Are you a California resident struggling with high energy costs? The California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) program, particularly the , offers substantial discounts on your electricity and natural gas bills. This vital program, available through Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) and other utility providers, is designed to help income-qualified households manage their energy expenses.
What is the California CARE Program?
The CARE program is a state-mandated initiative that provides significant discounts to eligible low-income customers. If you qualify, you can receive a 30-35% discount on your electric bill and a 20% discount on your natural gas bill. This can translate to considerable savings each month, making energy more affordable for those who need it most. The program is funded through a surcharge paid by other utility customers, ensuring its sustainability and reach.
PG&E CARE Program: Your Direct Savings Pathway
For residents within PG&E’s service area, the www.pge.com/care program is your gateway to these valuable savings. PG&E, one of California’s largest utility companies, administers the CARE program, ensuring eligible customers receive the maximum allowed discounts. Navigating to www.pge.com/care will provide you with detailed information about the program, eligibility requirements, and the application process specific to PG&E customers.
Eligibility for the PG&E CARE Program
To qualify for the www.pg&e care program discounts, your household income must fall at or below specific income limits. These limits are updated annually to reflect changes in the cost of living. As of June 1, 2024, the income guidelines 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 |
Beyond income, you may also be eligible for the www.pg&e care program 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 automatically qualifies you for CARE, simplifying the application process.
How to Apply for the PG&E CARE Program
Applying for the www.pg&e care program is straightforward. You can access the application form and detailed instructions directly on the PG&E website at www.pge.com/care. The website provides a user-friendly interface to guide you through the process.
Alternatively, you can request an application form by contacting PG&E directly at 866-743-2273. Customer service representatives can answer your questions and provide assistance with the application process. Application forms are also available through numerous community agencies throughout California, offering another avenue for enrollment.
CARE Programs with Other California Utilities
While www.pge.com/care is specific to PG&E customers, the CARE program is available across California through various utility providers. Here’s a list of other major utilities and links to their CARE program information:
- Edison: CARE – www.sce.com/care
- SDG&E: CARE – www.sdge.com/care
- SoCalGas: CARE – www.socalgas.com/care
- Alpine Natural Gas: PROGRAMS – www.alpinenaturalgas.com/programs
- Bear Valley Electric: CARE – www.bvesinc.com/care
- PacifiCorp: Financial Assistance – www.pacificpower.net/care
- Liberty Utilities: CARE – www.libertyutilities.com/care
- Southwest Gas: Special Programs – www.swgas.com/care
- West Coast Gas: CARE – www.westcoastgas.com/care
No matter your location in California, there’s a CARE program available to assist you.
Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) Program
For families whose income slightly exceeds the CARE guidelines, the Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) program offers additional support. FERA provides an 18% discount on your electricity bill. It is available to customers of Southern California Edison, San Diego Gas and Electric Company, and Pacific Gas and Electric Company.
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 slightly above the CARE limits, explore the FERA program to see if you qualify for these additional savings.
Conclusion: Take Control of Your Energy Costs
The California CARE and FERA programs are crucial resources for eligible households seeking to reduce their energy bills. Specifically, the www.pg&e care program offers a direct path to significant savings for PG&E customers. Don’t let high energy costs strain your budget. Visit www.pge.com/care or contact your utility provider today to learn more and apply for the program that best fits your needs. Take advantage of these valuable programs and make energy more affordable for your family.
