Are you finding it difficult to manage your energy bills in California? You might be relieved to discover the PG&E CARE program qualifies many low-income households for substantial discounts on their monthly electricity and natural gas expenses. This program is designed to ease the financial burden for eligible customers, ensuring access to essential energy services.
Understanding the PG&E CARE Program and How It Helps
The California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) program, offered by Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E), provides a significant discount to eligible low-income customers. If you qualify, you could receive a 30-35% discount on your electric bill and a 20% discount on your natural gas bill. These discounts can make a real difference in your monthly budget, freeing up funds for other essential needs.
This program is funded through a surcharge on other utility customers’ bills, demonstrating a community effort to support those who need assistance most. The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) oversees these programs, ensuring fair and effective distribution of aid.
Do You Qualify for the PG&E CARE Program? Check the Income Guidelines
Eligibility for the PG&E CARE program is primarily based on your household income. The program uses income limits that are updated annually to reflect changes in the cost of living. As of June 1, 2024, the income guidelines are effective through May 31, 2025, are as follows:
PG&E CARE Income Guidelines (June 1, 2024 – May 31, 2025)
| 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 |
If your household income falls at or below these limits, you are likely to qualify for the PG&E CARE program.
Automatic Qualification Through Public Assistance Programs
Even if your income slightly exceeds the guidelines, you may still qualify for the PG&E CARE program if you are enrolled in certain public assistance programs. These programs demonstrate a need for financial support and can automatically qualify you for CARE. These qualifying 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 simplifies the CARE application process, making it easier for eligible households to receive assistance.
How to Apply for the PG&E CARE Program
Applying for the PG&E CARE program is straightforward. You can start by visiting the official PG&E website dedicated to the CARE program. The website provides detailed information, application forms, and answers to frequently asked questions.
Visit the PG&E CARE Program Website
You can also contact PG&E directly to request an application form or ask any questions you may have about the program and whether the you.
PG&E Contact Number for CARE Program: 866-743-2273
In addition to contacting PG&E directly, application forms are often available through various community agencies and organizations that assist low-income individuals and families.
Explore Additional Assistance: The FERA Program
If your household income slightly exceeds the CARE program limits, you might still be eligible for the Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) program. FERA offers a lower discount of 18% on your electricity bill and is available to customers of PG&E, Southern California Edison, and San Diego Gas and Electric Company.
The income limits for FERA are higher than CARE, making it an option for families who are just above the CARE income threshold but still need help managing energy costs.
| Household Size | 200% of Federal Poverty Guidelines (CARE/ESAP) | 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 |
Contact PG&E or visit their website to learn more about the FERA program and to see if it’s the right option for your family.
Take Control of Your Energy Bills Today
The rising cost of living can make it challenging to manage essential expenses like energy bills. The PG&E CARE program is a valuable resource for low-income California residents, offering much-needed financial relief. By checking your eligibility and applying for the program, you can significantly reduce your monthly energy costs and improve your financial stability. Don’t wait – explore if the PG&E cares program qualifies you and take a step towards energy bill savings today!
