Are you struggling to keep up with your energy bills in California? The California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) program is here to help. This state-sponsored initiative provides significant discounts on your electricity and natural gas bills if you meet certain income requirements or participate in specific public assistance programs. If you’re looking to apply for the CARE program and ease your financial burden, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know.
The CARE program offers a 30-35 percent discount on electric bills and a 20 percent discount on natural gas bills for eligible low-income households. These discounts can make a substantial difference in your monthly expenses, ensuring you can afford essential energy services.
Who Can Apply for the CARE Program?
Eligibility for the CARE program is primarily based on your household income. The program uses income guidelines that are updated annually. As of June 1, 2024, the income limits are as follows:
| 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 limits are effective through May 31, 2025. If your household income falls at or below these limits, you are likely eligible to apply for the CARE program.
Besides income, you can also qualify for CARE if you are currently enrolled in any 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 these programs automatically makes you eligible to apply for the CARE program, regardless of your specific income level.
How to Apply for the CARE Program
Applying for the CARE program is straightforward. The first step is to contact your utility company directly. Each utility company in California manages its own CARE program applications. You can request an application form and get detailed information by contacting them via phone or visiting their website.
Here’s a table with contact information for major utility companies in California to help you apply for the CARE program:
| Phone Numbers and Websites for Energy Assistance Programs |
|---|
| Utility |
| PG&E |
You can find the specific CARE program information and application details on their websites. Look for sections like “Save Energy & Money,” “Assistance Programs,” or “Customer Support.” The websites usually provide online application options or downloadable forms that you can fill out and submit.
What is the Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) Program?
If your household income slightly exceeds the CARE program limits, you might still be eligible for assistance through the Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) program. FERA offers an 18% discount on your electricity bill. FERA is available to customers of Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E), Southern California Edison (Edison), and San Diego Gas & Electric Company (SDG&E).
Here are the income limits for the FERA program, effective through May 31, 2025:
| Household | 250% of Federal Poverty Guidelines (FERA) |
|---|---|
| 3 | $64,550 |
| 4 | $78,000 |
| 5 | $91,450 |
| 6 | $104,900 |
| 7 | $118,350 |
| 8 | $131,800 |
| Each Additional Person | $13,450 |
If your income falls within these higher limits, contact your electric utility to inquire about the FERA program and how to apply.
Start Saving on Your Energy Bills Today
The CARE and FERA programs are valuable resources for California residents struggling with energy costs. By taking the time to apply for the CARE program or FERA, you can significantly reduce your monthly utility bills and make your energy expenses more manageable. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your utility company today to learn more and begin the application process. Take advantage of these programs and ensure your household can access affordable energy.
