Are you struggling to afford your energy bills in California? The California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) program is designed to help low-income households reduce their electricity and natural gas expenses. This program offers significant discounts, making energy more affordable for eligible residents. If you’re looking for the Care Program Phone Number to apply or learn more, you’ve come to the right place. This guide will provide you with the essential contact information and details about the CARE program to help you determine your eligibility and get the assistance you need.
What is the California CARE Program?
The CARE program is a state-run initiative that provides crucial financial relief to eligible low-income customers in California. By enrolling in CARE, you can receive a 30-35 percent discount on your electric bill and a 20 percent discount on your natural gas bill. These discounts can significantly lower your monthly expenses, helping you manage your household budget more effectively. The program is funded through a surcharge paid by other utility customers, ensuring its sustainability and reach across the state.
Eligibility for the CARE Program
To qualify for the CARE program, your household income must be at or below the specified income limits. These limits are updated annually to reflect changes in the cost of living. As of June 1, 2024, the income eligibility upper limits are:
| CARE Income Guidelines* |
|---|
| Household Size |
| 1-2 |
| 3 |
| 4 |
| 5 |
| 6 |
| 7 |
| 8 |
| Each Additional Person |
| * Effective June 1, 2024 to May 31, 2025 |
Besides 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 makes you eligible for CARE, simplifying the application process.
CARE Program Phone Numbers and Websites for Utility Companies
To apply for the CARE program or get more detailed information, you need to contact your utility company directly. Each utility company has dedicated resources and application processes for CARE. Below is a table with the care program phone number and website for major utility providers in California:
| 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 |
Simply find your utility provider in the table and use the provided care program phone number to call and inquire about the application process. You can also visit the linked websites for online applications and further details.
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. This program is available to customers of Pacific Gas and Electric Company, Southern California Edison, and San Diego Gas and Electric Company. Contact your electric utility to check if you qualify for the FERA program and to understand the specific income limits.
Get Help with Your Energy Bills Today
The California CARE program is a valuable resource for low-income households seeking assistance with their energy bills. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your utility company using the care program phone number provided to explore your eligibility and start saving on your monthly expenses. Affordable energy is within reach – take the first step and contact your utility provider today!
