Are you a Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) customer in California looking for ways to lower your energy expenses? The PG&E CARE program, or California Alternate Rates for Energy program, is a state-mandated initiative designed to help income-qualified households manage their electricity and natural gas bills. This program provides significant discounts, making energy more affordable for those who need it most.
Understanding the PG&E CARE Program: A Financial Assistance Overview
The PG&E CARE program is a cornerstone of California’s commitment to ensuring affordable energy access for all residents. Specifically for PG&E customers, enrolling in CARE can lead to substantial savings. Participants in the CARE program receive a 30-35 percent discount on their electric bill and a 20 percent discount on their natural gas bill. These discounts can significantly ease the financial burden of monthly utility costs, allowing families and individuals to allocate their budgets to other essential needs.
This program isn’t just a handout; it’s a helping hand for those who meet specific income requirements or participate in certain public assistance programs. It’s funded through a small surcharge paid by other utility customers, demonstrating a collective effort to support vulnerable communities within California.
Eligibility Requirements for PG&E CARE: Do You Qualify?
To be eligible for the PG&E CARE program, your household must meet certain criteria, primarily based on income. As of June 1, 2024, the income limits are effective through May 31, 2025, and are structured 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 guidelines are updated periodically to reflect changes in the cost of living and inflation, ensuring the program remains accessible to those it intends to serve.
Beyond income limits, you can also qualify for PG&E CARE if you are currently 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’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 these programs automatically qualifies you for CARE, simplifying the application process for many eligible households.
How to Apply for PG&E CARE: Getting Started
Applying for the PG&E CARE program is a straightforward process. The most direct way to apply and get more detailed information is to contact PG&E directly. You can reach them through the following resources:
- Website: Visit the official PG&E website dedicated to the CARE program for online application and detailed information.
- Phone: Call PG&E’s dedicated line for assistance programs at 866-743-2273.
PG&E representatives can guide you through the application process, answer your questions, and provide any necessary forms. Applications are also often available through various community agencies and organizations that assist low-income individuals and families.
Beyond CARE: Exploring FERA
While CARE is designed for households with lower incomes, PG&E also offers another program called the Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) program. FERA is for families whose income slightly exceeds the CARE limits but still need assistance managing their electricity costs. FERA provides an 18% discount on electricity bills. If you suspect your household income might be too high for CARE but you are still struggling with energy bills, it’s worth exploring the FERA program with PG&E.
Take Control of Your Energy Bills with PG&E CARE
The PG&E CARE program is a valuable resource for eligible California residents to reduce their energy expenses. By understanding the program’s benefits, eligibility criteria, and application process, you can take proactive steps to make your energy bills more manageable. If you believe you qualify, don’t hesitate to reach out to PG&E today and start saving.
