Are you looking for ways to lower your energy bills in California? The California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) program offers significant discounts to eligible low-income households, making energy more affordable. This program can reduce your electricity bill by 30-35 percent and your natural gas bill by 20 percent. If you’re wondering how to apply for the California CARE program and take advantage of these savings, you’ve come to the right place. This guide will walk you through the application process and provide all the essential information you need to get started.
Understanding the California CARE Program
The CARE program is designed to help low-income customers manage their energy costs. By providing substantial discounts on both electricity and natural gas, CARE ensures that essential energy services remain accessible to those who need them most. This initiative is funded through a surcharge paid by other utility customers and overseen by the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC).
Alt: Resource wheel graphic showing options for customer service and energy saving programs, including CARE, to represent energy assistance program information.
Who is Eligible for the CARE Program?
Eligibility for the CARE program is primarily based on household income. To qualify, your total household income must be at or below the specified income limits. These limits are updated annually to reflect changes in inflation and the cost of living.
Current Income Limits (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 |
Beyond income, you may also be eligible 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
If you participate in any of these programs, you automatically meet one of the eligibility criteria for CARE.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for the California CARE Program
Applying for the CARE program is a straightforward process. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the application:
Step 1: Identify Your Utility Provider
California has several utility companies, and the application process is managed directly through them. Determine which utility company provides your electricity and/or natural gas service. Refer to your energy bill if you are unsure. The major utility companies regulated by the California Public Utilities Commission include:
- PG&E (Pacific Gas and Electric Company)
- 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
Step 2: Visit Your Utility Company’s Website or Contact Them Directly
The easiest way to apply for the CARE program is online through your utility provider’s website. Most utility companies have dedicated sections on their websites for assistance programs, including CARE. You can typically find the CARE application form and detailed instructions there.
Alternatively, you can contact your utility company directly by phone to request an application form and get more information. Here are the contact details for the major utilities:
| Utility | Phone Number | Website for CARE Program |
|---|---|---|
| PG&E | 866-743-2273 | CARE |
| Edison | 866-675-6623 | CARE |
| SDG&E | 800-411-7343 | CARE |
| SoCalGas | 800-427-2200 | CARE |
| Alpine Nat’l Gas | 209-772-3006 | PROGRAMS |
| Bear Valley Elect | 800-808-2837 | CARE |
| PacifiCorp | 888-221-7070 | Financial Assistance |
| Liberty Utilities | 800-782-2506 | CARE |
| Southwest Gas | 877-860-6020 | Special Programs |
| West Coast Gas | 916-364-4100 | CARE |
Step 3: Complete the Application Form
Whether you apply online or through a paper form, you will need to provide accurate information about your household size, income, and participation in any qualifying public assistance programs. Be prepared to provide documentation to verify your income or program enrollment if requested.
Step 4: Submit Your Application
Follow the instructions provided by your utility company to submit your application. Online applications can be submitted directly through the website. For paper applications, you may need to mail it to the address provided or submit it through other specified channels.
Step 5: Wait for Confirmation
After submitting your application, allow some time for processing. Your utility company will notify you of the status of your application and whether you have been approved for the CARE program. Once approved, you will start seeing the discounts reflected on your energy bills.
What is the Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) Program?
If your household income slightly exceeds the CARE program limits, you might still be eligible for assistance through the Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) program. FERA provides an 18% discount on your electricity bill for eligible customers of Southern California Edison, San Diego Gas and Electric Company, and Pacific Gas and Electric Company. Contact your electric utility to inquire about FERA if you believe your income may be slightly too high for CARE but still need assistance.
FERA Income Limits (Effective Through May 31, 2025):
| Household Size | FERA Income Eligibility Upper Limit |
|---|---|
| 3 | $64,550 |
| 4 | $78,000 |
| 5 | $91,450 |
| 6 | $104,900 |
| 7 | $118,350 |
| 8 | $131,800 |
| Each Additional Person | $13,450 |
Conclusion
The California CARE program is a valuable resource for low-income households seeking to reduce their energy expenses. By understanding the eligibility requirements and following these steps on how to apply for the California CARE program, you can take advantage of these discounts and make your energy bills more manageable. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your utility provider for assistance and start saving today.
Alt: Happy woman reviewing a reduced energy bill at home, representing the benefit of energy assistance programs like CARE.
