The California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) program is designed to help low-income households in California afford their energy bills. If you’re a customer of Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) and are wondering if you qualify for assistance, understanding the CARE program income guidelines is the first step. This program offers substantial discounts on both electricity and natural gas bills, making energy more accessible for eligible residents.
Understanding the PG&E CARE Program
The CARE program provides a significant discount to help eligible customers manage their energy costs. Specifically, those enrolled in CARE receive a 30-35 percent discount on their electric bill and a 20 percent discount on their natural gas bill. This financial relief can be crucial for households with limited incomes, helping to ensure they can maintain essential utility services.
To determine if you are eligible for these savings, income is a primary factor. However, enrollment in certain public assistance programs can also qualify you for CARE, regardless of your specific income level.
PG&E CARE Income Guidelines for 2024-2025
To qualify for the PG&E CARE program based on income, your total household income must be at or below the limits outlined below. These income guidelines are 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 |
Effective June 1, 2024 to May 31, 2025
This table clearly illustrates the income thresholds based on household size. For instance, a household of four must have a total annual income of $62,400 or less to meet the income requirements for the PG&E CARE program. For each additional person beyond eight, an extra $10,760 is added to the income limit.
Automatic Enrollment through Public Assistance Programs
Even if your income slightly exceeds these guidelines, you may still be eligible for the PG&E CARE program if you are 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
Enrollment in any of these programs automatically qualifies you for CARE, simplifying the application process and ensuring that those already receiving aid can also benefit from reduced energy costs.
How to Apply for PG&E CARE
To apply for the PG&E CARE program, you can take several actions:
- Visit the PG&E Website: The quickest way to access information and application forms is through the official PG&E CARE program website. You can often apply online directly through their portal.
- Contact PG&E Directly: Call PG&E at 866-743-2273 to request an application form by mail or to ask any specific questions about your eligibility and the application process.
- Community Agencies: Application forms are also frequently available through various community-based organizations and agencies that assist low-income individuals and families.
Beyond CARE: Exploring the Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) Program
For families whose income slightly surpasses the CARE allowances, the Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) program offers another avenue for energy bill relief. FERA provides an 18% discount on electricity bills. It’s available to customers of PG&E, Southern California Edison, and San Diego Gas and Electric Company.
Here are the income limits for the FERA program, also 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 |
If your household income falls within these FERA guidelines but exceeds the CARE limits, you should investigate the FERA program to see if you qualify for this additional assistance.
Take the Next Step Towards Energy Savings
Understanding the PG&E CARE program income guidelines is essential for determining your eligibility for energy bill discounts. Whether you meet the income criteria or qualify through participation in public assistance programs, exploring the CARE program can significantly reduce your monthly energy expenses. If CARE isn’t the right fit, remember to check if the FERA program can offer support. Contact PG&E or visit their website today to learn more and begin your application process.
