Are you struggling with high energy bills in California? The PG&E CARE program is designed to help eligible low-income customers reduce their monthly electricity and natural gas expenses. By applying for and enrolling in the California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) program through Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E), you could receive significant discounts on your energy bills. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the application for the PG&E CARE program and how to take advantage of this valuable assistance.
Understanding the PG&E CARE Program
The PG&E CARE program provides substantial discounts to help make energy more affordable for households with limited incomes. Qualified customers can receive a 30-35% discount on their electric bill and a 20% discount on their natural gas bill. These discounts can significantly ease the financial burden of essential utility costs, ensuring access to reliable energy without straining your budget.
Image: A table listing utility companies in California along with their emergency payment phone numbers and website links for CARE program information, designed to guide users in finding assistance based on their service provider.
This program is available to customers of utility companies regulated by the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC). While we are focusing on PG&E, similar CARE programs are offered by other providers across California, including:
- Edison (Southern California Edison)
- SDG&E (San Diego Gas & Electric)
- SoCalGas (Southern California Gas Company)
- Alpine Natural Gas
- Bear Valley Electric
- PacifiCorp
- Liberty Utilities
- Southwest Gas
- West Coast Gas
For those not serviced by PG&E, it’s recommended to check the websites or contact these companies directly to learn about their specific CARE program applications.
Who is Eligible for the PG&E CARE Program?
Eligibility for the PG&E CARE program is primarily based on your household income. The program uses income guidelines that are updated annually to reflect changes in the cost of living. As of June 1, 2024, the income limits are effective through May 31, 2025, and are as follows:
| 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 |
Image: A detailed table presenting the CARE program income guidelines, clearly showing the income eligibility upper limit for households of varying sizes, valid from June 1, 2024, to May 31, 2025.
If your total household income falls at or below these limits, you are likely eligible for the PG&E CARE program.
Automatic Enrollment through Public Assistance Programs
Even if you are unsure about your income eligibility, you may automatically 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 can streamline your application for the PG&E CARE program, making the process even easier.
How to Apply for the PG&E CARE Program
Applying for the PG&E CARE program is a straightforward process. Here’s how you can get started:
- Visit the PG&E CARE Website: The easiest way to begin your application for the PG&E CARE program is online. Go to the official PG&E website and navigate to their CARE program page. You can typically find this information under the “Save Energy & Money” or “Payment Assistance” sections. Look for “CARE Program” or “California Alternate Rates for Energy.”
- Download the Application Form: The PG&E website provides the CARE application form in PDF format. You can download and print this form to complete it manually.
- Complete the Application: Fill out all sections of the application form accurately. You will need to provide information about your household size, income, and potentially documentation to verify your eligibility, especially if you are applying based on income limits.
- Submit Your Application: Once you have completed the application, you can submit it to PG&E. The website will provide instructions on how to submit, which may include options to mail it in or submit it electronically in some cases.
- Contact PG&E Directly: If you prefer to apply offline or need assistance with the application process, you can contact PG&E customer service directly at 866-743-2273. They can answer your questions, send you an application form by mail, and guide you through the process.
- Community Agencies: Application forms are also often available through various community agencies and organizations in California. These agencies can also provide assistance with completing and submitting your application.
Important Note: The PG&E CARE program is funded through a rate surcharge paid by all other utility customers, demonstrating a community effort to support low-income households. Income limits are reviewed and may be adjusted annually to keep pace with inflation, ensuring the program continues to serve those who need it most.
Additional Assistance: The Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) Program
For families whose income slightly exceeds the CARE guidelines, there is another option: the Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) program. FERA provides an 18% discount on your electricity bill. FERA is available to customers of PG&E, Southern California Edison, and San Diego Gas and Electric Company.
| 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 |
If your income is slightly above the CARE limits but within the FERA limits, you should inquire about the FERA program when you contact your utility company.
Take the First Step Towards Lower Energy Bills
Don’t let high energy costs strain your budget. Applying for the PG&E CARE program is a crucial step towards making your utility bills more manageable. Visit the PG&E website or call their customer service today to begin your application for the PG&E CARE program. Take advantage of this valuable resource and start saving on your energy bills now!
