Understanding the PG&E CARE Program
The PG&E CARE program is a state-mandated initiative that provides significant discounts on energy bills for qualifying low-income customers. Enrolling in CARE can reduce your electricity bill by 30-35 percent and your natural gas bill by 20 percent. These discounts can make a substantial difference in managing your household budget and ensuring access to essential energy services. The program is funded through a surcharge paid by other utility customers, ensuring its sustainability and commitment to assisting those in need.
Checking Your Eligibility for PG&E CARE
Eligibility for the PG&E CARE program is primarily based on your household income and the number of people living in your home. As of June 1, 2024, the income limits are as follows:
| Household Size | Income Eligibility Upper Limit |
|---|---|
| 1-2 | $40,880 |
| 3 | $51,640 |
| 4 | $62,400 |
| 5 | $73,160 |
| 6 | $83,920 |
| 7 | $94,680 |
| 8 | $105,440 |
| Each Additional Person | $10,760 |
These income guidelines are updated annually and are effective through May 31, 2025. If your household income falls at or below these limits, you are likely eligible for the CARE program.
Beyond income, you may also qualify for CARE if you are currently enrolled in certain public assistance programs. These programs include:
- Medicaid/Medi-Cal
- Women, Infants and Children Program (WIC)
- Healthy Families A & B
- National School Lunch’s Free Lunch Program (NSL)
- CalFresh/SNAP (Food Stamps)
- 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 participate in any of these programs, you automatically meet the eligibility criteria for CARE, regardless of your specific income level.
How to Sign Up for the PG&E CARE Program: A Step-by-Step Guide
Signing up for the PG&E CARE program is a straightforward process. You can apply through several convenient methods:
-
Online Application: The easiest and fastest way to apply is through the PG&E website.
- Visit the PG&E CARE program website: https://www.pge.com/en_US/residential/save-energy-money/help-paying-your-bill/longer-term-assistance/care/care.page
- Click on the “Apply Now” or similar button to access the online application form.
- Carefully fill out all required fields in the application, providing accurate information about your household size, income, and any public assistance programs you participate in.
- Submit the online application.
-
Phone Application: You can also apply for CARE by phone.
- Call PG&E’s dedicated CARE program line at 866-743-2273.
- A PG&E representative will guide you through the application process over the phone and answer any questions you may have.
-
Mail Application: If you prefer to apply by mail, you can request an application form to be sent to you.
- Call PG&E at 866-743-2273 to request a CARE program application form.
- Alternatively, you may be able to download and print the application form from the PG&E website and mail it in.
- Once you receive the form, fill it out completely and accurately.
- Mail the completed application form to the address provided on the form or on the PG&E website.
Information and Documents You May Need
While filling out the application, be prepared to provide the following information:
- Your PG&E account number.
- The names and birthdates of all household members.
- Your household’s total gross annual income.
- Information about any public assistance programs you participate in, if applicable (e.g., program name, case number).
You may be asked to provide documentation to verify your income or enrollment in public assistance programs. Acceptable documentation can include:
- Pay stubs
- Tax returns
- Benefit award letters from public assistance programs
Ensure you have these documents readily available in case they are requested during the application process.
What Happens After You Apply?
After submitting your CARE program application, PG&E will review it to determine your eligibility. The processing time can vary, but you can typically expect to hear back from PG&E within a few weeks. If your application is approved, you will start receiving the CARE discount on your PG&E bills in subsequent billing cycles. PG&E will notify you of the approval and the date the discount will begin.
Explore Other Assistance Programs
In addition to CARE, PG&E and the State of California offer other assistance programs to help customers manage their energy costs. One such program is the Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) program. FERA provides a lower discount (18% on electricity bills) to households with slightly higher incomes than the CARE income limits. If you don’t qualify for CARE, it’s worth checking if you are eligible for FERA. Contact PG&E or visit their website to learn more about FERA and other available programs.
Contact PG&E for CARE Program Assistance
If you have any questions about the PG&E CARE program or need assistance with the application process, you can contact PG&E directly:
- Phone: 866-743-2273
- Website: https://www.pge.com/en_US/residential/save-energy-money/help-paying-your-bill/longer-term-assistance/care/care.page
Taking advantage of the PG&E CARE program can significantly reduce your energy expenses and provide much-needed financial relief. Don’t hesitate to apply today and see if you qualify for these valuable savings.
