Are you a Southern California Edison (SCE) customer struggling to keep up with your energy bills? You might be eligible for the California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) program, designed to help low-income households manage their energy costs. The CARE program offers significant discounts on your monthly electricity and natural gas bills, making energy more affordable for eligible families and individuals.
The CARE program provides a 30-35% discount on electric bills and a 20% discount on natural gas bills for those who qualify. This substantial reduction can make a real difference in your household budget, freeing up funds for other essential needs.
Who is Eligible for the SCE CARE Program?
Eligibility for the CARE program is primarily based on your household income. Here are the income limits currently in effect until May 31, 2025:
| CARE Income Guidelines* |
|---|
| Household Size |
| 1-2 |
| 3 |
| 4 |
| 5 |
| 6 |
| 7 |
| 8 |
| Each Additional Person |
| * Effective June 1, 2024 to May 31, 2025 |
If your household income falls at or below these limits, you are likely eligible for the CARE program.
Beyond income, you can also qualify for CARE if you are 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 qualifies you for the CARE program, regardless of your specific income level.
How to Apply for the CARE Program with SCE
Applying for the CARE program with Southern California Edison is straightforward. The easiest way to start your application is to visit the SCE website dedicated to the CARE program.
| Phone Numbers and Websites for Energy Assistance Programs |
|---|
| Utility |
| Edison |
You can access the CARE application form and find detailed instructions on the SCE website. The website provides comprehensive information about the program, eligibility requirements, and the application process itself. Click on the “CARE” link in the table above to go directly to the SCE CARE program page.
Alternatively, you can contact SCE directly by phone to request an application form or ask any questions you may have about the CARE program. Call SCE at 866-675-6623 to speak with a representative who can assist you with your CARE application.
Other Energy Assistance Programs: FERA
If your household income slightly exceeds the CARE program limits, you might still be eligible for assistance through the Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) program. FERA offers an 18% discount on your electricity bill and has higher income thresholds than CARE. FERA is available to SCE customers, as well as customers of San Diego Gas and Electric Company, and Pacific Gas and Electric Company.
| 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 think you might qualify for FERA, contact SCE to inquire about the program and the application process.
Take Action and Apply for CARE Today
Don’t let high energy bills strain your budget. If you are an SCE customer and meet the income requirements or participate in a qualifying public assistance program, apply for the CARE program today. Visit the SCE website or call their customer service line to take the first step towards lower energy bills and greater financial stability. Applying for the CARE program for SCE can provide significant relief and help you manage your household expenses more effectively.
