 1-2 |
| 3 |
| 4 |
| 5 |
| 6 |
| 7 |
| 8 |
| Each Additional Person |
| * Effective June 1, 2024 to May 31, 2025 |
Beyond income, you can also qualify for the Socal Edison CARE program if you are 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’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 automatically makes you eligible for CARE, simplifying the application process.
How to Apply for the Socal Edison CARE Program
To apply for the Socal Edison CARE program, the first step is to contact Southern California Edison directly. You can request an application form and get detailed information about the program through their customer service channels.
Southern California Edison: 866-675-6623
CARE Program Website
Visiting the Socal Edison website dedicated to the CARE program is also a great way to start. Their website provides comprehensive information, downloadable application forms, and answers to frequently asked questions.
While Socal Edison is a primary provider, the CARE program is available through various utility companies across California. Here’s a list of other utility companies offering the CARE program, should you be located outside of Southern California Edison’s service area:
| Phone Numbers and Websites for Energy Assistance Programs |
|---|
| Utility |
| PG&E |
| Edison |
| SDG&E |
| SoCalGas |
| Alpine Nat’l Gas |
| Bear Valley Elect |
| PacifiCorp |
| Liberty Utilities |
| Southwest Gas |
| West Coast Gas |
Community agencies also often have CARE program applications available. These agencies can provide assistance with the application process and answer any questions you may have.
What is 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 your electricity bill. It’s available to customers of Southern California Edison, San Diego Gas and Electric Company, and Pacific Gas and Electric Company.
| Household | 200% of Federal Poverty Guidelines (CARE/ESAP) +1 | 250% of Federal Poverty Guidelines (FERA) |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | $51,641 | $64,550 |
| 4 | $62,401 | $78,000 |
| 5 | $73,161 | $91,450 |
| 6 | $83,921 | $104,900 |
| 7 | $94,681 | $118,350 |
| 8 | $105,441 | $131,800 |
| Each Additional Person | $10,760 | $13,450 |
If you think your income might be too high for CARE but still need assistance, check the FERA income guidelines and contact your utility provider to see if you qualify.
Start Saving with Socal Edison CARE Today
The Socal Edison CARE program and the FERA program are valuable resources for California residents struggling with energy costs. If you believe you are eligible for the Socal Edison CARE program, don’t hesitate to reach out to Socal Edison or visit their website to begin your application. Reducing your energy bills can free up your budget for other essential needs. Take advantage of these programs and start saving today!
