Are you finding it challenging to keep up with your energy bills? You might be relieved to learn about the Edison CARE program, a California initiative designed to assist eligible low-income households in managing their electricity expenses. This program offers significant discounts on your energy bills, making it easier to keep your lights on and your home comfortable.
Understanding the Edison CARE Program
The California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) program is a state-mandated program that provides discounts to income-qualified customers on their electricity and natural gas bills. Specifically for customers of Southern California Edison (Edison), enrolling in the CARE program can lead to substantial savings. Participants typically receive a 30-35 percent discount on their electric bill and a 20 percent discount on their natural gas bill. These discounts are funded through a surcharge paid by other utility customers, ensuring that those who need assistance the most receive it.
This program is crucial for residents struggling with energy costs, offering a financial cushion to help manage essential household expenses. It’s not just about saving money; it’s about ensuring that everyone has access to reliable energy, regardless of their financial situation.
Eligibility for the Edison CARE Program
To qualify for the Edison CARE program, your household income must fall at or below certain income limits. These limits are updated annually to reflect changes in the cost of living. As of June 1, 2024, the income eligibility upper limits are as follows:
Edison CARE Income Guidelines (Effective through May 31, 2025)
| 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 |
Beyond income limits, you can also qualify for the Edison CARE program if you are currently 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 makes you eligible for CARE, simplifying the application process.
How to Apply for the Edison CARE Program
Applying for the Edison CARE program is straightforward. The most direct way is to contact Southern California Edison directly. You can request an application form and get detailed information by:
- Calling Edison’s dedicated line: 866-675-6623
- Visiting their website: CARE Program Information
The website provides comprehensive details about the program, eligibility requirements, and the application process. You can often download application forms directly from the site or find instructions on how to have one mailed to you.
For your convenience, here are contact details and website links for other major utility companies in California that also offer the CARE program:
| Utility | Emergency Payment | Website |
|---|---|---|
| PG&E | 866-743-2273 | CARE |
| Edison | 866-675-6623 | CARE |
| SDG&E | 800-411-7343 | CARE |
| SoCalGas | 800-427-2200 | CARE |
| Alpine Nat’l Gas | 209-772-3006 | PROGRAMS |
| Bear Valley Elect | 800-808-2837 | CARE |
| PacifiCorp | 888-221-7070 | Financial Assistance |
| Liberty Utilities | 800-782-2506 | CARE |
| Southwest Gas | 877-860-6020 | Special Programs |
| West Coast Gas | 916-364-4100 | CARE |
Application forms are also often available through community agencies and organizations that assist low-income individuals and families.
Exploring the Family Electric Rate Assistance (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 a 18% discount on your electricity bill. It is available to customers of Southern California Edison, San Diego Gas and Electric Company, and Pacific Gas and Electric Company.
Here are the income limits for the FERA program, effective through May 31, 2025:
| Household Size | 250% of Federal Poverty Guidelines (FERA) |
|---|---|
| 3 | $64,550 |
| 4 | $78,000 |
| 5 | $91,450 |
| 6 | $104,900 |
| 7 | $118,350 |
| 8 | $131,800 |
| Each Additional Person | $13,450 |
To learn more about FERA and determine if you qualify, contact your electric utility company.
Conclusion
The Edison CARE program and the broader California CARE program are vital resources for low-income residents struggling with energy costs. By providing substantial discounts on your utility bills, these programs help make energy more affordable and accessible. If you believe you are eligible for the Edison CARE program, don’t hesitate to reach out to Southern California Edison or visit their website to apply and start saving today. Energy assistance is available – take advantage of it.
