Are you wondering, “Can I apply online for the CARE program?” The answer is yes! California’s CARE program offers significant discounts on energy bills for low-income households, and applying online is often the most convenient way to access these savings. This guide will walk you through how to apply online and understand the benefits of the California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) program.
The CARE program is designed to help eligible customers manage their energy costs by providing a 30-35 percent discount on electric bills and a 20 percent discount on natural gas bills. This substantial reduction can make a real difference for families struggling to afford essential utilities.
How to Apply for the CARE Program Online
Applying for the CARE program online is straightforward. The first step is to identify your utility provider. California’s energy market is served by various utility companies, and each company manages its CARE applications.
To apply online, you will need to visit the website of your specific utility company. Most major California utilities offer online applications for the CARE program directly through their websites. Here’s a list of major utilities and links to their CARE program pages to help you get started:
| Utility | Emergency Payment Phone Number | CARE Program Website |
|---|---|---|
| PG&E | 866-743-2273 | PG&E CARE |
| Edison | 866-675-6623 | SCE CARE |
| SDG&E | 800-411-7343 | SDG&E CARE |
| SoCalGas | 800-427-2200 | SoCalGas CARE |
| Alpine Natural Gas | 209-772-3006 | Alpine Natural Gas Programs |
| Bear Valley Electric | 800-808-2837 | Bear Valley Electric CARE |
| PacifiCorp | 888-221-7070 | PacifiCorp Financial Assistance |
| Liberty Utilities | 800-782-2506 | Liberty Utilities CARE |
| Southwest Gas | 877-860-6020 | Southwest Gas Special Programs |
| West Coast Gas | 916-364-4100 | West Coast Gas CARE |
Simply click on the link corresponding to your utility provider to access their CARE application page. These websites will guide you through the online application process.
Understanding CARE Program Eligibility
Eligibility for the CARE program is primarily based on household income. If your total household income falls at or below the following limits, you are likely eligible for CARE:
| CARE Income Guidelines* |
|---|
| Household Size |
| 1-2 |
| 3 |
| 4 |
| 5 |
| 6 |
| 7 |
| 8 |
| Each Additional Person |
| * Effective June 1, 2024 to May 31, 2025 |
These income limits are updated annually, so it’s important to check the current guidelines. Even if your income slightly exceeds these limits, you may still qualify through participation in certain public assistance programs.
Customers enrolled in programs like Medicaid/Medi-Cal, WIC, SNAP (Food Stamps), SSI, LIHEAP, and others are also automatically eligible for CARE. Enrolling through one of these programs can streamline your CARE application process.
Exploring Additional Energy Assistance: The FERA Program
For families whose income slightly exceeds the CARE program limits, California offers the Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) program. FERA provides an 18% discount on electricity bills. It’s available to customers of PG&E, Southern California Edison, and SDG&E.
Here are the income limits for the FERA program:
| 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 household income falls within these FERA guidelines, contact your electric utility to inquire about applying.
Take the Next Step Towards Energy Savings
Applying online for the CARE program is a simple and effective way to reduce your energy bills if you qualify. Visit your utility provider’s website today to start your application and explore whether the CARE or FERA program can provide crucial financial relief for your household. For any questions or further assistance, don’t hesitate to contact your utility company directly through the phone numbers provided.
