The PG&E CARE program offers a substantial discount of 30-35 percent on electric bills and 20 percent on natural gas bills. This can translate to significant savings, making energy expenses more manageable for qualifying households. To determine if you qualify, income verification is a primary requirement.
Understanding Income Eligibility for PG&E CARE
Eligibility for the PG&E CARE program is largely based on your household income. The program is designed to support those whose income falls at or below specific limits. These income limits are updated annually to reflect changes in the cost of living. For the period effective through May 31, 2025, the 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 |
To verify your income for the PG&E CARE program, you will need to provide documentation to support your household’s gross annual income. Acceptable forms of income verification can include:
- Pay stubs: Recent pay stubs that show your gross income before deductions.
- W-2 forms: Wage and Tax Statements from your employer.
- Tax returns: Copies of your most recent federal or state tax returns.
- Social Security Administration documents: Statements showing Social Security benefits.
- Pension or retirement statements: Documents outlining pension or retirement income.
- Public assistance program documentation: Proof of enrollment in qualifying public assistance programs (more details below).
It’s important to note that PG&E may request different or additional documentation depending on your specific circumstances. Ensuring you have the necessary documents ready will streamline your application process.
Additional Eligibility Pathways for PG&E CARE
Besides income verification, you may also automatically qualify for the PG&E CARE program if you are currently enrolled in certain public assistance programs. Enrollment in these programs serves as automatic income verification for CARE. 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
If you participate in any of these programs, you can provide proof of enrollment instead of traditional income verification documents. This can simplify the application process significantly.
How to Apply for the PG&E CARE Program
Applying for the PG&E CARE program is a straightforward process. You can apply online through the PG&E website, by phone, or by mail.
- Online: Visit the PG&E CARE program website at https://www.pge.com/en_US/residential/save-energy-money/help-paying-your-bill/longer-term-assistance/care/care.page and look for the CARE application section.
- Phone: Call PG&E at 866-743-2273 to request an application form and get assistance with the application process.
- Mail: You can download an application form from the PG&E website or request one by phone to be mailed to you. Once completed, you can mail it back to PG&E.
When applying, be sure to have your income verification documents or proof of enrollment in a qualifying public assistance program readily available. This will help ensure a smooth and efficient application process.
Exploring Additional Assistance: The FERA Program
If your household income slightly exceeds the CARE program limits, you may still be eligible for assistance through the Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) program. FERA offers an 18% discount on your electric bill. The income limits for FERA are higher than CARE, making it an option for families with slightly higher incomes who still need help managing energy costs.
| 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 |
Contact PG&E to inquire about the FERA program and determine if your household qualifies.
Conclusion: Take Advantage of PG&E CARE Savings
The PG&E CARE program is a valuable resource for low-income California residents seeking to reduce their energy bills. Understanding the income verification process and gathering the necessary documentation are key steps to accessing these savings. Don’t let high energy costs strain your budget. Explore the PG&E CARE program today and take advantage of the financial assistance available to eligible households. Visit the PG&E website or call their customer service line to begin your application and start saving on your energy bills.
