Facing the rising costs of college can be daunting, and utility bills are often an overlooked expense. If you’re a college student in California, especially in PG&E territory, you might be wondering: Can college students get the CARE program under PG&E to help manage energy costs? The answer is yes, college students can be eligible for the California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) program offered by Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E), and this guide will explain how.
Understanding the CARE Program and its Benefits
The CARE program is a state-wide initiative designed to assist low-income households with their energy bills. It provides significant discounts on both electricity and natural gas, making energy more affordable for those who qualify. Specifically, CARE offers a 30-35% discount on electric bills and a 20% discount on natural gas bills for eligible customers. These savings can be substantial, providing much-needed financial relief to students managing tight budgets.
For college students, especially those living off-campus and responsible for their own utility bills, the CARE program can be a game-changer. These discounts can free up funds for other essential expenses like books, tuition, and living costs.
Are College Students Eligible for CARE under PG&E?
Eligibility for the CARE program is primarily based on household income. College students can qualify for CARE if they meet the income guidelines. It’s crucial to understand how “household” is defined in the context of student eligibility.
Generally, if a student is financially independent and responsible for their own living expenses, they can be considered their own household. This means that if a student’s individual income falls within the CARE income limits, they can be eligible, regardless of their parents’ income.
Here are the CARE income guidelines currently in effect:
| CARE Income Guidelines* |
|---|
| Household Size |
| 1-2 |
| 3 |
| 4 |
| 5 |
| 6 |
| 7 |
| 8 |
| Each Additional Person |
| * Effective June 1, 2024 to May 31, 2025 |
If your household size (which could be just you, or you and your roommates) and income fall within these limits, you are likely eligible for CARE.
Beyond Income: Public Assistance Programs
Even if your income slightly exceeds these limits, you might still qualify for CARE if you are enrolled in certain public assistance programs. Many college students may be recipients of programs that automatically qualify them for CARE. These 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 are categorically eligible for CARE, regardless of your exact income level, as long as you are a PG&E customer and meet other basic program requirements.
How College Students Can Apply for CARE with PG&E
Applying for the CARE program is a straightforward process. PG&E makes it easy to access the application and get assistance. Here’s how you can apply:
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Visit the PG&E CARE Program Website: The most direct way to start your application is by visiting the official PG&E CARE program website. You can easily find it by searching “PG&E CARE program” online.
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Online Application: PG&E typically offers an online application portal, which is often the quickest and most convenient method. You can fill out the application form directly on their website and submit it electronically.
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Phone Application: If you prefer to apply over the phone or need assistance with the application process, you can contact PG&E directly at 866-743-2273. Customer service representatives can guide you through the application process and answer any questions you may have.
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Mail Application: You can also request a CARE program application form to be mailed to you. Contact PG&E via phone or check their website for instructions on how to request a mail-in application.
-
Community Agencies: Application forms are also often available at various community agencies and organizations in your area. These agencies can also provide support and guidance with the application.
| 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 |
Gather Necessary Information: Before you begin the application, make sure you have your PG&E account information, income details, and information about any public assistance programs you participate in.
Take Advantage of Energy Bill Savings
College is expensive, but help is available. If you are a student in California within PG&E service territory, exploring your eligibility for the CARE program is a smart move. By taking advantage of these energy bill discounts, you can make your budget more manageable and focus on your studies. Don’t hesitate to check the PG&E website or contact them directly to learn more and start your application today.
