Are you struggling to keep up with your energy bills? The rising cost of living in California can make essential utilities like electricity and gas a significant financial burden. Fortunately, Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) offers the California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) program to help eligible low-income customers significantly reduce their monthly expenses. If you’re looking for the to inquire about eligibility and application, you’ve come to the right place.
Contact PG&E CARE Program Assistance Directly at 866-743-2273
Calling this number is your first step towards potentially saving 30-35% on your electric bill and 20% on your natural gas bill through the CARE program. Let’s delve into what the CARE program is, who qualifies, and how you can benefit.
Understanding the California CARE Program
The California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) program is a state-mandated initiative designed to assist low-income households in managing their energy costs. It provides substantial discounts on electricity and natural gas bills, making energy more affordable for those who need it most. This program is available to customers of major utility companies across California, including PG&E.
The discounts offered through CARE are significant:
- Electricity Discount: 30-35% reduction on your electric bill.
- Natural Gas Discount: 20% reduction on your natural gas bill.
These discounts can make a real difference in your monthly budget, freeing up funds for other essential needs. The CARE program is funded through a surcharge paid by other utility customers, ensuring support for those most vulnerable to high energy costs.
PG&E CARE Program Eligibility: Do You Qualify?
Eligibility for the PG&E CARE program is primarily based on your household income. The income limits are updated annually to reflect changes in the cost of living. As of June 1, 2024, the income guidelines are as follows:
| CARE Income Guidelines* |
|---|
| Household Size |
| 1-2 |
| 3 |
| 4 |
| 5 |
| 6 |
| 7 |
| 8 |
| Each Additional Person |
| * Effective June 1, 2024 to May 31, 2025 |
If your household income falls at or below these limits, you are likely eligible for the CARE program.
Beyond income, you may also qualify for CARE if you are 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 qualifies you for the CARE program, regardless of your specific income level.
How to Apply for PG&E CARE
The easiest way to start your application process is to contact PG&E directly. You can use the PG&E CARE program phone number:
866-743-2273
When you call, a PG&E representative can:
- Answer your questions about the CARE program.
- Confirm your potential eligibility.
- Provide you with an application form.
- Guide you through the application process.
You can also find more information and application forms on the PG&E website dedicated to the CARE program: CARE Program Information on PG&E Website.
Other California Energy Assistance Programs
While CARE is the primary program for low-income energy assistance, California also offers the Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) program. FERA is designed for households whose income slightly exceeds the CARE limits. FERA provides an 18% discount on your electricity bill.
FERA is available to customers of PG&E, Southern California Edison, and San Diego Gas and Electric Company. If your income is slightly above the CARE guidelines, it’s worth inquiring about FERA when you call the PG&E CARE program phone number.
Contact Your Utility for Energy Assistance
PG&E is not the only utility company offering the CARE program. Here is a table with contact information for other major California utilities offering energy assistance programs. While this article focuses on the PG&E CARE program phone number, remember that similar programs are available throughout the state.
| 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 |
Take Action and Lower Your Energy Bills
Don’t let high energy bills strain your finances. If you believe you may be eligible for the California CARE program, especially through PG&E, take action today. Call the PG&E CARE program phone number at 866-743-2273 or visit their website to learn more and begin your application. Help is available, and you could significantly reduce your energy costs through these valuable assistance programs.
