The rising cost of living can make essential bills, like electricity, a significant burden, especially for low-income households. If you are a Southern California Edison (SCE) customer and are concerned about managing your energy expenses, the California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) program could provide crucial relief. This program offers substantial discounts on your monthly electricity and natural gas bills, helping you maintain essential services without straining your finances.
What is the CARE Program and How Can it Lower Your Edison Bill?
The CARE program is a state-mandated initiative designed to assist income-qualified households in California by providing discounts on their energy bills. For Edison customers enrolled in CARE, this translates to a 30-35 percent discount on electricity and a 20 percent discount on natural gas. These significant savings can make a real difference in your monthly budget, freeing up funds for other necessities.
This program is funded through a surcharge on other utility customers’ bills, ensuring that those most in need receive the support they deserve. The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) regulates these programs, and a dedicated Low-Income Oversight Board (LIOB) advises the CPUC on energy assistance programs, ensuring they effectively serve low-income communities.
Do You Qualify for Edison’s CARE Program Based on Income?
Eligibility for the CARE program is primarily based on your household income. The income limits are updated annually to reflect changes in the cost of living and are effective until May 31, 2025. If your total household income falls at or below the following guidelines, you are likely eligible for the Edison CARE program:
| 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 |
Beyond income, 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.
How to Apply for the Edison CARE Program and Start Saving
Applying for the Edison CARE program is straightforward. The easiest way to get started is to contact Edison directly. You can request an application form and get detailed information by:
- Calling Edison’s dedicated CARE program line: 866-675-6623
- Visiting the Edison website: CARE
The website provides comprehensive information about the CARE program, eligibility requirements, and the application process. You can often download application forms directly from the website or complete the application online.
Explore Other Edison Assistance Programs: FERA
If your household income slightly exceeds the CARE program limits, you might still be eligible for the Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) program. FERA offers a smaller discount of 18% on your electricity bill and is available to customers of Southern California Edison, along with San Diego Gas and Electric Company, and Pacific Gas and Electric Company.
To learn more about FERA and other assistance programs that Edison offers, it is best to contact them directly through their website or customer service line. Don’t let energy bills be a source of stress. Explore the Edison CARE program and other available assistance to manage your expenses and ensure access to essential energy services.
