Are you a resident of Southern California struggling with high energy bills? The So Cal Care Program, also known as the California Alternate Rates for Energy program, is here to help. This state-initiated program offers significant discounts on your electricity and natural gas bills, making energy more affordable for eligible low-income households.
Understanding the California CARE Program Benefits
The CARE program provides substantial relief to qualifying customers by offering discounts of 30-35 percent on electric bills and 20 percent on natural gas bills. These discounts can significantly lower your monthly expenses, allowing you to allocate your budget to other essential needs.
So Cal CARE Program Eligibility: Do You Qualify?
Eligibility for the So Cal CARE program is primarily based on your household income. As of June 1, 2024, the income limits 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 guidelines are effective through May 31, 2025.
Beyond income, you may also qualify for the CARE program if you are enrolled in certain public assistance programs. These 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
How to Apply for the So Cal CARE Program
Applying for the So Cal CARE program is straightforward. The first step is to contact your utility company directly. Here is a list of major utility providers in Southern California and their contact information for energy assistance programs:
| Utility | Emergency Payment Phone Number | CARE Program Website |
|---|---|---|
| PG&E | 866-743-2273 | CARE |
| Edison (Southern California Edison) | 866-675-6623 | CARE |
| SDG&E (San Diego Gas & Electric) | 800-411-7343 | CARE |
| SoCalGas (Southern California Gas Company) | 800-427-2200 | CARE |
| Bear Valley Electric | 800-808-2837 | CARE |
| West Coast Gas | 916-364-4100 | CARE |
You can visit the websites listed above or call the provided phone numbers to request an application form and get detailed information about the application process.
Explore Further Assistance with the FERA Program
If your household income slightly exceeds the CARE program limits, you might still be eligible for assistance through the Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) program. FERA offers an 18% discount on your electricity bill. FERA is available to customers of Southern California Edison, San Diego Gas and Electric Company, 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 |
These income guidelines for FERA are effective through May 31, 2025.
Take Action and Save on Energy Bills
The So Cal CARE program and FERA program are valuable resources for Southern California residents seeking help with energy costs. Don’t let high utility bills strain your budget. Check your eligibility for the So Cal CARE program today and take advantage of the available discounts. Contact your utility provider to learn more and begin your application process. Start saving on your energy bills and improve your financial well-being!
