Are you a Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) customer in California struggling with high energy bills? Relief may be available through the , designed to help income-qualified households manage their energy costs. This comprehensive guide will explain everything you need to know about the CARE program, its rates, eligibility, and how to apply, ensuring you can access the financial assistance you deserve.
What is the PG&E CARE Program?
The California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) program is a state-mandated initiative that provides significant discounts on energy bills for eligible low-income customers. For PG&E customers, this means a substantial reduction in both your electricity and natural gas expenses. Specifically, participants in the PG&E CARE program receive a 30-35 percent discount on their electric bill and a 20 percent discount on their natural gas bill. These savings can make a real difference in your monthly budget, helping to ensure access to essential energy services.
This program is funded through a small surcharge on other utility customers’ bills, making it a community effort to support those in need. The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) oversees the CARE program, ensuring its effectiveness and accessibility for eligible residents across the state, including PG&E service areas.
Who is Eligible for PG&E CARE Program Rates?
Eligibility for the PG&E CARE program is primarily based on household income. If your total household income falls at or below the income limits outlined below, you are likely eligible to enroll and benefit from the discounted PG&E CARE program rates.
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 |
Note: These income limits are updated annually and are effective from June 1, 2024, to May 31, 2025.
Beyond income, you may also automatically qualify for the PG&E CARE program if you or someone in your household is currently enrolled in certain public assistance programs. These qualifying 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
Enrolling through participation in these programs can streamline your CARE application process.
How to Apply for PG&E CARE Program and Access Discounted Rates
Applying for the PG&E CARE program is a straightforward process. Here’s how you can get started and begin saving with PG&E CARE program rates:
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Visit the PG&E CARE Program Website: The most direct way to apply is online through the official PG&E website. Navigate to the CARE program section, which can be found by searching “PG&E CARE program” on their site or using the link provided in the table below.
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Download or Request an Application Form: You can typically download the CARE application form directly from the website. Alternatively, you can request a form to be mailed to you by contacting PG&E customer service.
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Complete the Application: Fill out the application form accurately and completely. You will need to provide information about your household income and size. If you are qualifying through enrollment in a public assistance program, you will need to provide proof of enrollment.
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Submit Your Application: Submit your completed application form as instructed. This may involve mailing it in or submitting it electronically through the PG&E website.
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Verification and Enrollment: PG&E will review your application to verify your eligibility. Once approved, you will be enrolled in the CARE program, and the discounted PG&E CARE program rates will be applied to your future energy bills.
For additional assistance or to request an application form, you can contact PG&E directly:
- Phone: 866-743-2273
- Website: PG&E CARE Program
Numerous community agencies also partner with PG&E and can provide application assistance and information. Contacting these local agencies can be particularly helpful if you need support with the application process or have questions about your eligibility for PG&E CARE program rates.
Understanding the Discount: PG&E CARE Program Rates Breakdown
As mentioned earlier, the PG&E CARE program offers significant discounts to help low-income customers manage their energy expenses. It’s important to understand exactly how these PG&E CARE program rates translate into savings:
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Electricity Discount: Eligible customers receive a discount ranging from 30% to 35% on their electric bills. The specific percentage may vary slightly, but it consistently provides substantial relief from electricity costs, especially during peak usage seasons.
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Natural Gas Discount: CARE program participants also benefit from a 20% discount on their natural gas bills. This helps reduce the cost of heating, cooking, and other natural gas uses in your home.
These discounts are applied directly to your monthly PG&E bill, making your energy services more affordable and accessible.
Beyond CARE: Other Energy Assistance Programs in California
While the PG&E CARE program is a primary resource for low-income energy bill assistance, California offers other programs you may also be eligible for. One notable 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 program limits but still need assistance managing energy costs. FERA provides an 18% discount on electricity bills for eligible customers of PG&E, Southern California Edison, and San Diego Gas and Electric Company.
FERA Income Guidelines (Effective Through May 31, 2025)
| Household Size | 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 slightly above the CARE guidelines, exploring the FERA program could be beneficial. Contact PG&E or your utility provider to inquire about FERA and other available assistance programs.
Take Control of Your Energy Bills with PG&E CARE
The PG&E CARE program rates offer a vital lifeline for eligible low-income customers in California, providing significant discounts on both electricity and natural gas bills. By understanding the eligibility requirements and application process, you can take proactive steps to reduce your energy expenses and improve your financial well-being. Don’t let high energy costs strain your budget – explore the PG&E CARE program today and see if you qualify for these valuable savings.
