Are you struggling to keep up with your energy bills in California? The California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) program is designed to help eligible low-income households reduce their energy expenses. By enrolling in CARE, you could receive a significant discount on your electricity and natural gas bills, making your energy costs more manageable. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about how to apply for the CARE program and start saving.
The CARE program offers a 30-35% discount on electric bills and a 20% discount on natural gas bills for those who qualify. This substantial saving can make a real difference in your monthly budget. Let’s explore the eligibility criteria and the application process to see if you can benefit from this valuable program.
Understanding the California CARE Program
The CARE program is a state-sponsored initiative committed to assisting low-income Californians manage their energy costs. It’s funded by a surcharge on all other utility customers, ensuring support for those who need it most. The program aims to make energy more affordable, ensuring essential services remain accessible to everyone.
Checking Your Eligibility for the CARE Program
Before you begin the application process, it’s important to determine if you meet the eligibility requirements for the CARE program. Eligibility is primarily based on two key factors: household income and enrollment in certain public assistance programs.
Income Guidelines for CARE
Your total household income must be at or below the specified income limits to qualify for CARE. These income limits are updated annually to reflect changes in inflation and the cost of living. As of June 1, 2024, the income limits are effective through May 31, 2025, and 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 |
If your household income falls within these limits, you are likely eligible for the CARE program based on income.
Eligibility Through Public Assistance Programs
Even if your income slightly exceeds the guidelines, you may still be eligible for CARE if you are enrolled in any of the following public assistance programs:
- 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
Enrollment in any of these programs automatically qualifies you for the CARE program, regardless of your specific income level (as long as it aligns with the requirements of the qualifying public assistance program).
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for the CARE Program
Applying for the CARE program is a straightforward process. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the application:
Step 1: Gather Necessary Information
Before you begin your application, collect the following information:
- Household Size: Know the exact number of people living in your household.
- Income Information: Have documentation ready to verify your household income, such as pay stubs, tax returns, or benefit statements.
- Utility Account Information: Locate your most recent energy bill. You will need your utility account number.
- Public Assistance Program Enrollment (if applicable): If you are applying based on enrollment in a public assistance program, have proof of enrollment ready, such as a benefit award letter or card.
Step 2: Contact Your Utility Provider
The next step in how to apply for the CARE program is to contact your utility company directly. Each utility company in California manages its own CARE applications. You can contact them by phone or visit their website. Here’s a list of major California utility companies and their contact information for CARE program inquiries:
| 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 |
Step 3: Complete the Application Form
You can typically apply for CARE in one of two ways:
- Online Application: Most utility companies offer online CARE application forms through their websites. This is often the quickest and most convenient method. Visit the website of your utility provider (links provided in the table above) and look for the CARE program section to find the online application.
- Paper Application: If you prefer to apply by mail, you can request a paper application form from your utility company. Contact them by phone or check their website for instructions on how to download or request a form to be mailed to you.
The application form will ask for information about your household size, income, and utility account details. If you are applying based on enrollment in a public assistance program, you will need to provide details about that program as well.
Step 4: Submit Your Application
Once you have completed the application form, submit it to your utility company.
- Online Submissions: If you applied online, simply submit the form electronically through the website.
- Mail Submissions: If you are using a paper application, mail the completed form to the address provided by your utility company. Ensure you use the correct postage and consider sending it via certified mail for tracking purposes.
Step 5: Follow Up and Confirmation
After submitting your application, it may take some time for your utility company to process it. You can typically expect to hear back within a few weeks.
- Confirmation: Once your application is approved, you will receive confirmation from your utility company, often in writing. This confirmation will detail when your CARE discount will begin to be applied to your bills.
- Follow Up: If you haven’t heard back after a few weeks, don’t hesitate to contact your utility company to check on the status of your application. Have your application reference number or account details ready when you call.
Tips for a Smooth CARE Application Process
- Accuracy is Key: Ensure all information you provide on your application is accurate and truthful. Incorrect information can delay or disqualify your application.
- Gather Documents in Advance: Having all necessary documents ready before you start the application process will make it much smoother and faster.
- Keep Records: Keep copies of your application form and any supporting documents you submit for your records.
- Contact for Help: If you have any questions or need assistance with your application, don’t hesitate to contact your utility company directly. They are there to help you through the process.
Explore Additional Assistance: The FERA Program
If your household income slightly exceeds the CARE program limits, you might still be eligible for assistance through the Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) program. FERA offers an 18% discount on your electricity bill. It’s available to customers of Southern California Edison, San Diego Gas and Electric Company, and Pacific Gas and Electric Company.
Here are the income limits for the FERA program, effective through May 31, 2025:
| 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 income falls within the FERA guidelines, contact your electric utility to inquire about how to apply for the FERA program alongside or instead of CARE.
Conclusion: Take Action and Apply for CARE Today
The California CARE program is a vital resource for low-income households seeking to reduce their energy bills. By understanding the eligibility requirements and following this step-by-step guide on how to apply for the CARE program, you can take control of your energy costs and access significant savings. Don’t wait – contact your utility provider today and start your application process. Affordable energy is within reach!
