The California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) program is designed to help eligible low-income customers in California afford their energy bills. San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E) is one of the utility companies participating in this statewide initiative. If you are an SDG&E customer and are finding it difficult to manage your energy expenses, understanding the requirements for the CARE program can be the first step towards significant savings. This article will detail the eligibility criteria and application process for the SDG&E CARE program, ensuring you have all the necessary information to determine if you qualify and how to apply.
Income Requirements for SDG&E CARE Program Eligibility
One of the primary requirements for the SDG&E CARE program is based on household income. The program sets specific income limits that vary depending on the size of your household. These limits are updated annually to reflect changes in the cost of living. To be eligible for CARE with SDG&E, your total gross household income must be at or below the following thresholds, which 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 |
It’s important to note that these income guidelines are re-evaluated and may change after May 31, 2025. Always check the latest income limits on the SDG&E website or by contacting them directly to ensure you have the most current information.
Eligibility Through Public Assistance Programs
Even if your income slightly exceeds the limits mentioned above, you may still qualify for the SDG&E CARE program if you are currently enrolled in certain public assistance programs. Participation in these programs automatically qualifies you for CARE, regardless of your gross household income. The qualifying public assistance programs include:
- 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
Enrolling in any of these programs demonstrates a need for assistance and streamlines your eligibility for the SDG&E CARE program.
How to Apply for the SDG&E CARE Program
To apply for the SDG&E CARE program, you will need to contact SDG&E directly. The easiest way to start the application process is by visiting the SDG&E website dedicated to payment and bill assistance programs. You can find the CARE application and further details at SDG&E CARE Program.
Alternatively, you can contact SDG&E’s customer service directly to request an application form or to ask any questions you may have about the program and your eligibility. Their dedicated phone number for assistance programs is 800-411-7343.
SDG&E, like other major California utility companies, offers a significant discount to CARE participants. Eligible customers receive a discount of 30-35% on their electric bills and a 20% discount on their natural gas bills. These savings can substantially reduce your monthly energy expenses, making it easier to manage your household budget.
Additional Assistance: The FERA Program
For families whose income slightly surpasses the CARE income limits, there is another program called the Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) program. FERA provides a lower discount of 18% on electricity bills and is available to customers of SDG&E, along with PG&E and Southern California Edison. If you believe your income is just above the CARE limits, it is worth exploring the FERA program as an alternative source of assistance. Contact SDG&E for more information on FERA and to determine if you qualify.
Conclusion
The SDG&E CARE program is a valuable resource for low-income households in San Diego and Southern California to manage their energy costs. By meeting either the income requirements or participating in a qualifying public assistance program, you can access significant discounts on your monthly utility bills. Take the first step towards energy savings by checking your eligibility and contacting SDG&E today to apply for the CARE program. Don’t hesitate to reach out to SDG&E directly through their website or phone number for personalized assistance and to begin your application process.
