Are you struggling to manage your energy bills in California? Southern California Edison (SCE) offers the California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) program to provide significant discounts to eligible low-income households. This program can substantially reduce your electricity and natural gas expenses, making energy more affordable. If you’re wondering how to qualify for the Edison CARE program, this guide will provide you with a clear understanding of the eligibility criteria, application process, and benefits.
Understanding the Edison CARE Program and its Benefits
The Edison CARE program is designed to help income-qualified households save money on their utility bills. Enrolling in CARE can lead to savings of 30-35% on your electric bill and 20% on your natural gas bill. These discounts are crucial for families and individuals with limited incomes, helping them to maintain essential energy services without financial strain. The program is funded through a surcharge on other utility customers’ bills, ensuring support for those who need it most.
To determine if you are eligible for these valuable discounts, let’s explore the qualification requirements.
Income Eligibility Guidelines for Edison CARE
The primary way to qualify for the Edison CARE program is based on your household income. These income limits are updated annually to reflect changes in the cost of living. As of June 1, 2024, the income eligibility upper limits 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 |
If your total household income falls at or below these limits, you are likely to qualify for the Edison CARE program based on income. It’s important to note that these guidelines are effective through May 31, 2025, and may be subject to change in subsequent years.
Automatic Enrollment Through Public Assistance Programs
Even if your income slightly exceeds the direct income limits, you may still qualify for the Edison CARE program if you or a member of your household is enrolled in certain public assistance programs. These programs demonstrate a need for financial assistance, and automatic enrollment in CARE is often available for participants in programs such as:
- 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 can serve as automatic qualification for the Edison CARE program, simplifying the application process for many eligible households.
How to Apply for the Edison CARE Program
To apply for the Edison CARE program, Southern California Edison provides several convenient options. The most direct approach is to visit the SCE website dedicated to assistance programs. You can find detailed information and application forms directly on their site.
Website: CARE
Alternatively, you can contact Edison’s dedicated phone line for assistance programs to request an application form or ask questions about your eligibility:
Phone: 866-675-6623
Application forms are also often available through community agencies and organizations that assist low-income families. These agencies can provide guidance and support throughout the application process.
What if You Don’t Qualify for CARE? Explore the 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 offers an 18% discount on your electricity bill and has higher income thresholds than CARE. FERA is available to customers of Southern California Edison, Pacific Gas and Electric Company, and San Diego Gas and Electric Company.
| 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 |
If your income falls within these FERA guidelines, contacting your utility company is recommended to explore your eligibility for this program.
Take the Next Step Towards Energy Savings
The Edison CARE program is a vital resource for low-income households in California, providing crucial financial relief on energy bills. By understanding the income guidelines and alternative qualification methods through public assistance programs, you can determine your eligibility and take the necessary steps to apply. Don’t hesitate to reach out to Southern California Edison through their website or phone line to begin your application and start saving on your energy costs today. Affordable energy is within reach – explore the Edison CARE program and see how it can help you.
