Are you struggling to keep up with your energy bills? The California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) program, offered by SoCalGas, is designed to help income-qualified households manage their natural gas expenses. If you’re a SoCalGas customer, the CARE program could significantly reduce your monthly bills, making energy more affordable. This program provides a substantial discount, helping you save money while maintaining essential services.
Understanding the SoCalGas CARE Program
The SoCalGas CARE program offers a helping hand to eligible low-income customers by providing a 20% discount on their natural gas bills. This discount can make a real difference in your household budget, freeing up funds for other necessities. It’s a state-mandated program aimed at ensuring that essential energy services are accessible to everyone, regardless of their financial situation.
Who is Eligible for the SoCalGas CARE Program?
Eligibility for the CARE program is primarily based on your household income and the number of people living in your home. You may qualify if your total gross household income falls at or below the following limits:
| CARE Income Guidelines* |
|---|
| Household Size |
| 1-2 |
| 3 |
| 4 |
| 5 |
| 6 |
| 7 |
| 8 |
| Each Additional Person |
| * Effective June 1, 2024 to May 31, 2025 |
These income limits are updated annually, so it’s always a good idea to check the latest guidelines. Even if your income slightly exceeds these limits, you might still be eligible if you participate in certain public assistance programs.
Additional Eligibility Pathways
You can also qualify for the SoCalGas CARE program if you are currently 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 makes you eligible for CARE, simplifying the application process.
How to Apply for the SoCalGas CARE Program
Applying for the SoCalGas CARE program is a straightforward process. SoCalGas provides multiple convenient ways to submit your application:
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Online Application: The quickest and easiest way to apply is through the SoCalGas website. Visit the SoCalGas CARE program page and look for the online application portal. The online form is user-friendly and guides you through each step.
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Phone Application: You can request an application form or get assistance with the application process by calling SoCalGas directly at 1-800-427-2200. Customer service representatives can answer your questions and help you complete your application over the phone or send you an application form by mail.
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Mail-in Application: If you prefer to apply by mail, you can download the application form from the SoCalGas website or request one by phone. Once you’ve completed the form, mail it to the address provided on the form.
No matter which method you choose, ensure you have all necessary information ready, including proof of income or enrollment in a qualifying public assistance program, to expedite your application.
Get the Energy Bill Relief You Deserve
The SoCalGas CARE program is a valuable resource for eligible customers looking to reduce their monthly natural gas expenses. By taking advantage of this program, you can ensure that your energy bills are more manageable, allowing you to allocate your resources to other essential needs. Don’t let high energy costs strain your budget – apply for the SoCalGas CARE program today and start saving.
For more information or to start your Socalgas Care Program Application, visit the official SoCalGas website or call their customer service line.
