The California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) program is a vital initiative designed to help low-income households manage their energy expenses. As a homeowner or resident in California, particularly within Southern California Edison’s service area, understanding the Edison Care Program Requirements can unlock significant savings on your monthly utility bills. This program offers substantial discounts, making energy more affordable for eligible customers.
What is the Edison CARE Program?
The Edison CARE program, specific to Southern California Edison (SCE) customers, provides a crucial financial cushion through discounted electricity and natural gas rates. Qualifying households can receive a 30-35% discount on their electric bill and a 20% discount on their natural gas bill. These discounts are designed to lessen the burden of energy costs, ensuring access to essential utilities for those who need it most.
Edison CARE Program Requirements: Are You Eligible?
Eligibility for the Edison CARE program hinges primarily on two key factors: household income and enrollment in certain public assistance programs. Let’s break down these Edison CARE program requirements to help you determine if you qualify.
Income Limits for Edison CARE Program
The most direct path to qualifying for the Edison CARE program is by meeting specific income guidelines. These income limits are updated annually to reflect changes in the cost of living. As of June 1, 2024, the income thresholds are effective through May 31, 2025, and 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 |
If your total household income falls at or below these limits, you meet the income-based Edison CARE program requirements and are likely eligible to enroll.
Enrollment in Public Assistance Programs
Even if your income slightly exceeds the limits mentioned above, you may still qualify for the Edison CARE program if you are currently enrolled in certain public assistance programs. This pathway ensures that individuals and families already receiving aid can further benefit from reduced energy costs. Qualifying public assistance 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 fulfills the Edison CARE program requirements related to public assistance, making you eligible for the energy bill discounts.
How to Apply for the Edison CARE Program
Applying for the Edison CARE program is a straightforward process. Southern California Edison provides easy access to application forms and additional information. To begin your application, you can:
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Visit the SCE Website: The most convenient way to access information and application forms is through the official Southern California Edison website. Navigate to their CARE program page, specifically designed to provide details and resources for enrollment.
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Contact SCE Directly: You can also request an application form and ask any questions you may have by contacting Edison’s customer service directly. The dedicated phone number for energy assistance programs, including CARE, is 866-675-6623.
By utilizing these resources, you can easily obtain the necessary application and guidance to enroll in the Edison CARE program and start saving on your energy bills.
Exploring Additional Assistance: The FERA Program
For families whose income slightly exceeds the CARE program limits, the Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) program offers another avenue for energy bill relief. While FERA provides a smaller discount of 18% on electricity bills, it caters to households with slightly higher income levels that still need assistance managing energy costs.
FERA is available to customers of Southern California Edison, along with San Diego Gas and Electric Company, and Pacific Gas and Electric Company. If your income is above the CARE limits but you are still struggling with energy expenses, it’s worth investigating the FERA program requirements to see if you qualify for this additional support.
Contact Edison for More Information
Navigating energy assistance programs can seem complex, but Southern California Edison is committed to providing support and clarity. If you have any questions about the Edison CARE program requirements, the application process, or other assistance programs, don’t hesitate to reach out to SCE directly at 866-675-6623. Their representatives can provide personalized guidance and ensure you receive the help you need to manage your energy bills effectively.
Understanding the Edison CARE program requirements is the first step towards accessing valuable financial assistance and making your energy bills more affordable. Take the time to review the eligibility criteria and contact Southern California Edison to explore your options and begin saving today.
Note: Always refer to the official Southern California Edison website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information and program details.
