The rising cost of living can make essential services like energy increasingly difficult to afford. For eligible, low-income households in San Diego and southern Orange counties, San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E) offers a vital lifeline: the California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) program. This program provides significant discounts on your monthly energy bills, helping to ease financial burdens and ensure access to essential utilities. But exactly, and how can you benefit from it? Let’s delve into the details.
Understanding the SDG&E CARE Program
The SDG&E CARE program is a state-mandated initiative designed to assist income-qualified households with their energy expenses. It works by providing a substantial discount on both electricity and natural gas bills. Customers enrolled in the CARE program receive a 30-35% discount on their electric bill and a 20% discount on their natural gas bill. These discounts can make a significant difference in your monthly budget, freeing up funds for other essential needs.
This program is funded through a surcharge paid by other utility customers, ensuring that those who need assistance receive it. The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) oversees these programs and sets income guidelines to determine eligibility, ensuring the program reaches those who need it most.
Who is Eligible for SDG&E CARE?
Eligibility for the SDG&E CARE program is primarily based on household income. The program utilizes income limits that are updated annually to reflect changes in the cost of living. As of June 1, 2024, the income eligibility upper 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.
Beyond income, you may also automatically 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 Program’s Free Lunch Program (NSL)
- CalFresh/SNAP (Food Stamps)
- 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 demonstrates income need and can streamline your CARE application process.
Benefits of Enrolling in SDG&E CARE
The most direct benefit of the SDG&E CARE program is the significant discount on your energy bills. This reduced cost can lead to substantial savings throughout the year, making it easier to manage your household budget. Beyond the financial relief, CARE ensures that low-income families maintain access to essential energy services, contributing to overall well-being and quality of life. By reducing the energy burden, CARE helps families avoid difficult choices between paying for utilities and other necessities like food, healthcare, or housing.
How to Apply for SDG&E CARE Program
Applying for the SDG&E CARE program is a straightforward process. The easiest way to apply is online through the SDG&E website. You can visit the SDG&E CARE program page to access the online application.
Alternatively, you can request an application form by contacting SDG&E directly. Their customer service line dedicated to assistance programs can be reached at 800-411-7343. They can provide you with the application form and answer any questions you may have about the program or application process. Application forms are also often available through community agencies and organizations that assist low-income individuals and families.
Exploring FERA: An Additional Assistance Option
For families whose income slightly exceeds the CARE income limits, there is another program to consider: the Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) program. FERA provides an 18% discount on electricity bills for eligible customers of SDG&E, Southern California Edison, and Pacific Gas and Electric Company. While less substantial than the CARE discount, FERA can still offer valuable savings for families who are just above the CARE income threshold. Contact SDG&E to inquire about FERA eligibility and application if you believe your income may be too high for CARE but still need assistance.
Conclusion
Understanding what is SDG&E CARE program and its benefits is the first step towards accessing much-needed energy bill assistance. If you are a low-income resident in the SDG&E service area, exploring your eligibility for the CARE program is highly recommended. The program offers significant discounts that can make a real difference in your financial stability and ensure you have access to reliable energy services. Don’t hesitate to contact SDG&E or visit their website to learn more and begin your application today.
