Are you a Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) customer in California struggling with high energy bills? The are designed to provide significant financial relief to eligible low-income households, making energy more affordable. This California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) program offers substantial discounts on both your electricity and natural gas bills. Let’s explore how you can take advantage of these benefits and reduce your energy expenses.
Understanding the PG&E CARE Program and Its Benefits
The PG&E CARE program is a state-mandated initiative in California that helps income-qualified households manage their energy costs. If you’re approved for CARE, you’ll receive a 30-35 percent discount on your electric bill and a 20 percent discount on your natural gas bill. These discounts can significantly lower your monthly expenses, allowing you to allocate your budget to other essential needs.
This program is funded through a surcharge paid by other utility customers, ensuring that those who need assistance the most receive it. The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) regulates these programs and works with utility companies like PG&E to implement them effectively.
Who Qualifies for PG&E CARE Program Benefits?
Eligibility for the PG&E CARE program is primarily based on your household income. The income limits 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, as shown below:
| 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 PG&E CARE program benefits.
Besides income, you can also qualify for CARE if you are currently 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 CARE, simplifying the application process.
How to Apply for PG&E CARE Program Benefits
Applying for the PG&E CARE program is straightforward. The most convenient way to apply is through the PG&E website. Visit the CARE program page on the PG&E website where you can find the online application form and detailed instructions.
You can also request an application form by contacting PG&E directly at 866-743-2273. Additionally, application forms are often available at numerous community agencies throughout California.
Beyond CARE: Other Assistance Programs
While the PG&E CARE program benefits are substantial, you should also be aware of other assistance programs that might be available to you. One such program is the Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) program.
Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) Program
The FERA program is designed for households whose income slightly exceeds the CARE guidelines. FERA provides an 18% discount on your electricity bill. It’s available to customers of PG&E, Southern California Edison, and San Diego Gas and Electric.
Here are the income limits for FERA, effective through May 31, 2025:
| Household | 250% of Federal Poverty Guidelines (FERA) |
|---|---|
| 3 | $64,550 |
| 4 | $78,000 |
| 5 | $91,450 |
| 6 | $104,900 |
| 7 | $118,350 |
| 8 | $131,800 |
| Each Additional Person | $13,450 |
If your income is within these limits, contact PG&E to inquire about the FERA program and determine your eligibility.
Take Advantage of PG&E CARE Program Benefits Today
The PG&E CARE program benefits offer a crucial lifeline for low-income customers in California, providing much-needed relief from high energy costs. By taking the time to check your eligibility and apply, you can significantly reduce your monthly utility bills. Don’t miss out on these valuable savings – visit the PG&E website or call them today to learn more and start your application. Lower energy bills and greater financial stability could be just an application away.
For more information about other energy assistance programs in California, refer to the table below for contact details of various utility companies:
| Phone Numbers and Websites for Energy Assistance Programs |
|---|
| Utility |
| PG&E |
| Edison |
| SDG&E |
| SoCalGas |
| Alpine Nat’l Gas |
| Bear Valley Elect |
| PacifiCorp |
| Liberty Utilities |
| Southwest Gas |
| West Coast Gas |
