The California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) program is a state-initiated program designed to help low-income households manage their energy expenses. Administered by utility companies like Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PGE), CARE offers significant discounts on monthly electricity and natural gas bills. For families struggling to afford essential utilities, understanding the Pge Care Program Income Limits is the first step towards accessing much-needed financial relief. This guide breaks down the income requirements for the CARE program, eligibility criteria, and how to apply, ensuring you have all the information to determine if you qualify for these valuable energy savings.
What is the California CARE Program?
The CARE program provides a crucial safety net for eligible California residents by offering a 30-35% discount on electric bills and a 20% discount on natural gas bills. This substantial reduction can make a significant difference in household budgets, freeing up funds for other necessities. Funded through a surcharge on other utility customers’ bills, CARE is a testament to California’s commitment to supporting its vulnerable populations.
The program isn’t solely based on income. Enrollment in certain public assistance programs also automatically qualifies households for CARE. 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
However, for those not enrolled in these programs, meeting the PGE CARE program income limits is the primary pathway to eligibility.
2024-2025 PGE CARE Program Income Limits
To qualify for the CARE program based on income, your total household income must be at or below the following limits. These limits are effective through May 31, 2025. It’s important to note that these income thresholds are updated periodically, often annually, to reflect changes in the cost of living.
| CARE Income Guidelines* |
|---|
| Household Size |
| 1-2 |
| 3 |
| 4 |
| 5 |
| 6 |
| 7 |
| 8 |
| Each Additional Person |
| * Effective June 1, 2024 to May 31, 2025 |
For example, a household of four must have a total annual income of $62,400 or less to be eligible for the CARE program based on income limits. As you can see from the table, the income limit increases with household size, acknowledging the higher cost of living for larger families.
How to Apply for the PGE CARE Program
Applying for the PGE CARE program is a straightforward process. The easiest way to apply is to contact PGE directly or visit their website dedicated to the CARE program.
You can reach PGE for CARE program information and application assistance through the following channels:
- Phone: 866-743-2273
- Website: PGE CARE Program Website
The PGE website provides detailed information about the CARE program, eligibility requirements, and an online application form. You can also download application forms from the website or request them to be mailed to you by calling the provided phone number.
In addition to PGE, other utility companies in California also administer the CARE program. Here is a list of major utilities and their contact information for CARE program inquiries:
| 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 |
It’s recommended to have your household income information and utility account details readily available when you apply. The application process is designed to be simple and accessible, ensuring that eligible households can easily access this vital assistance.
Explore Additional Assistance: The 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 electricity bills for eligible customers of Southern California Edison, San Diego Gas and Electric Company, and Pacific Gas and Electric Company. While FERA’s discount is less than CARE’s, it still provides valuable savings for households just above the CARE income thresholds.
To determine if you might qualify for FERA, contact your electric utility and inquire about the program’s income limits and application process.
Conclusion: Take Action on Your Energy Savings
The PGE CARE program and the broader California CARE program are invaluable resources for low-income households seeking to reduce their energy costs. By understanding the PGE CARE program income limits and eligibility criteria, you can take proactive steps to access these discounts and alleviate your household’s financial burden. Don’t hesitate to contact PGE or your utility provider today to learn more and begin your application process. Energy bill assistance is available – take advantage of these programs and start saving today.
