Applying for the SoCalGas CARE program can significantly reduce your energy bills. To ensure your application is processed smoothly, it’s crucial to provide the correct documentation to verify your eligibility. This guide outlines the acceptable documents you’ll need, categorized for easy understanding. Knowing what documents to prepare beforehand will streamline your application and help you access the financial assistance you need.
Documents to Verify Program Participation
If you are currently enrolled in certain public assistance programs, you can use proof of participation to qualify for the SoCalGas CARE program. Make sure your documents are current, ideally within the last 12 months, and clearly show your participation.
Medi-Cal
For Medi-Cal participants, acceptable documents include:
- A current letter of eligibility or your Benefits Identification card, ensuring it has a valid issue date within the last year.
- Form 1095-B, Health Coverage DHCS 68-0317191.
Medi-Cal for Families A&B
Participants in Medi-Cal for Families A&B can provide:
- A current statement that shows your monthly premium amount. This statement should not be older than 12 months.
Women, Infants, & Children (WIC)
For the WIC program, valid documents are:
- Your WIC Authorization Folder (WAF) with your ID Number. This must show a future-dated appointment including month/date/year, or a current WIC voucher.
- An award letter or Notice of Action letter from WIC.
- A screenshot from the WIC phone app showing your appointment.
CalWORKs (TANF), Tribal TANF
If you receive assistance through CalWORKs or Tribal TANF, you can submit:
- A current Notice of Action.
- A computer printout of your benefit letter showing current participation dated within the last 12 months.
Head Start Income Eligible – Tribal Only
For Head Start Income Eligible (Tribal Only) programs, provide:
- A current Award Letter (Notice of Action).
- An approved Head Start application.
- A statement of enrollment in Head Start.
CalFresh (Food Stamps)
To verify CalFresh benefits, you will need:
- A current Award Letter (also known as Notice of Action).
- A letter of eligibility dated within the last 12 months.
Bureau of Indian Affairs – General Assistance
Participants in Bureau of Indian Affairs – General Assistance should provide:
- A current Notice of Action from County Social Services.
- A copy of a current check.
- Your ID card, dated within the last 12 months.
National School Lunch Program (NSLP)
For the National School Lunch Program, acceptable documents include:
- A current Award or Acceptance letter, which must explicitly state NSLP.
- A current school year Acceptance Letter from your school or school district.
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
To demonstrate participation in LIHEAP, you can submit:
- Proof of direct payment to the utility.
- A copy of your Energy Intake Form (CSD 43).
- Proof of LIHEAP Payment to Utility.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
For those receiving Supplemental Security Income, acceptable documents are:
- A Notice of Planned Action dated within the last 12 months.
- A recent bank statement showing direct deposit.
- IRS Form 1099.
Documents for Income Verification
If you are not participating in any of the programs listed above, you can still qualify for the SoCalGas CARE program by providing documentation of your household income. You will need to provide documents for ALL income sources currently applicable to your household. Alternatively, you can submit a complete copy of your most recent federal income tax return, which includes all sources of household income.
Wages, Salary, Paychecks, Tips, Commissions
To verify income from wages, salary, or commissions, provide:
- Copies of your two most recent consecutive pay stubs showing gross income.
- Relevant Federal Tax Forms such as Form 1040, W-2, 1099-M, or others as listed in the original guide.
Social Security (SS), Social Security Income (SSI), Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), Workers Compensation
For income from Social Security or related sources, submit:
- Current statements of Benefits.
- Two most recent copies of checks.
- Bank statements showing deposits.
- IRS Form 1040 or Form 1099.
Unemployment Benefits
To verify unemployment benefits, you can use:
- A copy of a current check or printout from the Employment Development Department.
- Two most recent consecutive checks or check stubs.
- Award Letter/Notice of Action Letter from the Employment Development Department.
Pensions and Annuities
For pensions and annuities, provide:
- Copies of a current check.
- An annual statement from your pension plan.
- Bank statement showing pension deposit.
Profit from Self-Employment
To verify profit from self-employment, acceptable documents include:
- IRS Form 1040, plus Schedule C or C-EZ.
- IRS Form 1099(s).
- Affidavit of Income.
Rental Income, Royalty Income
For rental or royalty income, submit:
- IRS Form 1040, plus Schedule E or Form 1065.
- Rental agreement specifying rent amount and affidavit.
Interest/Dividends from Savings, Retirement Accounts, Stocks, Bonds
To verify interest or dividend income, you can provide:
- Monthly or quarterly statements of interest income from your bank or agency.
- IRS Form 1040 or Form 1099(s).
Other Income Sources
This category covers various income types such as insurance settlements, child support, veteran’s benefits, school grants, support from individuals, and other miscellaneous income. Refer to the detailed table in the original document for specific acceptable documents for each of these sources.
Need Assistance or Have Questions? Contact the SoCalGas CARE Program
If you need further clarification on acceptable documents or have questions about the SoCalGas CARE program, don’t hesitate to reach out. Customer service representatives are available to guide you through the application process and answer any queries you might have. While a direct Socalgas Care Program Phone Number isn’t explicitly provided in this document, you can typically find contact information on the official SoCalGas website under the CARE program section. They can provide detailed support and ensure you submit the correct paperwork for your application.
Ensuring Your Documentation is Accepted
When preparing your documents, keep these points in mind:
- Current Documents: Ensure all documents are current, preferably dated within the last 12 months.
- Clear and Readable: Make sure all copies or screenshots are clear and easy to read.
- Essential Information: Documents must include the issuing agency’s name, your name (or household member’s name), relevant dates, and amounts if proving income.
- Privacy: Black out any Social Security numbers or bank account numbers for your protection.
By carefully preparing and submitting the correct documentation, you can ensure a smooth application process for the SoCalGas CARE program and start saving on your energy bills.
