The California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) program is a vital initiative designed to help eligible low-income households in California manage their energy expenses. Specifically, for customers of Edison (Southern California Edison), the Edison Care Program offers significant discounts on both electricity and natural gas bills. This article will delve into the details of the Edison CARE program, outlining its benefits, eligibility requirements, and how you can apply to start saving on your energy costs.
What is the Edison CARE Program?
The Edison CARE program is a state-mandated program that provides a crucial financial cushion for households struggling to afford their utility bills. If you’re an Edison customer and qualify for CARE, you can receive a substantial discount on your monthly energy bills. This discount typically ranges from 30-35 percent on your electric bill and 20 percent on your natural gas bill. These savings can make a significant difference in your household budget, freeing up funds for other essential needs.
This program is funded through a small surcharge on the bills of other utility customers, ensuring that those most in need receive the assistance they deserve. The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) oversees the CARE program, and income limits are reviewed and potentially adjusted annually to reflect changes in the cost of living and inflation.
Who is Eligible for the Edison CARE Program?
Eligibility for the Edison CARE program is primarily based on your household income. If your total gross household income falls at or below the income limits set for the program, you are likely to qualify. These income limits are updated annually and are dependent on the number of people living in your household.
Edison CARE Income Guidelines
(Effective through 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 |
Beyond income, you can also qualify for the Edison CARE program if you are currently enrolled in certain public assistance programs. These programs demonstrate a qualifying level of need and include:
- Medicaid/Medi-Cal
- Women, Infants and Children Program (WIC)
- Healthy Families A & B
- National School Lunch Program’s Free Lunch Program (NSLP)
- CalFresh/SNAP (Food Stamps)
- 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 Edison CARE program, simplifying the application process.
How to Apply for the Edison CARE Program
Applying for the Edison CARE program is straightforward. Southern California Edison provides several ways to access the application and get more information:
- Online: Visit the official Edison website dedicated to the CARE program: CARE. You can find detailed information, application forms, and potentially apply online through this portal.
- Phone: Contact Edison directly at their dedicated CARE program phone number: 866-675-6623. Representatives can answer your questions, provide application forms, and guide you through the process.
- Mail: You can request an application form to be mailed to you by contacting Edison through their website or phone number.
- Community Agencies: Application forms are also often available through various community-based organizations and agencies in California that assist low-income residents.
It is recommended to visit the Edison website or call their dedicated line for the most up-to-date information and application procedures.
Exploring Additional Assistance: The FERA Program
While the CARE program is designed for households with lower incomes, Edison also offers the Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) program. FERA is for families whose income slightly exceeds the CARE guidelines but still need help managing their electricity costs. FERA provides an 18% discount on your electricity bill.
| Household Size | 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 is slightly above the CARE limits, it is worth investigating the FERA program to see if you qualify for this additional assistance. Contact Edison to inquire about FERA and other support programs that may be available to you.
Conclusion
The Edison CARE program is a valuable resource for income-eligible households in Southern California Edison’s service area. By providing significant discounts on energy bills, CARE helps to make energy more affordable and eases the financial burden on families. If you believe you may be eligible for the Edison CARE program, don’t hesitate to reach out to Edison through their website or phone number to learn more and begin the application process. Take advantage of this program to reduce your energy expenses and improve your household’s financial well-being.
