The California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) program is a fantastic initiative designed to help low-income households manage their energy bills. If you’re a Southern California Edison (Edison) customer, understanding how to apply for the CARE program can unlock significant savings on your monthly electricity and natural gas expenses. This guide will walk you through the process of applying for the Edison CARE program, ensuring you have all the information you need to take advantage of this valuable assistance.
Understanding the Edison CARE Program
Edison provides a discount of 30-35 percent on electric bills and a 20 percent discount on natural gas bills for customers enrolled in the CARE program. This substantial reduction can make a real difference in your household budget. The CARE program is funded through a surcharge paid by other utility customers, demonstrating a community effort to support those who need it most.
Checking Your Eligibility for Edison CARE
Eligibility for the CARE program is primarily based on your household income and size. These income limits are updated annually to reflect changes in 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 |
Beyond income, you may also qualify for CARE if you or someone in your household is 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)
- 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 your household income falls at or below the income limits, or if you participate in any of the listed public assistance programs, you are likely eligible for the Edison CARE program.
Step-by-Step Guide to Apply for Edison CARE
Applying for the Edison CARE program is a straightforward process. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through it:
Step 1: Gather Necessary Information
Before you start your application, collect the following information:
- Household Size: Know how many people live in your household.
- Household Income: Have an estimate of your household’s total gross annual income.
- Edison Account Information: You’ll need your Edison account number, which can be found on your bill.
- Program Enrollment Verification (if applicable): If you are applying based on enrollment in a public assistance program, have proof of enrollment ready. This could be a program award letter or identification card.
Step 2: Access the Application Form
You can apply for the Edison CARE program online or by mail.
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Online Application: The quickest and easiest way to apply is through the Edison website. Visit the Edison CARE Program website. The website provides detailed information about the program and a link to the online application form.
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Mail Application: If you prefer to apply by mail, you can download the application form from the Edison website or request one by calling Edison directly at 866-675-6623. Once you have the form, fill it out completely and accurately.
Step 3: Complete and Submit Your Application
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Online Application: Follow the instructions on the online form, filling in all required fields. You may need to upload documents verifying your income or program enrollment. Double-check all information before submitting electronically.
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Mail Application: Carefully complete the paper application form. Make sure to sign and date the application. Mail the completed application to the address provided on the form. It’s recommended to keep a copy of the application for your records.
Step 4: Await Application Processing and Confirmation
After submitting your application, Edison will review it to determine your eligibility. The processing time can vary. You can typically expect to hear back from Edison within a few weeks. You may be contacted if additional information is needed.
Once your application is approved, you will receive confirmation from Edison, and the CARE discount will be applied to your future bills. You will usually see the discount reflected on your bill within one to two billing cycles.
Contacting Edison for Assistance
If you have any questions or need help with your application, Edison provides excellent customer support. You can contact them through the following methods:
- Phone: Call Edison’s dedicated CARE program line at 866-675-6623.
- Website: Visit the Edison CARE Program website for more information and FAQs.
Don’t hesitate to reach out to Edison for assistance. They are there to help you understand the program and complete your application successfully.
Conclusion
The Edison CARE program is a valuable resource for low-income customers in California, offering significant discounts on energy bills. By following these steps and gathering the necessary information, you can easily apply for the program and start saving money on your Edison bills. Take advantage of this opportunity to reduce your energy costs and ease your financial burden.
