The California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) program stands as a vital initiative, offering substantial discounts on energy bills for eligible low-income households. Specifically, participants in the CARE program benefit from a 20 percent reduction on their natural gas expenses, alongside a significant 30-35 percent discount on their electric bills. This program is designed to alleviate the energy cost burden for those who need it most, ensuring access to essential utilities.
To determine if you qualify for these significant savings, understanding the qualifications for the gas company CARE program is crucial. This guide will walk you through the essential criteria, helping you ascertain your eligibility and take the first steps towards reducing your energy bills.
Who Qualifies for the Gas Company CARE Program?
Eligibility for the CARE program is primarily determined by two key factors: household income and enrollment in certain public assistance programs. Let’s delve into each of these qualifications to provide a clear understanding of who can benefit from this program.
Income Qualifications for CARE
The most direct route to qualifying for the CARE program is through meeting specific income limits. These limits are structured based on household size, ensuring that larger households with greater needs are also accommodated. It’s important to note that these income thresholds are updated annually to reflect changes in the cost of living and are effective through May 31, 2025.
The current income guidelines 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 |
If your total household income falls at or below the income limit corresponding to your household size, you are likely to qualify for the CARE program based on income.
Public Assistance Program Enrollment
Alternatively, even if your income slightly exceeds the limits, you may still qualify for CARE if you are currently enrolled in certain public assistance programs. This pathway recognizes that individuals participating in these programs already demonstrate a need for financial assistance. Qualifying public assistance 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 qualifies you for the CARE program, simplifying the application process and ensuring that those already receiving aid can also benefit from reduced energy costs.
How to Apply for the Gas Company CARE Program
Applying for the CARE program is a straightforward process. The primary step is to contact your natural gas utility provider directly. Each utility company has dedicated resources and application forms available to assist you.
You can reach out to your utility company through their customer service phone lines or visit their websites, which often have dedicated sections for assistance programs like CARE. The websites typically provide online application forms and detailed information about the program.
Here is a list of major California gas companies and their contact information to help you get started:
| Phone Numbers and Websites for Energy Assistance Programs |
|---|
| Utility |
| PG&E |
| Edison |
| SDG&E |
| SoCalGas |
| Alpine Nat’l Gas |
| Bear Valley Elect |
| PacifiCorp |
| Liberty Utilities |
| Southwest Gas |
| West Coast Gas |
Community agencies also often have CARE application forms available and can provide assistance with the application process. These agencies serve as valuable local resources to help individuals navigate and access the CARE program benefits.
CARE vs. FERA: Understanding the Difference
While CARE is the primary program for low-income households, California also offers the Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) program. FERA is designed for households whose income slightly exceeds the CARE limits but still struggle with energy costs.
FERA provides an 18% discount on electricity bills (note: FERA is specifically for electricity, while CARE covers both gas and electricity). The income limits for FERA are higher than CARE, catering to a slightly broader range of moderate-income families.
It’s essential to check the specific income guidelines for both CARE and FERA to determine which program best suits your household’s financial situation. If you are unsure, contacting your utility company is the best step to get personalized guidance.
Conclusion: Take Advantage of the Gas Company CARE Program
The Gas Company CARE program is a significant resource for eligible California residents, providing much-needed financial relief on energy bills. By understanding the Gas Company Care Program Qualifications, you can determine if your household is eligible for these valuable discounts. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your gas utility provider to apply and start saving on your energy expenses today. This program is funded by a surcharge on other utility customers, ensuring that those who qualify receive the assistance they deserve.
