Rising energy costs can be a significant concern for households, especially those with limited incomes. Fortunately, Southern California Edison (Edison) offers assistance programs like the California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) and Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) to help eligible customers reduce their energy bills. If you’re looking for ways to lower your monthly expenses, understanding these programs could be the key to significant savings.
What is the California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) Program?
The CARE program is designed to provide substantial discounts on energy bills for low-income households. Enrolling in CARE can lead to a 30-35% discount on your electric bill and a 20% discount on your natural gas bill. This program is crucial for making energy more affordable for those who need it most, ensuring access to essential utilities without undue financial strain.
CARE Eligibility: Are You Qualified?
Eligibility for the CARE program is primarily based on household income. 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 |
Beyond income, you may also qualify for CARE if you or someone in your household is enrolled in certain public assistance programs. These 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
How to Apply for the CARE Program with Edison
To take advantage of the CARE program and start saving on your energy bills, you need to apply through Southern California Edison. The easiest way to begin is to visit the Edison website dedicated to the CARE program. You can also contact Edison directly by phone to request an application form and get personalized assistance.
Contact Edison for CARE Program Information and Application:
- Phone: 866-675-6623
- Website: Edison CARE Program
Understanding the Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) Program
For families whose income slightly exceeds the CARE program limits, the Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) program offers another avenue for energy bill relief. FERA provides an 18% discount on your electric bill. While the discount is slightly less than CARE, it still represents a significant saving for eligible families. FERA is available to customers of Southern California Edison, as well as San Diego Gas and Electric Company, and Pacific Gas and Electric Company.
FERA Eligibility: Income Guidelines
FERA has its own set of income guidelines, designed for households that are considered slightly above the low-income threshold but still need assistance. Here are the income limits for FERA, 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 household income falls within these ranges and you are an Edison customer, you should explore the FERA program to see if you qualify for the discount.
Applying for the FERA Program through Edison
Similar to the CARE program, the best way to apply for FERA is to contact Southern California Edison directly. Their customer service representatives can provide you with detailed information, application forms, and guide you through the process.
Reach out to Edison for FERA Program Details and Application:
- Phone: 866-675-6623
- Website: Edison FERA Program
Take Control of Your Energy Costs with Edison’s Assistance Programs
Navigating energy bills and understanding assistance programs can seem daunting, but Edison is there to help. Both the CARE and FERA programs are valuable resources designed to make energy more affordable for eligible households in California. By taking the time to check your eligibility and apply, you could significantly reduce your monthly expenses and ensure access to reliable energy without financial hardship. Don’t hesitate to contact Southern California Edison today to learn more and begin your application process.
