As a content creator for cardiagnostictool.store and an automotive repair expert, I understand that managing household expenses is crucial. Unexpected car repairs can strain budgets, and so can rising utility costs. That’s why it’s important to be aware of programs designed to help alleviate these burdens. For California residents, especially those with lower incomes, the California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) program offers significant relief on energy bills. Let’s delve into what the CARE program is and how it can benefit you.
The California CARE program is a state-initiated program designed to assist low-income households in managing their energy expenses. Enrolling in CARE provides eligible customers with a substantial discount on both their electricity and natural gas bills. Specifically, participants receive a discount ranging from 30 to 35 percent on their electric bills and a 20 percent discount on their natural gas bills. This can translate to significant savings each month, freeing up funds for other essential needs, including vehicle maintenance and repairs.
Eligibility for the 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 to apply. These income limits are updated annually to reflect changes in the cost of living and are currently effective through May 31, 2025.
| **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 can also qualify for CARE 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’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 the CARE program, simplifying the application process.
To apply for the CARE program and start saving on your energy bills, you need to contact your utility company directly. Each utility company handles CARE applications and provides specific information for their customers. Below is a table with contact information and website links for major utility providers in California. You can visit their websites or call the provided numbers to request an application form and get detailed guidance on the application process.
| 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 |
It’s important to note that the CARE program is funded through a surcharge on the bills of other utility customers, highlighting a community effort to support low-income households. The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) oversees these programs and ensures that they effectively serve those in need. For additional oversight and guidance on low-income energy assistance programs, the California Legislature established the Low-Income Oversight Board (LIOB), which advises the CPUC.
Family Electric Rate Assistance Program (FERA)
For families whose income slightly exceeds the CARE program limits, there’s another valuable option: the Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) program. FERA provides an 18% discount specifically on electricity bills. It’s available to customers of Pacific Gas and Electric Company, Southern California Edison, and San Diego Gas and Electric Company.
The income limits for FERA are slightly higher than CARE, making it accessible to a broader range of families. Check the income guidelines below to see if you qualify for FERA. If your income falls within these ranges, contacting your electric utility is the next step to explore enrollment.
| Household Size | 200% of Federal Poverty Guidelines (CARE/ESAP) | 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 |
For more detailed information on both the CARE and FERA programs, and to discover other assistance programs that might be available to you, please contact your utility company directly. They can provide personalized guidance based on your specific situation and help you navigate the application process. Taking advantage of these programs can significantly ease your financial burden and ensure access to essential energy services.
