This guide will explain what the CARE program is, its benefits for PG&E customers, how to check your enrollment status, and the eligibility requirements you need to meet to start saving. Understanding CARE can help you manage your household expenses and ensure you’re receiving all the assistance you’re entitled to.
What is the California CARE Program?
The California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) program is a state-wide initiative designed to help income-qualified households pay their energy bills. It offers substantial discounts on both electricity and natural gas services, making energy more affordable for those who need it most.
For customers of major California utilities like PG&E, enrolling in CARE means receiving a 30-35 percent discount on your electric bill and a 20 percent discount on your natural gas bill. These discounts can make a significant difference in your monthly expenses, allowing you to allocate your budget to other essential needs.
Alt: A family reviewing their energy bill at home, representing the CARE program’s assistance with energy costs.
Am I Eligible for the CARE Program with PG&E?
Eligibility for the CARE program is primarily based on your household income. There are specific income limits that vary depending on the size of your household. These limits are updated annually to reflect changes in the cost of living.
Current CARE Income Guidelines (Effective through 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 eligible for the CARE program.
Beyond income, you can also qualify for CARE if you are currently enrolled in certain public assistance programs. Enrollment in any of the following programs automatically makes you eligible for CARE:
- 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
If you participate in any of these programs, you can apply for CARE and start receiving discounts on your PG&E bills.
Alt: A diverse group of people representing California households who may be eligible for the CARE program.
How to Check Your CARE Enrollment Status with PG&E
If you are unsure whether you are already enrolled in the CARE program with PG&E, there are several ways to check:
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Review Your PG&E Bill: The easiest way to check your CARE enrollment is to look at your PG&E bill. If you are enrolled in CARE, it will typically be indicated on the bill, often in the bill details section or under program discounts. Look for terms like “CARE discount” or “California Alternate Rates for Energy.”
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Check Your PG&E Online Account: If you have a PG&E online account, you can log in and review your account details. Program enrollments and discounts are usually visible in your account summary or under billing and payment options.
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Contact PG&E Directly: You can call PG&E’s dedicated customer service line to inquire about your CARE enrollment status. The number for PG&E’s energy assistance programs is 866-743-2273. When you call, be prepared to provide your account information for verification.
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Use PG&E’s Website: Visit the PG&E website and navigate to their CARE program pages. While there might not be a direct “check status” tool, the information provided can guide you on how to inquire or manage your enrollment. You can find more information on the PG&E CARE program here: CARE Program – PG&E Website.
By using one of these methods, you can quickly determine if you are currently enrolled in the CARE program and receiving the discounts you are eligible for.
Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) Program: Additional Savings
If your household income slightly exceeds the CARE program limits, you may still be eligible for energy bill assistance through the Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) program. FERA offers a 18% discount on your electricity bill.
FERA Income Guidelines (Effective through May 31, 2025):
| Household Size | FERA Income Eligibility Upper Limit |
|---|---|
| 3 | $64,550 |
| 4 | $78,000 |
| 5 | $91,450 |
| 6 | $104,900 |
| 7 | $118,350 |
| 8 | $131,800 |
| Each Additional Person | $13,450 |
FERA is available to customers of Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E), Southern California Edison, and San Diego Gas and Electric Company. If you don’t qualify for CARE due to income but are close to the limit, FERA could be a valuable option for reducing your electricity costs.
Alt: A comparison infographic highlighting the benefits of CARE and FERA programs for eligible California residents.
Take Action and Start Saving
If you believe you are eligible for the CARE or FERA program, or if you are still unsure about your “am i enrolled in care program pge” status, don’t hesitate to take action. Contact PG&E or visit their website to learn more and begin the application process if you are not already enrolled.
Contact Information for Energy Assistance Programs:
| Utility | Emergency Payment Phone Number | Website for CARE Program |
|---|---|---|
| PG&E | 866-743-2273 | CARE |
| Edison | 866-675-6623 | CARE |
| SDG&E | 800-411-7343 | CARE |
| SoCalGas | 800-427-2200 | CARE |
| Alpine Nat’l Gas | 209-772-3006 | PROGRAMS |
| Bear Valley Elect | 800-808-2837 | CARE |
| PacifiCorp | 888-221-7070 | Financial Assistance |
| Liberty Utilities | 800-782-2506 | CARE |
| Southwest Gas | 877-860-6020 | Special Programs |
| West Coast Gas | 916-364-4100 | CARE |
Lower energy bills can provide significant financial relief. Checking your eligibility and enrollment status for CARE and FERA is a worthwhile step towards managing your household budget effectively. Don’t miss out on potential savings – explore your options today!
