Are you struggling to keep up with your energy bills in San Diego? The San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E) CARE program is here to help. This vital program offers significant discounts on your monthly gas and electric bills, making energy more affordable for eligible households. If you’re a low-income customer, understanding and applying for the CARE program can lead to substantial savings and ease financial strain.
Understanding the SDG&E CARE Program
The California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) program is a state-wide initiative designed to assist low-income households with their energy expenses. SDG&E, as a major utility provider in the San Diego region, participates in CARE, offering eligible customers a discount of 30-35% on their electric bills and 20% on their natural gas bills. This discount can make a real difference in your monthly budget, freeing up funds for other essential needs.
The CARE program is funded through a surcharge paid by other utility customers, ensuring its sustainability and continued support for those who need it most. It’s overseen by the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) and the Low-Income Oversight Board (LIOB), ensuring accountability and effectiveness.
Who Qualifies for the SDG&E CARE Program?
Eligibility for the SDG&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:
| 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 |
These income guidelines are subject to change and are effective from June 1, 2024, to May 31, 2025.
Beyond income, you may also qualify for CARE if you or someone in your household is 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)
- 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 makes you eligible for the SDG&E CARE program, simplifying the application process.
How to Apply for the SDG&E CARE Program
Applying for the SDG&E CARE program is straightforward. SDG&E provides easy access to application forms and information through multiple channels.
To get started, you can:
- Visit the SDG&E Website: The SDG&E website has a dedicated section for payment and bill assistance programs, including CARE. You can find detailed information and online application forms there: SDG&E CARE Program
- Call SDG&E Customer Service: You can request an application form and ask any questions you may have by calling SDG&E directly at 800-411-7343. Customer service representatives are available to guide you through the process.
- Community Agencies: Application forms are also often available at various community agencies throughout San Diego. These agencies can also provide assistance with the application process.
Once you submit your application, SDG&E will review it to determine your eligibility. If approved, you will start receiving the CARE discount on your next billing cycle.
Explore Additional Assistance: The FERA Program
If your household income slightly exceeds the CARE program limits, you might still be eligible for energy bill assistance through the Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) program. FERA offers a 18% discount on your electricity bill. While less substantial than the CARE discount, FERA can still provide valuable savings.
FERA has higher income limits than CARE, making it accessible to a broader range of families. It’s available to customers of SDG&E, along with Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E), and Southern California Edison (SCE).
To check your eligibility for FERA, refer to the income guidelines below, 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 you believe you might qualify for FERA, contact SDG&E to inquire about the program and application process.
Conclusion: Take Control of Your Energy Costs with SDG&E CARE
The SDG&E CARE program and the FERA program are valuable resources for San Diego residents struggling with energy costs. By taking advantage of these programs, eligible households can significantly reduce their monthly expenses and improve their financial well-being. Don’t let high energy bills strain your budget – explore the SDG&E CARE program today and see if you qualify for much-needed assistance. Visit the SDG&E website or call their customer service line to learn more and start your application.
