The California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) program is designed to help low-income households in California manage their energy bills. Administered by utility companies like San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E), CARE provides significant discounts on electricity and natural gas rates. A crucial aspect of applying for the SDG&E CARE program is demonstrating proof of income to confirm eligibility. This article will explain what you need to show as proof of income to qualify for the SDG&E CARE program and start saving on your energy costs.
Understanding the SDG&E CARE Program and Income Qualification
The SDG&E CARE program offers a substantial discount to eligible customers, specifically a 30-35% discount on electric bills and a 20% discount on natural gas bills. This can make a significant difference in household budgets for those struggling to afford energy costs. Eligibility for CARE is primarily based on your household income size and total gross annual income.
The income limits are updated annually to reflect changes in the cost of living. As of June 1, 2024, and effective through May 31, 2025, 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 |
Beyond income limits, you may also automatically qualify for CARE 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
Proving Your Income for SDG&E CARE
To successfully enroll in the SDG&E CARE program, you will need to provide documentation to verify your household income. While specific requirements can be confirmed directly with SDG&E, generally acceptable forms of proof of income include:
- Pay stubs: Recent pay stubs that show your gross income before deductions.
- Tax returns: Your most recent federal or state tax return.
- W-2 forms: Wage and Tax Statements from your employer.
- Social Security Administration documents: Benefit statements or award letters.
- Retirement or pension statements: Documents showing income from retirement funds.
- Unemployment or disability documentation: Official documents verifying unemployment benefits or disability income.
- Public assistance program documentation: If you qualify through enrollment in a program like SNAP or SSI, providing proof of enrollment can serve as income verification.
It’s important to gather the necessary documents before starting your application. When you apply for the SDG&E CARE program, you will typically be asked to submit copies of your proof of income documents along with your application form. You can apply online through the SDG&E website, or by downloading an application and submitting it via mail.
Other Energy Assistance Programs: FERA
If your household income slightly exceeds the CARE program limits, you might still be eligible for the Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) program. FERA offers a smaller discount, around 18% on your electric bill. FERA has higher income thresholds than CARE, making it an option for families who don’t qualify for CARE but still need assistance with energy costs.
| 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 |
Take the Next Step with SDG&E
Understanding the proof of income requirements is a key step in applying for the SDG&E CARE program. By preparing the necessary documentation, you can streamline your application process and move closer to receiving valuable assistance with your energy bills. For the most accurate and up-to-date information on required proof of income and the application process, it’s always best to visit the official SDG&E website or contact their customer service directly. They can provide specific guidance and help you determine your eligibility for CARE and other assistance programs.
Contact SDG&E for CARE program information: 800-411-7343 or visit SDG&E CARE Program Website.
