The California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) program is designed to help low-income households manage their energy costs by providing significant discounts on their utility bills. Specifically for San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E) customers, understanding the CARE program income requirements is the first step to accessing these valuable savings. This article breaks down everything you need to know about the SDG&E CARE program and its income eligibility criteria, ensuring you have the information to determine if you qualify for assistance.
Who is Eligible for the SDG&E CARE Program?
The CARE program offers a 30-35% discount on electric bills and a 20% discount on natural gas bills for eligible customers. Eligibility is primarily based on household income, but enrollment in certain public assistance programs can also qualify you, regardless of income level.
Income-Based Eligibility for SDG&E CARE
To qualify for CARE based on income, your total household income must be at or below specific limits. These income limits are updated annually to reflect changes in the cost of living. As of June 1, 2024, and effective through May 31, 2025, the income guidelines 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 |
These income limits are current as of June 1, 2024.
If your household size and income fall within these limits, you are likely eligible for the SDG&E CARE program.
Program-Based Eligibility for SDG&E CARE
Even if your income slightly exceeds the limits mentioned above, you may still qualify for the SDG&E CARE program if you are enrolled in any of the following public assistance programs:
- 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 CARE, regardless of your specific income level. This ensures that those already receiving assistance can further benefit from reduced energy costs.
How to Apply for the SDG&E CARE Program
Applying for the SDG&E CARE program is a straightforward process. You can access the application and find more detailed information through the following resources:
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SDG&E Website: Visit the official SDG&E website dedicated to payment and bill assistance. This is often the quickest way to access application forms and program details.
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Phone: Contact SDG&E directly to request an application form or ask any questions you may have about the program and your eligibility.
SDG&E Emergency Payment Assistance Phone Number: 800-411-7343
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Community Agencies: Application forms are also available through various community-based organizations and agencies that assist low-income individuals and families.
When applying, you will need to provide documentation to verify your income or enrollment in a qualifying public assistance program. Ensure you have the necessary information ready to expedite the application process.
Understanding the Discounts and Funding of CARE
The CARE program offers substantial discounts, making energy bills more affordable for eligible households. For SDG&E customers, this means a 30-35% reduction on your electric bill and a 20% discount on your natural gas bill. These discounts can significantly lower your monthly expenses and contribute to household financial stability.
The CARE program is funded through a surcharge on the utility bills of non-CARE customers. This mechanism ensures the program’s sustainability and allows for continuous support for low-income households in California.
Explore Other Assistance Programs: FERA
For families whose income slightly exceeds the CARE program limits, the Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) program offers another avenue for bill relief. FERA provides an 18% discount on electricity bills and is available to customers of SDG&E, Southern California Edison, and Pacific Gas and Electric Company.
| Household Size | FERA Income Eligibility Upper Limit |
|---|---|
| 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 income is above the CARE limits but within the FERA guidelines, it is worth exploring the FERA program to see if you qualify for these additional savings.
Conclusion: Take Advantage of SDG&E CARE
The SDG&E CARE program is a vital resource for low-income customers in San Diego and surrounding areas, offering significant discounts on energy bills. By understanding the income requirements and eligibility criteria, you can determine if you qualify for this assistance. Don’t hesitate to reach out to SDG&E or visit their website to apply and start saving on your energy costs today. Lowering your utility bills can free up your budget for other essential needs and contribute to a more financially secure future.
