Are you looking for ways to lower your San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E) bill? The California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) program offers significant discounts to eligible low-income customers. If you’re wondering, , this guide will provide you with a clear understanding of the eligibility requirements and how to access this valuable assistance.
Understanding the SDG&E CARE Program
The CARE program is designed to help income-qualified households manage their energy costs. SDG&E customers enrolled in CARE receive a substantial discount on their monthly bills, specifically a 30-35 percent discount on electric bills and a 20 percent discount on natural gas bills. This can make a significant difference in household budgets, ensuring access to essential energy services. For more detailed information and to apply, you can visit the SDG&E CARE program page directly.
| Phone Numbers and Websites for Energy Assistance Programs |
|---|
| Utility |
| PG&E |
| Edison |
| SDG&E |
| SoCalGas |
| Alpine Nat’l Gas |
| Bear Valley Elect |
| PacifiCorp |
| Liberty Utilities |
| Southwest Gas |
| West Coast Gas |
Income Requirements for SDG&E CARE
One of the primary ways to qualify for the SDG&E CARE program is based on your household income. There are specific income limits that you must meet to be eligible. These limits are updated annually and are based on household size. For the period effective through May 31, 2025, the income guidelines are as follows:
| CARE Income Guidelines* |
|---|
| Household Size |
| 1-2 |
| 3 |
| 4 |
| 5 |
| 6 |
| 7 |
| 8 |
| Each Additional Person |
| * Effective June 1, 2024 to May 31, 2025 |
To determine if you qualify through income, check your total gross household income against these limits. If your income is at or below the limit corresponding to your household size, you are likely eligible for the SDG&E CARE program based on income.
Eligibility Through Public Assistance Programs
Even if your income slightly exceeds the guidelines, you may still qualify for the SDG&E CARE program if you are enrolled in certain public assistance programs. This is another important pathway to eligibility. Qualifying public assistance 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 or someone in your household participates in any of these programs, you automatically meet the eligibility criteria for the SDG&E CARE program, regardless of your gross household income.
Additional Information and How to Apply for SDG&E CARE
The CARE program is funded through a surcharge paid by all utility customers, ensuring its sustainability and availability for those who need it most. Application forms are readily available through community agencies and directly from SDG&E.
For complete details, application forms, and to start saving on your energy bills, visit the official SDG&E website dedicated to customer assistance programs. You can also contact SDG&E directly at 800-411-7343 for personalized assistance and to request an application form.
It’s also worth noting that the California Low-Income Oversight Board (LIOB) advises the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) on low-income assistance programs, further ensuring the programs effectively serve the community.
What is the Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) Program?
For families whose income slightly exceeds the CARE program limits, there’s another option: the Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) program. FERA provides an 18% discount on electricity bills for eligible customers of SDG&E, Southern California Edison, and Pacific Gas and Electric Company.
| Household | 200% of Federal Poverty Guidelines (CARE/ESAP) +1 | 250% of Federal Poverty Guidelines (FERA) |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | $51,641 | $64,550 |
| 4 | $62,401 | $78,000 |
| 5 | $73,161 | $91,450 |
| 6 | $83,921 | $104,900 |
| 7 | $94,681 | $118,350 |
| 8 | $105,441 | $131,800 |
| Each Additional Person | $10,760 | $13,450 |
If your household income falls within the FERA income guidelines and you are an SDG&E customer, you may be eligible for this program. Contact SDG&E to inquire about FERA and see if it’s the right option for your family.
In conclusion, qualifying for the SDG&E CARE program is primarily based on household income or enrollment in qualifying public assistance programs. By checking the income guidelines and exploring the different eligibility pathways, you can determine if you are eligible for significant savings on your SDG&E energy bills. Don’t hesitate to contact SDG&E or visit their website to apply and start benefiting from these valuable assistance programs.
