Are you a California resident struggling to afford your energy bills? You might be eligible for the California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) program. This program offers significant discounts on electricity and natural gas for qualifying low-income households. This article will help you understand what the CARE program is, who qualifies, and how to apply.
What Discounts Does the CARE Program Offer?
CARE provides substantial savings on your energy bills. Depending on your utility company, you can receive a 30-35% discount on your electricity bill and a 20% discount on your natural gas bill. These discounts can make a real difference in your monthly expenses.
Who is Eligible for the CARE Program?
Eligibility for the CARE program is based on your total household income. If your household income is at or below the specified limits, you likely qualify. These income limits are adjusted annually and are currently in effect through May 31, 2025.
Alternative Qualification Paths for CARE
You may also qualify for CARE if you participate in certain public assistance programs. Enrollment in programs like Medicaid/Medi-Cal, Women, Infants and Children (WIC), Healthy Families A & B, National School 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, and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) or Tribal TANF can automatically qualify you for CARE, regardless of your income.
How to Apply for the CARE Program
To apply for CARE, contact your local utility company. You can find application forms and more information on their websites. Application forms are often available through community agencies as well.
Participating Utility Companies in California
Several utility companies participate in the CARE program. Here’s a list of companies and their contact information:
- PG&E: 866-743-2273, Website
- Southern California Edison: 866-675-6623, Website
- SDG&E: 800-411-7343, Website
- SoCalGas: 800-427-2200, Website
- And More – Contact your local provider for details.
Funding for the CARE Program
The CARE program is funded through a small surcharge on the bills of other utility customers, ensuring that assistance is available for those who need it most.
The Family Electric Rate Assistance Program (FERA)
If your income slightly exceeds the CARE limits, you might qualify for the Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) program, which offers an 18% discount on electricity bills. Contact your utility company to see if you are eligible for FERA.
Finding More Information
For further details on the CARE program, eligibility requirements, and application procedures, contact your local utility company or visit the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) website. Don’t hesitate to reach out – saving money on your energy bills could be just a phone call away.
