The California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) program is a fantastic initiative designed to help eligible low-income households manage their energy expenses. If you’re a Southern California Edison (SCE) customer struggling with your electricity bills, applying for the SCE CARE program online could significantly ease your financial burden. This program offers substantial discounts on your monthly energy bills, making it easier to keep your home comfortable without breaking the bank.
Understanding the SCE CARE Program and Its Benefits
The CARE program provides a crucial safety net for households that meet specific income requirements or participate in certain public assistance programs. By enrolling in CARE, you can 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 available to customers of various utility companies across California, including Southern California Edison. If you are an SCE customer, you can conveniently apply for the SCE CARE program online, simplifying the application process and making it more accessible than ever before.
Who is Eligible for the SCE CARE Program?
Eligibility for the CARE program is primarily based on 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 SCE CARE program.
Furthermore, you can also qualify for CARE if you are currently enrolled in any of the following public assistance programs:
- 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 SCE CARE Program Online
Applying for the SCE CARE program online is a straightforward process. Southern California Edison has made it easy to submit your application from the comfort of your home. Here’s how you can do it:
- Visit the SCE CARE Program Website: Go to the official Southern California Edison website and navigate to their CARE program page. You can typically find this by searching for “SCE CARE program” on their website or using a search engine like Google. Look for keywords like “Assistance Programs” or “Help Paying Your Bill.”
- Find the Online Application: Once you are on the CARE program page, look for a clear link or button that says “Apply Now” or “Online Application.” SCE has made the online application easily accessible for customer convenience.
- Create an Account or Log In: You may need to create an SCE account or log in to your existing account to access the online application. This ensures your information is securely submitted and linked to your SCE account.
- Fill Out the Application Form: The online application will require you to provide information about your household size, income, and any public assistance programs you participate in. Be prepared to provide accurate details and have any necessary documents readily available, such as proof of income or program enrollment.
- Submit Your Application: After completing the application form, carefully review all the information you have entered and submit it electronically through the website.
Once you submit your application, SCE will review it to determine your eligibility. You will be notified of the status of your application, and if approved, you will begin receiving the CARE program discount on your future energy bills.
What if You Don’t Qualify for CARE? 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. It’s designed to assist families who are just above the CARE income thresholds but still need help managing their energy costs.
FERA is available to customers of Southern California Edison, San Diego Gas and Electric Company, and Pacific Gas and Electric Company. You can inquire about FERA when you apply for CARE or contact your utility provider directly to learn more about the FERA program and its eligibility requirements.
| 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 |
Take Control of Your Energy Bills Today
The SCE CARE program is a valuable resource for low-income households in California, providing much-needed financial relief on energy bills. Don’t let high energy costs strain your budget. Apply for the SCE CARE program online today and see if you qualify for significant discounts. Visit the Southern California Edison website or contact their customer service for more information and to start your application. Taking this step can lead to substantial savings and greater financial stability for your household.
