Understanding the PGE CARE Program
The PGE CARE program is a state-mandated initiative that offers substantial discounts to income-qualified customers. Specifically, if you’re enrolled in CARE through PG&E, you can receive a discount of 30-35 percent on your electric bill and a 20 percent discount on your natural gas bill. These discounts can significantly ease the financial burden of energy costs, ensuring that essential services remain accessible.
This program is funded through a surcharge paid by other utility customers, demonstrating a community effort to support vulnerable households. The income limits for CARE eligibility are updated annually to reflect changes in the cost of living and inflation, ensuring the program remains relevant and accessible to those who need it most.
Who is Eligible for the PGE CARE Program?
Eligibility for the PGE CARE program is primarily based on household income. As of June 1, 2024, the income limits are effective through May 31, 2025, and are as follows:
| 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, you may also automatically qualify for the PGE 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)
- CalFresh/SNAP (Food Stamps)
- 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 can streamline your application process for the PGE CARE program, making it easier to access the financial assistance you need.
Benefits of Enrolling in the PGE CARE Program
The primary benefit of the PGE CARE program is the substantial discount on your monthly energy bills. Receiving a 30-35% discount on electricity and a 20% discount on natural gas can lead to significant savings throughout the year. These savings can free up household budgets for other essential needs such as food, healthcare, and transportation.
For electrical corporations with 100,000 or more customer accounts in California, the discount is mandated at 30%-35% as per Public Utilities Code Section 739.1. Smaller electrical corporations offer a 20% discount. PG&E, being a large provider, adheres to the higher discount range, maximizing benefits for its CARE program participants.
How to Apply for the PGE CARE Program
To apply for the PGE CARE program, the most direct approach is to visit the official PGE website. PG&E provides comprehensive information and application forms online, making the process accessible from your home.
You can visit the PGE CARE program page directly at: CARE.
On this page, you will find detailed information about the program, eligibility requirements, and step-by-step instructions on how to apply. You can typically download application forms or apply directly online through the PGE website.
If you prefer to apply offline or need assistance, you can contact PG&E directly using the provided phone number for energy assistance programs: 866-743-2273. Additionally, application forms are often available through various community agencies and organizations that assist low-income families.
Exploring the Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) Program
For families whose income slightly exceeds the CARE program limits, the Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) program offers another avenue for energy bill relief. The FERA program provides an 18% discount on electricity bills for eligible customers of Southern California Edison, San Diego Gas and Electric Company, and Pacific Gas and Electric Company.
The income limits for FERA are higher than those for CARE, making it an option for households that are just above the CARE income threshold but still struggle with energy costs. Here are the income limits for FERA, effective through May 31, 2025:
| Household | 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 |
If your household income falls within these limits and you are not eligible for CARE, it is worth exploring the FERA program to see if you qualify for electricity bill discounts.
Take Action and Save on Your Energy Bills
Navigating energy costs can be challenging, but programs like the PGE CARE program and FERA are valuable resources for eligible California residents. By taking the time to check your eligibility and apply, you can potentially reduce your energy bills significantly and improve your household’s financial stability.
Visit the PGE.com CARE program website today to learn more and start your application. For further assistance and information on other support programs, do not hesitate to contact your utility company.
