Are you looking for ways to lower your monthly expenses? If you’re a low-income customer in California, you could significantly reduce your energy bills through the California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) program. This initiative offers substantial discounts, making energy more affordable for eligible households. Take control of your energy costs and Apply For The Care Program today to see if you qualify for these savings.
Understanding the California CARE Program: Is It For You?
The CARE program is designed to help households with limited incomes manage their energy expenses. If you’re enrolled in CARE, you’ll receive a 30-35 percent discount on your electric bill and a 20 percent discount on your natural gas bill. These discounts can make a real difference in your monthly budget.
Eligibility for CARE is primarily based on your household income. Here are the income guidelines to determine if you can apply for the CARE program:
Income Guidelines for CARE Eligibility
These income limits are current through 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 |
| * Effective June 1, 2024 to May 31, 2025 |
Chart detailing CARE program income eligibility limits for different household sizes.
Even if your income slightly exceeds these limits, you might still be eligible if you participate in certain public assistance programs.
Enrollment in Public Assistance Programs
You can also apply for the CARE program if you or someone in your household is enrolled in one 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
If you meet either the income guidelines or participate in one of these programs, you should definitely apply for the CARE program to start saving on your energy bills.
How to Apply for the CARE Program: Step-by-Step Guide
Applying for the CARE program is a straightforward process. The easiest way to apply for the CARE program is to contact your utility provider directly. They can provide you with the application form and guide you through the process.
Contact Your Utility Provider
Here’s a list of major utility companies in California with their contact information and website links where you can apply for the CARE program online or find more details:
| 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 |
Table listing utility companies and links to apply for the CARE program.
Simply click on the CARE link for your utility provider to visit their website and find the application form. You can often apply for the CARE program directly online through these websites.
Application Assistance from Community Agencies
If you need help with the application process, numerous community agencies also provide assistance. They can offer guidance and help you fill out the forms to apply for the CARE program. Contacting your local community services or social services organizations can connect you with these resources.
Explore Additional Savings with the FERA Program
In addition to CARE, California also offers the Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) program. If your household income slightly exceeds the CARE limits, you might qualify for FERA. This program provides an 18% discount on your electricity bill for customers of Southern California Edison, San Diego Gas and Electric Company, and Pacific Gas and Electric Company.
Consider exploring FERA if you don’t qualify for CARE but still need assistance with your energy bills.
FERA Income Guidelines
Here are the income limits for the FERA program, effective through May 31, 2025:
| 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 |
Table comparing income guidelines for CARE and FERA programs.
Conclusion
Lowering your energy bills is within reach! If you believe you are eligible, don’t hesitate to apply for the CARE program. It’s a valuable resource for low-income households in California, offering significant discounts on your energy costs. Contact your utility company today or visit their website to begin your application and start saving. For further information on CARE and other assistance programs, reach out to your utility provider – they are there to help you.
