Are you a Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) customer in California struggling with your energy bills? The California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) program, offered by PG&E, is designed to help income-qualified households lower their monthly electricity and natural gas expenses. This essential program provides significant discounts, making energy more affordable for those who need it most.
Understanding the PG&E CARE Program and Its Benefits
The PG&E CARE program offers substantial discounts to eligible customers, specifically a 30-35 percent discount on electric bills and a 20 percent discount on natural gas bills. These savings can significantly ease the financial burden of energy costs, ensuring that households can maintain essential services without compromising their budgets. This program is funded through a rate surcharge paid by other utility customers, demonstrating a community effort to support vulnerable residents.
To determine if you qualify for these valuable savings, it’s important to understand the eligibility criteria. The CARE program primarily focuses on household income, but also considers enrollment in certain public assistance programs.
Income Guidelines for PG&E CARE Program Eligibility
Eligibility for the PG&E CARE program is largely based on your household’s total gross annual income. These income limits are updated annually to reflect changes in the cost of living and are effective through May 31, 2025. Here’s a breakdown of the income thresholds:
| 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 PG&E CARE program.
Automatic Enrollment via Public Assistance Programs
Beyond income, you may also automatically qualify for the PG&E CARE program if you are currently enrolled in any of the following public assistance programs. Enrollment in these programs demonstrates income need and streamlines the CARE application process:
- 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
If you participate in any of these programs, you are encouraged to apply for the PG&E CARE program to start receiving discounts on your energy bills.
How to Apply for the PG&E CARE Program
Applying for the PG&E CARE program is straightforward. The most direct way to apply is through the PG&E website, which offers online applications and detailed information. You can visit the official PG&E CARE program page to access the application and learn more.
For those who prefer offline methods or need assistance, application forms are also available by contacting PG&E directly at 866-743-2273. Additionally, numerous community agencies throughout California partner with PG&E to distribute applications and provide support.
Explore Other 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 savings. FERA provides an 18% discount on electricity bills for eligible customers of PG&E, Southern California Edison, and San Diego Gas and Electric Company. While FERA has different income thresholds, it serves as a valuable safety net for those who may not qualify for CARE but still need assistance managing energy costs.
| Household | 200% of Federal Poverty Guidelines (CARE/ESAP) | 250% of Federal Poverty Guidelines (FERA) |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | $51,641 | $64,550 |
| 4 | $62,401 | $78,000 |
| 5 | $73,161 | $91,450 |
| 6 | $83,921 | $104,900 |
| 7 | $94,681 | $118,350 |
| 8 | $105,441 | $131,800 |
| Each Additional Person | $10,760 | $13,450 |
Take Action and Save on Your Energy Bills
The PG&E CARE program is a vital resource for eligible California residents to manage their energy expenses. By taking advantage of the significant discounts offered, you can reduce your financial stress and ensure access to essential energy services. Check your eligibility today and contact PG&E or visit their website to apply and start saving. Don’t let high energy bills strain your budget when help is available.
