Are you a Southern California Edison (SCE) customer struggling with your energy bills? You might be eligible for the California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) program, a state-mandated initiative designed to help income-qualified households reduce their monthly electricity and natural gas expenses. This program offers significant discounts, making energy more affordable for those who need it most. Understanding the Sce Care Program Eligibility criteria is the first step towards potentially lowering your utility costs and easing your financial burden.
The CARE program provides a substantial discount on your energy bills. Specifically, customers enrolled in CARE receive a 30-35 percent discount on their electric bill and a 20 percent discount on their natural gas bill. These discounts can make a significant difference in household budgets, freeing up funds for other essential needs.
Who is Eligible for the SCE CARE Program?
Eligibility for the SCE CARE program is primarily based on two key factors: household income and enrollment in certain public assistance programs. Let’s break down each of these criteria to help you determine if you qualify.
Income-Based Eligibility for SCE CARE
The most common way to qualify for the SCE CARE program is through meeting specific income guidelines. These guidelines are updated annually and are based on household size. As of June 1, 2024, the income limits are effective through May 31, 2025, as detailed in the table below:
| 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 determine your eligibility based on income, simply check your total household income against the limit corresponding to your household size. If your income falls at or below the listed limit, you likely qualify for the CARE program based on income.
Program-Based Eligibility for SCE CARE
Even if your income slightly exceeds the income limits, you may still be eligible for the SCE CARE program if you are currently enrolled in one or more 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 any of these programs automatically qualifies you for the SCE CARE program, regardless of your specific income level. This provision ensures that those already receiving aid through other programs can also benefit from reduced energy costs.
How to Apply for the SCE CARE Program with SCE
Applying for the SCE CARE program is a straightforward process. Southern California Edison provides multiple avenues for you to access application forms and get more information.
To start your application, you can visit the SCE website dedicated to the CARE program.
Southern California Edison CARE Program Website
Close-up of the Southern California Edison (SCE) website on a computer screen, displaying the CARE program page with information about energy assistance for eligible customers.
Alternatively, you can contact SCE directly by phone to request an application form or ask any questions you may have about SCE CARE program eligibility.
Edison Customer Service: 866-675-6623
By reaching out through the website or phone, you can obtain the necessary application materials and guidance to complete your enrollment in the CARE program.
Understanding the Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) Program
It’s also important to be aware of the Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) program, a related initiative that provides a smaller discount for households with slightly higher incomes than those eligible for CARE. FERA offers an 18% discount on electricity bills and is available to customers of Southern California Edison, as well as San Diego Gas and Electric Company, and Pacific Gas and Electric Company.
While the FERA program has different income thresholds, it serves as another valuable option for families who may not qualify for CARE but still need assistance with their energy expenses.
| 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 |
If you believe your income might be slightly above the CARE limits, it’s worth exploring whether you qualify for the FERA program. Contact your utility company to inquire about FERA and determine if it’s the right assistance program for your household.
Take Action on Your SCE CARE Program Eligibility
Navigating energy bills can be challenging, especially for households with limited incomes. The SCE CARE program and the FERA program are valuable resources designed to provide financial relief. By understanding the SCE CARE program eligibility requirements and taking the steps to apply, you can potentially reduce your energy costs and improve your overall financial well-being. Don’t hesitate to contact Southern California Edison today to learn more and begin your application process.
