Are you a Southern California resident struggling with high natural gas bills? Relief is available through the Southern California Gas CARE (California Alternate Rates for Energy) program. This state-sponsored initiative is designed to help income-qualified households reduce their monthly gas expenses. If you’re eligible, you could receive a significant discount on your natural gas bill, making energy more affordable.
Understanding the Southern California Gas CARE Program
The CARE program is not exclusive to Southern California Gas, but they are a major provider in the region. It’s a statewide program overseen by the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) that mandates utility companies to offer discounted rates to eligible low-income customers. For Southern California Gas customers, this means substantial savings on your natural gas bills.
The primary goal of the CARE program is to ensure that essential energy services are accessible to all Californians, regardless of their financial situation. By providing a discount, CARE helps families manage their budgets and maintain comfortable living conditions.
Who Qualifies for SoCalGas CARE?
Eligibility for the Southern California Gas Care Program is primarily based on household income. The income limits are updated annually and are dependent on your household size. As of June 1, 2024, the income guidelines 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 |
Image alt text: CARE income eligibility guidelines table for Southern California Gas customers, detailing income limits based on household size, effective from June 1, 2024 to May 31, 2025.
Even if your income is slightly above these limits, you might still qualify if you participate in certain public assistance programs. These programs automatically qualify you for CARE, regardless of your specific income level. 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)
- 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
The CARE Discount on Your SoCalGas Bill
Enrolling in the CARE program can lead to significant savings. Customers enrolled in CARE receive a 20% discount on their natural gas bills from Southern California Gas. This discount can substantially lower your monthly expenses and provide much-needed financial relief.
How to Apply for the Southern California Gas CARE Program
Applying for the Southern California Gas CARE program is straightforward. The easiest way to apply is online through the SoCalGas website. You can also request an application form by phone or mail.
To apply or learn more, visit the official Southern California Gas CARE program website: https://www.socalgas.com/save-money-and-energy/assistance-programs/california-alternate-rates-for-energy
You can also contact SoCalGas directly for assistance with your application or to ask any questions you may have:
- Phone: 1-800-427-2200
Don’t miss out on these valuable savings. Check your eligibility today and apply for the Southern California Gas CARE program to reduce your natural gas bills.
Other CARE Programs in California
While this article focuses on the Southern California Gas CARE program, it’s important to know that CARE programs are available throughout California with different utility providers. Here are some links to CARE program information for other major utilities in California:
- PG&E CARE: https://www.pge.com/en_US/residential/save-energy-money/help-paying-your-bill/longer-term-assistance/care/care.page
- Southern California Edison CARE: https://www.sce.com/residential/assistance/care-fera
- SDG&E CARE: https://www.sdge.com/residential/pay-bill/get-payment-bill-assistance
- Bear Valley Electric CARE: https://www.bvesinc.com/customer-service/assistance-programs/california-alternate-rates-for-energy-program/
- Liberty Utilities CARE: https://california.libertyutilities.com/truckee/residential/my-account/my-bill/programs/california-alternative-rates-for-energy.html
- West Coast Gas CARE: https://www.westcoastgas.com/programs/c-a-r-e/
Understanding the Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) Program
If your household income slightly exceeds the CARE program limits, you may still be eligible for assistance through the Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) program. FERA offers an 18% discount on your electricity bill (note: FERA is for electricity, not gas). FERA is available to customers of PG&E, Southern California Edison, and SDG&E. Contact your electric utility to see if you qualify for FERA.
Disclaimer: As a content creator for carcodereader.store, I am providing information about energy assistance programs. Please contact Southern California Gas or your utility provider directly for the most up-to-date information and to confirm your eligibility.
