Saving money on your energy bill is a priority for many California residents, and the California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) program is designed to help. If you’re a Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) customer looking to benefit from this program, you might be wondering, where to mail your PG&E CARE program application? This guide will provide you with all the necessary information to apply for the PG&E CARE program, including mailing instructions and other application options.
Understanding the California CARE Program
The CARE program is a state-wide initiative that offers significant discounts on energy bills for eligible low-income households. Administered by utility companies like PG&E, CARE provides a monthly discount of 30-35 percent on your electric bill and 20 percent on your natural gas bill. This can lead to substantial savings, making energy more affordable for those who qualify. The program is funded by a surcharge paid by other utility customers, ensuring support for those who need it most.
Determining Your Eligibility for PG&E CARE
Eligibility for the CARE program is primarily based on your household income. As of June 1, 2024, the income limits 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 |
Beyond income, you may also qualify for CARE if you are enrolled in certain public assistance programs. These 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 meet either the income guidelines or participate in one of these programs, you are likely eligible for PG&E CARE.
How to Apply for PG&E CARE, Including Mailing Instructions
Applying for the PG&E CARE program is a straightforward process. PG&E offers multiple ways to apply, catering to different preferences.
1. Online Application (Recommended):
The fastest and most convenient way to apply is online through the PG&E website.
- Visit the PG&E CARE program website.
- Click on the “Apply Now” button and follow the online instructions.
- You can typically complete the application within a few minutes and receive quicker processing.
2. Phone Application:
You can also apply over the phone by contacting PG&E directly.
- Call PG&E at 1-866-743-2273.
- Inform the representative that you would like to apply for the CARE program.
- They will guide you through the application process and may ask for information over the phone.
3. Mail Application (For Downloaded Forms):
If you prefer to fill out a physical application form, you can download and print it from the PG&E website.
- Visit the PG&E CARE program website.
- Look for an option to download the CARE application form (often in PDF format).
- Print the form, fill it out completely and accurately.
Once you have completed the paper application, mail it to the following address:
PG&E CARE Program Application Processing Center
P.O. Box 29024
San Francisco, CA 94129
Important Mailing Tips:
- Double-check the address: Ensure you are using the most current mailing address to avoid delays. It’s always a good idea to verify the address on the official PG&E website.
- Use proper postage: Make sure you use sufficient postage to avoid the application being returned.
- Keep a copy: It’s recommended to keep a copy of your completed application for your records.
CARE Programs with Other California Utilities
While this guide focuses on PG&E, the CARE program is available throughout California with various utility companies. Here is a table with contact information and website links for other major utilities offering CARE. If you are not a PG&E customer, find your utility in this list to access their CARE program information and application process.
| 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 |
Conclusion
The PG&E CARE program offers vital financial assistance to eligible low-income customers in California, making energy bills more manageable. Knowing where to mail your PG&E CARE program application is a key step in accessing these benefits if you choose to apply by mail. However, remember that online and phone applications are also available and may offer quicker processing. Take advantage of the CARE program to reduce your energy costs and ensure affordable access to essential utilities. Visit the official PG&E CARE website or contact PG&E directly to start your application process today!
