The rising cost of living can make essential services like electricity and natural gas increasingly burdensome, especially for low-income households. Fortunately, California offers a valuable resource to ease this financial strain: the California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) program. Specifically, for customers of Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E), the PG&E CARE program provides significant discounts on monthly utility bills. This guide will delve into the details of the PG&E CARE program, helping you understand its benefits, eligibility requirements, and how to apply.
What is the PG&E CARE Program?
The PG&E CARE program is designed to assist eligible low-income customers in managing their energy expenses. Through CARE, participants receive a substantial discount on their electricity and natural gas bills. Specifically, the program offers a discount of 30-35 percent on electric bills and 20 percent on natural gas bills for PG&E customers. This financial relief can make a significant difference in household budgets, ensuring access to essential energy services without compromising financial stability.
Who is Eligible for the PG&E CARE Program?
Eligibility for the PG&E CARE program is primarily based on household income. The program utilizes income guidelines that are updated annually to reflect changes in the cost of living. As of June 1, 2024, the income limits are effective through May 31, 2025, and 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 |
If your household income falls at or below these limits, you are likely eligible for the PG&E CARE program.
Beyond income, enrollment in certain public assistance programs also automatically qualifies you for CARE. These programs 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
If you participate in any of these programs, you meet the eligibility criteria for the PG&E CARE program, regardless of your specific income level.
How to Apply for the PG&E CARE Program
Applying for the PG&E CARE program is a straightforward process. The most direct way to apply is to visit the PG&E website dedicated to the CARE program.
You can access the PG&E CARE application and find more detailed information by visiting: CARE Program Website.
Alternatively, you can contact PG&E directly to request an application form or ask any questions you may have about the program. The dedicated phone number for PG&E energy assistance programs, including CARE, is 866-743-2273.
In addition to PG&E directly, application forms are often available through various community agencies and organizations that assist low-income individuals and families. Checking with local community centers or social services agencies can provide another avenue for obtaining application assistance.
Understanding FERA: Another Assistance Option
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 customers of PG&E, Southern California Edison, and San Diego Gas and Electric Company.
The income limits for FERA are higher than CARE, making it an option for households that may not qualify for CARE but still need help managing energy costs. For instance, for a household of 3, the FERA income limit is $64,550, compared to $51,640 for CARE.
If you believe your income might be too high for CARE but still need assistance, it is worth exploring the FERA program. Contact your utility company to inquire about FERA eligibility and application procedures.
Conclusion: Take Advantage of the PG&E CARE Program
The PG&E CARE program is a vital resource for low-income residents in California, providing substantial discounts on energy bills and helping to make essential services more affordable. If you believe you may be eligible based on income or participation in public assistance programs, taking the step to apply can lead to significant savings and greater financial well-being. Don’t hesitate to reach out to PG&E or visit their website to learn more and begin your application today. By utilizing programs like CARE, California is working to ensure that all residents have access to affordable and reliable energy.
