Millions of Californians struggle to afford essential utilities, especially electricity and natural gas. For those facing financial hardship, the California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) program offers crucial assistance. But what is the CARE Program exactly, and how can it help you manage your energy expenses? This guide will explain everything you need to know about CARE, from eligibility requirements to how to apply, ensuring you can access the support you deserve.
Understanding the California CARE Program
The CARE program is a state-wide initiative designed to help low-income households in California afford their energy bills. It provides significant discounts on both electricity and natural gas services, making energy more accessible and preventing vulnerable families from facing service disruptions or choosing between necessities.
What Benefits Does CARE Offer?
Enrolling in CARE can substantially lower your monthly utility costs. Participating customers receive:
- 30-35% discount on electric bills: This applies to major California electrical corporations.
- 20% discount on natural gas bills: This discount helps reduce the cost of heating and cooking.
These discounts are designed to ease the financial burden of energy expenses, allowing families to allocate their budgets to other essential needs like food, housing, and healthcare.
Who is Eligible for the CARE Program?
Eligibility for CARE is primarily based on household income. The program aims to support those who are most financially vulnerable. There are two main pathways to qualify for CARE:
Income-Based Eligibility
Your household income must be at or below specific limits to qualify for CARE. These income limits are updated annually to reflect changes in the cost of living. As of June 1, 2024, the income eligibility upper limits are:
| 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 guidelines are effective through May 31, 2025.
Public Assistance Program Enrollment
Even if your income slightly exceeds the limits, you may still be eligible for CARE if you are enrolled in certain public assistance programs. These programs indicate financial need and automatically qualify you for CARE. Qualifying 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
Enrollment in any of these programs simplifies the CARE application process and ensures that those already receiving public assistance can also benefit from reduced energy costs.
How to Apply for the CARE Program
Applying for the CARE program is a straightforward process. The easiest way to apply is to contact your utility company directly. They can provide you with application forms and detailed instructions. You can reach out to your utility provider through phone or their website:
| 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 |
In addition to contacting your utility, application forms are often available through various community-based organizations and agencies that assist low-income individuals and families.
Understanding the Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) Program
For families whose income slightly exceeds the CARE guidelines, California offers another helpful program: the Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) program. FERA provides an 18% discount on electricity bills for eligible households served by Pacific Gas and Electric Company, Southern California Edison, and San Diego Gas and Electric Company.
To qualify for FERA, your household income must fall within the FERA income limits, which are higher than the CARE limits. Contact your electric utility to determine if your family qualifies for the FERA program and to learn more about the application process.
Conclusion: снизить Your Energy Bills with CARE
The California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) program is a vital resource for low-income Californians seeking to manage their energy costs. By providing substantial discounts on electricity and natural gas bills, CARE helps ensure that essential energy services remain affordable and accessible. If you believe you may be eligible, don’t hesitate to contact your utility company or explore the resources mentioned to apply. Taking advantage of the CARE program can significantly improve your household’s financial well-being and provide peace of mind regarding your energy expenses.
