The California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) program offers substantial discounts on energy bills for eligible low-income households. If you are a Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) customer in California, understanding the CARE program can significantly reduce your monthly expenses. This article breaks down the eligibility requirements for the PG&E CARE program, helping you determine if your household qualifies for these valuable savings.
What is the PG&E CARE Program?
The PG&E CARE program is designed to assist low-income customers by providing a discount on their energy bills. Specifically, enrollees receive a 30-35 percent discount on their electric bill and a 20 percent discount on their natural gas bill. This discount is funded through a surcharge paid by other utility customers and aims to make energy more affordable for those who need it most.
Who is Eligible for the PG&E CARE Program?
Eligibility for the PG&E CARE program is primarily based on household income. There isn’t a requirement related to the percentage of time household members spend at the residence. Instead, the focus is on whether your total household income falls at or below specific income limits. Additionally, enrollment in certain public assistance programs can also qualify you for CARE, regardless of income level.
Income-Based Eligibility
The most common way to qualify for PG&E CARE is through income. These income limits are updated annually and are effective through May 31, 2025. The income thresholds vary based on the size of your household. Here are the current income guidelines:
PG&E CARE Income Guidelines (Effective June 1, 2024 to 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 |
These income guidelines are subject to change annually.
If your household income is at or below the income limit corresponding to your household size, you are likely eligible for the PG&E CARE program.
Program-Based Eligibility
Even if your income slightly exceeds the listed limits, you may still qualify for CARE if you are currently enrolled in one or more 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 automatically qualifies you for the PG&E CARE discount, regardless of your specific income level.
How to Apply for PG&E CARE
Applying for the PG&E CARE program is straightforward. To start the application process and get more detailed information, you should directly contact PG&E.
You can reach PG&E to request an application or inquire about the CARE program through the following methods:
- Phone: 866-743-2273
- Website: PG&E CARE Program Website
The PG&E website offers comprehensive information about the CARE program, including application forms and further details on eligibility criteria. You can also find application forms through various community agencies.
Other California Utility CARE Programs
PG&E is not the only utility company in California offering the CARE program. If you are a customer of another utility provider in California, you may also be eligible for similar energy bill discounts through their respective CARE programs. Here is a list of other utility companies and links to their CARE program information:
| Utility | Website |
|---|---|
| Edison | CARE |
| SDG&E | CARE |
| SoCalGas | CARE |
| Alpine Nat’l Gas | PROGRAMS |
| Bear Valley Elect | CARE |
| PacifiCorp | Financial Assistance |
| Liberty Utilities | CARE |
| Southwest Gas | Special Programs |
| West Coast Gas | CARE |
Conclusion
The PG&E CARE program is a valuable resource for low-income households in California, providing significant discounts on energy bills. Eligibility is determined by household income or enrollment in qualifying public assistance programs, not the percentage of time household members are at home. If you believe you may be eligible, contacting PG&E or visiting their website is the first step towards potentially lowering your energy costs. Take advantage of this program to make your energy bills more manageable.
