Are you looking for ways to reduce your energy expenses in California? The California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) program is designed to help eligible low-income households save money on their electricity and natural gas bills. If you’re wondering, “How Do I Apply For The Care Program?”, this guide will provide you with the essential information and steps to get started.
Understanding the CARE Program and its Benefits
The CARE program offers significant discounts to help make energy more affordable. If you qualify, you could receive a 30-35 percent discount on your electric bill and a 20 percent discount on your natural gas bill. These savings can make a substantial difference in your monthly expenses, allowing you to allocate your budget to other essential needs.
Eligibility for CARE is primarily based on your household income. You may qualify if your total household income is at or below the income limits set for the program. Furthermore, enrollment in certain public assistance programs can also automatically qualify you for CARE, regardless of your specific income level. These qualifying programs include Medi-Cal, WIC, SNAP, and others designed to support low-income families and individuals.
To determine if you are eligible and to begin the application process, the first step is to identify your utility provider. California’s energy services are provided by various utility companies, and the CARE program is administered through them. Below is a table listing the major utility companies in California, along with their contact information and website links where you can find specific CARE program details and application forms.
| 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 |
For those wondering about income eligibility, the CARE program has specific income guidelines that are updated annually. These guidelines are based on household size to ensure that the program supports families of all sizes. The table below outlines the current income limits to determine if your household qualifies for the CARE program based on income.
| 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 be automatically eligible for CARE if you participate in certain public assistance programs. These programs are designed to support families and individuals with limited resources, and CARE eligibility is often extended to participants of these 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
Steps to Apply for the CARE Program
Applying for the CARE program is a straightforward process. Here are the general steps you can follow:
- Identify Your Utility Provider: Determine which utility company provides your electricity and/or natural gas service. This information is usually found on your energy bill. Refer to the table above for a list of California utilities.
- Visit the Utility Website or Contact Customer Service: Once you know your utility provider, visit their website (links provided in the table above) and navigate to the CARE program section. Alternatively, you can call their customer service line directly.
- Obtain an Application: You can typically download the CARE program application form directly from the utility website. Many websites also offer the option to apply online. If you prefer a paper application, you can request one through the mail or potentially pick one up at a local utility office or community assistance agency.
- Complete the Application: Fill out the application form accurately and completely. You will need to provide information about your household size, income, and potentially documentation to verify your eligibility, especially if you are qualifying based on income.
- Submit Your Application: Submit the completed application according to the instructions provided by your utility company. This may involve mailing it in, submitting it online, or dropping it off at a designated location.
After submitting your application, your utility company will review it to determine your eligibility. You will be notified of the outcome of your application, and if approved, the CARE discount will be applied to your future energy bills.
Explore Additional Assistance: The FERA Program
In addition to CARE, California also offers the Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) program. FERA provides a lower discount on electricity bills for households whose income slightly exceeds the CARE income limits. If you are not eligible for CARE due to income, you may still qualify for FERA. Contact your electric utility to inquire about the FERA program and its specific eligibility requirements.
By applying for the CARE program, you can take a significant step towards managing your energy costs and ensuring affordable access to essential utilities. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your utility provider today to learn more and begin your application process.
