Are you a Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) customer in California struggling with your energy bills? You might be eligible for the California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) program, which offers significant discounts to help low-income households manage their electricity and natural gas costs. This program can lower your monthly expenses, providing much-needed financial relief. Here’s how to determine if you qualify and how to sign up for the PG&E CARE program.
Understanding the PG&E CARE Program
The PG&E CARE program is designed to assist eligible customers by providing a discount of 30-35 percent on their electric bills and 20 percent on their natural gas bills. This discount can make a substantial difference in your monthly budget, allowing you to allocate funds to other essential needs. The CARE program is funded through a surcharge paid by other utility customers, ensuring support for those who need it most.
Checking Your Eligibility for PG&E CARE
Eligibility for the CARE program is primarily based on your household income. 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 limits are effective through May 31, 2025, and may be adjusted annually based on inflation.
Beyond income, you may also qualify for CARE if you are 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 you meet either the income guidelines or are enrolled in one of these qualifying programs, you are likely eligible for the PG&E CARE program.
Steps to Sign Up for the PG&E CARE Program
Applying for the PG&E CARE program is a straightforward process. Here are the primary methods to sign up:
-
Online Application: The easiest and quickest way to apply is through the PG&E website.
- Visit the PG&E CARE program website.
- Look for the “Apply Now” or “Enroll Now” button, usually prominently displayed on the CARE program page.
- You will be guided through an online application form where you will need to provide information about your household size, income, and potentially your enrollment in qualifying public assistance programs.
-
Phone Application: You can also apply by phone.
- Call PG&E’s dedicated CARE program line at 866-743-2273.
- A PG&E representative will assist you with 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 the PG&E CARE program phone number mentioned above (866-743-2273) and request a CARE program application form to be mailed to your address.
- Alternatively, you may be able to download and print the application form directly from the PG&E CARE website and mail it in. Check the website for downloadable forms.
- Once you receive or print the form, fill it out completely and mail it to the address provided on the form.
-
Community Agencies: Application assistance may also be available through numerous community agencies in California. These agencies can provide guidance and support throughout the application process. Contact your local community resource center to inquire about CARE program application assistance.
After You Apply for PG&E CARE
Once you have submitted your application, PG&E will review it to verify your eligibility. The processing time can vary, but it is usually completed within a few weeks. You will be notified of the status of your application, whether approved or if further information is needed. If approved, you will typically see the CARE discount reflected on your PG&E bill within one to two billing cycles.
Taking advantage of the PG&E CARE program is a smart way for eligible low-income customers to reduce their energy expenses. By following these steps, you can easily apply and start saving on your monthly PG&E bills. Don’t hesitate to reach out to PG&E or visit their website for more information and to begin your application today.
