Understanding the PG&E CARE Program
The PG&E CARE program is a state-mandated initiative that offers a discount on your energy bills. Specifically, enrolled customers receive a 30-35% discount on their electric bill and a 20% discount on their natural gas bill. This can translate into hundreds of dollars saved each year, making a real difference for eligible families and individuals. The program is funded through a surcharge paid by other utility customers, ensuring support for those who need it most.
PG&E CARE Program Eligibility Guidelines
Eligibility for the PG&E CARE program is primarily based on your household income. The program uses income thresholds that are updated annually to reflect changes in the cost of living. As of June 1, 2024, the income limits are effective through May 31, 2025, and are as follows:
| CARE Income Guidelines* |
|---|
| Household Size |
| 1-2 |
| 3 |
| 4 |
| 5 |
| 6 |
| 7 |
| 8 |
| Each Additional Person |
| * Effective June 1, 2024 to May 31, 2025 |
Image alt text: PG&E CARE program income guidelines table for 2024-2025, showing income limits based on household size for California energy assistance program.
Beyond income, you may also qualify for the PG&E CARE program if you are enrolled in certain public assistance programs. These programs demonstrate your need for financial assistance and automatically qualify you for CARE. These qualifying 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
How to Apply for the PG&E CARE Program
Applying for the PG&E CARE program is a straightforward process. The easiest way to start is to contact PG&E directly. You can reach them through their dedicated phone line or website:
| Phone Numbers and Websites for Energy Assistance Programs |
|---|
| Utility |
| PG&E |
Image alt text: PG&E CARE program contact details table showing phone number and website link for application and information about energy bill assistance in California.
You can call PG&E at 866-743-2273 to request an application form and ask any questions you may have about the program. Alternatively, visit the PG&E website (linked in the table above) for online information and application options.
Application forms are also often available through various community agencies and organizations in California that assist low-income residents. These agencies can also provide guidance through the application process.
Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) Program
For families whose income slightly exceeds the CARE program limits, there is another option: the Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) program. FERA offers an 18% discount on your electricity bill. It’s designed to help households who are just above the CARE income thresholds but still need assistance managing energy costs. FERA is available to customers of PG&E, Southern California Edison, and San Diego Gas and Electric Company.
| Household | 200% of Federal Poverty Guidelines (CARE/ESAP) +1 | 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 |
Image alt text: FERA program income limits table for California residents, comparing income thresholds for FERA and CARE energy assistance programs for different household sizes.
If you believe your income might be slightly too high for CARE but still need help with your energy bills, check the FERA income guidelines and contact PG&E to see if you qualify.
Take Action and Save on Energy Costs
The PG&E CARE program and the FERA program are valuable resources for California residents struggling with energy expenses. By understanding the PG&E CARE program guidelines and eligibility requirements, you can determine if you qualify for significant discounts on your monthly bills. Don’t hesitate to reach out to PG&E or a local community agency to learn more and begin your application process today. Start saving money and easing your financial burden by taking advantage of these helpful programs.
