Millions of California households struggle to afford their utility bills. Fortunately, Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) offers the California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) program to help eligible low-income customers reduce their energy costs. This program provides significant discounts on both electricity and natural gas bills, making energy more affordable for those who qualify. If you’re looking for ways to lower your PG&E bill, understanding and applying for the CARE program is a crucial first step.
Understanding the PG&E CARE Program
The PG&E CARE program is designed to assist eligible customers by offering a discount of 30-35 percent on their electric bills and 20 percent on their natural gas bills. This discount can substantially lower your monthly expenses and make your energy bills more manageable. Funded through a surcharge paid by other utility customers, CARE ensures that those most in need receive crucial financial assistance to maintain essential utility services.
Eligibility for PG&E CARE
To qualify for the PG&E CARE program, you must meet certain income guidelines or participate in specific public assistance programs. Here’s a breakdown of the eligibility criteria:
Income Guidelines
Your household income must be at or below the following limits to be eligible for CARE. These income limits are effective through May 31, 2025.
| 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 |
Public Assistance Programs
You are also automatically 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 Program’s Free Lunch Program (NSLP)
- CalFresh/SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program)
- 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
How to Apply for PG&E CARE – Step-by-Step
Applying for the PG&E CARE program is a straightforward process. You can apply online, by phone, or by mail. Here’s a detailed guide for each method:
1. Online Application
Applying online is the quickest and easiest way to enroll in the CARE program.
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Visit the PG&E CARE Program Website: Go to the official PG&E website dedicated to the CARE program. You can easily find it by searching “PG&E CARE program” on any search engine or by directly navigating to PG&E’s CARE page.
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Find the Online Application: Look for a button or link that says “Apply Now” or “Enroll Online” for the CARE program.
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Create an Account or Log In: You may need to create a PG&E online account or log in to your existing account to access the application.
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Complete the Application Form: Fill out the online application form. You will need to provide information about your household size, income, and any participation in public assistance programs. Ensure all information is accurate and complete.
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Submit Required Documentation (if necessary): In some cases, you may need to upload documents to verify your income or enrollment in a qualifying public assistance program. Have digital copies of these documents ready if required.
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Submit Your Application: Review your application for accuracy and submit it electronically. You will typically receive a confirmation message or email upon successful submission.
2. Phone Application
If you prefer to apply over the phone, you can contact PG&E directly.
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Call PG&E: Dial PG&E’s dedicated CARE program phone number: 866-743-2273.
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Inform the Representative You Want to Apply for CARE: Clearly state that you are calling to apply for the California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) program.
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Answer Questions and Provide Information: A PG&E representative will guide you through the application process over the phone. Be prepared to provide details about your household income, size, and participation in any qualifying public assistance programs.
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Follow Instructions for Document Submission (if needed): The representative will inform you if you need to submit any documents to verify your eligibility and guide you on how to do so, possibly by mail or online upload.
3. Mail Application
Applying by mail is another option, especially if you prefer a paper application.
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Request an Application Form: You can download a CARE program application form from the PG&E website or request one to be mailed to you by calling PG&E at 866-743-2273.
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Download and Print (if available online): Visit the PG&E CARE program website and look for a downloadable application form in PDF format. Print the form.
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Complete the Application Form: Fill out all sections of the paper application form accurately and legibly.
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Gather Required Documents: Collect any necessary documents to verify your income or enrollment in a public assistance program, as indicated on the application form.
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Mail Your Application: Send the completed application form and copies of your documents to the address specified on the form. Ensure you use the correct mailing address to avoid delays.
4. In-Person Assistance
For those who need help with the application process, numerous community agencies and organizations offer in-person assistance.
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Find Local Assistance Agencies: Contact PG&E or check their website for a list of community agencies and organizations in your area that can assist with CARE applications.
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Visit an Agency: Visit a local agency during their operating hours. They can provide application forms, help you fill them out, and answer any questions you may have.
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Submit Your Application Through the Agency: Some agencies may even help you submit your application to PG&E directly.
Required Documents
Depending on your situation, you may need to provide documentation to verify your eligibility. This might include:
- Proof of Income: Pay stubs, tax returns, or other income verification documents.
- Proof of Enrollment in Public Assistance Programs: Documents showing your participation in programs like Medi-Cal, CalFresh, SSI, etc.
Check the application form or PG&E website for a detailed list of acceptable documents.
FERA Program: An Alternative if You Don’t Qualify for CARE
If your household income slightly exceeds the CARE program limits, you might be eligible for the Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) program. FERA offers an 18% discount on your electricity bill. It’s available to customers of PG&E, Southern California Edison, and San Diego Gas and Electric. Contact PG&E to inquire about FERA if you think you might qualify but are not eligible for CARE.
Contact PG&E for CARE Program Assistance
If you have any questions or need further assistance with your CARE program application, don’t hesitate to contact PG&E.
- Phone: 866-743-2273
- Website: PG&E CARE Program Page
Applying for the PG&E CARE program can significantly reduce your energy bills and provide much-needed financial relief. Take advantage of this valuable program if you are eligible. By following these steps, you can navigate the application process smoothly and start saving on your energy costs.
