Navigating the landscape of utility bills can be challenging, especially for households with limited income. Fortunately, California offers a valuable support system through the California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) program. This initiative is designed to ease the energy burden for eligible low-income customers by providing significant discounts on their electricity and natural gas bills. If you’re looking to reduce your monthly expenses and ensure access to essential energy services, understanding the CARE program is a crucial first step.
What is the California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) Program?
The CARE program is a state-mandated initiative in California that provides financial assistance to eligible low-income households to help manage their energy costs. Enrolling in CARE can lead to substantial savings, offering a 30-35 percent discount on electric bills and a 20 percent discount on natural gas bills. These discounts are funded through a surcharge paid by other utility customers, ensuring the program’s sustainability and broad reach.
This program is not just a temporary relief measure; it’s a long-term support system designed to make energy more affordable for those who qualify. By reducing the financial strain of utility bills, CARE helps families allocate their resources to other essential needs.
Who is Eligible for the CARE Program?
Eligibility for the CARE program is primarily based on household income. If your total household income falls at or below the established income limits, you are likely eligible to apply. These income limits are updated annually to reflect changes in the cost of living and are effective until May 31, 2025.
Furthermore, 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 qualifies you for the CARE program, simplifying the application process and ensuring that those already receiving assistance can also benefit from reduced energy costs.
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 crucial for determining your eligibility. Be sure to check the current income limits on your utility provider’s website or the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) website for the most up-to-date information, as they are subject to annual adjustments.
How to Apply for the California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) Program
Applying for the CARE program is a straightforward process. The primary step is to contact your utility company directly. Each utility provider in California manages CARE applications for its service area. You can request an application form and gather more detailed information through their websites or by phone.
Utility Contact Information for CARE Program
| Utility | Emergency Payment Phone | Website for CARE Program |
|---|---|---|
| PG&E | 866-743-2273 | CARE PG&E |
| Edison | 866-675-6623 | CARE Edison |
| SDG&E | 800-411-7343 | CARE SDG&E |
| SoCalGas | 800-427-2200 | CARE SoCalGas |
| Alpine Nat’l Gas | 209-772-3006 | CARE Alpine Nat’l Gas |
| Bear Valley Elect | 800-808-2837 | CARE Bear Valley Elect |
| PacifiCorp | 888-221-7070 | CARE PacifiCorp |
| Liberty Utilities | 800-782-2506 | CARE Liberty Utilities |
| Southwest Gas | 877-860-6020 | CARE Southwest Gas |
| West Coast Gas | 916-364-4100 | CARE West Coast Gas |
In addition to contacting your utility directly, application forms may also be available through various community agencies and organizations. These agencies often partner with utility companies to help spread awareness and facilitate enrollment in the CARE program within their communities.
Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) Program
For families whose income slightly exceeds the CARE program limits, California offers another assistance program known as the Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) program. FERA provides an 18% discount on electricity bills for eligible households. FERA is available to customers of specific electric utilities, including Southern California Edison, San Diego Gas and Electric Company, and Pacific Gas and Electric Company.
If your household income is slightly above the CARE limits but you still need assistance with your energy bills, it’s worth exploring the FERA program to see if you qualify.
FERA Income Guidelines (Effective through May 31, 2025)
| Household Size | FERA Income Eligibility Upper Limit |
|---|---|
| 3 | $64,550 |
| 4 | $78,000 |
| 5 | $91,450 |
| 6 | $104,900 |
| 7 | $118,350 |
| 8 | $131,800 |
| Each Additional Person | $13,450 |
Contact your electric utility provider to inquire about the FERA program and to determine if your household meets the eligibility criteria.
Conclusion
The California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) program and the Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) program are vital resources for California residents struggling to afford their energy bills. By taking advantage of these programs, eligible households can significantly reduce their monthly expenses and maintain access to essential energy services.
If you believe you may qualify for either the CARE or FERA program, the next step is to reach out to your utility company. Visit their website or call their customer service line to request an application and learn more about how these programs can provide you with financial relief and energy affordability. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to lower your energy costs and improve your household’s financial well-being.
