Are you struggling to keep up with your energy bills in California? The California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) program is designed to help eligible low-income households like yours reduce their electricity and natural gas costs. This program offers significant discounts, making energy more affordable. If you’re looking for ways to ease your financial burden and manage your utility expenses, understanding How To Apply For The Care Program is your first step.
Understanding the California CARE Program
The CARE program is a state-sponsored initiative dedicated to assisting low-income customers in managing their energy expenses. By enrolling in CARE, you can receive a discount of 30-35% on your electric bill and a 20% discount on your natural gas bill. These discounts are substantial and can make a real difference in your monthly budget. The program is funded by a surcharge paid by other utility customers, ensuring its sustainability and reach across California.
Checking Your Eligibility for the CARE Program
Eligibility for the CARE program is primarily based on your household income and size. As of June 1, 2024, the income limits 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 |
The table above shows the CARE income guidelines for different household sizes, effective from June 1, 2024 to May 31, 2025.
Even if your income is within these limits, there’s another way to qualify. You are automatically eligible for CARE if you are 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 these programs demonstrates your need and automatically qualifies you for the CARE discounts.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for the CARE Program
Applying for the CARE program is a straightforward process. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you:
-
Determine Your Eligibility: First, check if your household income falls within the guidelines mentioned above or if you participate in any of the qualifying public assistance programs.
-
Gather Necessary Information: Before you start the application, collect the required information. This typically includes:
- Your utility account number.
- Information about your household size and income.
- If qualifying through a public assistance program, have proof of enrollment ready, though often just stating enrollment is sufficient.
-
Contact Your Utility Company: The next step is to get in touch with your utility provider. Each utility company in California manages its own CARE program applications. You can contact them via phone or through their website. Here’s a list of major California utilities and links to their CARE program pages:
| 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 |
This table provides contact information for various California utility companies to inquire about the CARE program and application process.
- Complete and Submit the Application: You can typically apply for CARE online through your utility company’s website or request a paper application form to be mailed to you. Fill out the application form accurately and submit it as instructed by your utility provider.
What if You Don’t Qualify for CARE? Consider FERA
If your household income slightly exceeds the CARE program limits, you might still be eligible for the Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) program. FERA offers an 18% discount on your electricity bill for eligible customers of certain utility companies like Southern California Edison, San Diego Gas and Electric Company, and Pacific Gas and Electric Company. Contact your electric utility to see if you qualify for FERA based on your income.
Take Control of Your Energy Bills Today
The CARE program is a valuable resource for low-income California residents seeking assistance with their energy bills. By understanding the eligibility criteria and following the application steps, you can access significant discounts and make your energy costs more manageable. Don’t hesitate to contact your utility company today to learn more and begin your application. Take the first step towards financial relief and a more comfortable home environment.
