The California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) program offers substantial discounts on energy bills to eligible low-income households. If you’re struggling to afford your electricity and natural gas costs, CARE could provide significant relief. This program is designed to help make energy more affordable for those who need it most, ensuring access to essential utilities without financial strain.
Understanding the CARE Program and Its Benefits
CARE provides a discount of 30-35 percent on electric bills and 20 percent on natural gas bills. These discounts can significantly lower your monthly expenses, freeing up your budget for other necessities. The program is available to customers of major California utility companies, making it a widespread resource for those who qualify.
To find out if you’re eligible and to apply, you should contact your specific utility provider. Each utility has dedicated resources and application processes for the CARE program. Below is a helpful table listing utility companies along with their contact information and website links to the CARE program pages:
Income-Based Eligibility for CARE
One of the primary ways to qualify for CARE is based on your household income. The program has established income limits that are updated annually to reflect changes in the cost of living. If your total household income falls at or below the thresholds outlined below, you are likely eligible for the CARE discount.
The following income guidelines are effective through May 31, 2025:
These income limits are based on household size, ensuring that larger families with greater needs can also qualify. It’s important to note that these figures are reviewed and may be adjusted each year to keep pace with inflation and economic changes.
Program-Based Eligibility for CARE
Even if your income slightly exceeds the standard limits, you may still qualify for CARE through program-based eligibility. If you or someone in your household is enrolled in certain public assistance programs, you automatically meet the CARE eligibility criteria. These 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 demonstrates a need for financial assistance and automatically qualifies you for the CARE energy discount.
How to Apply for the CARE Program
Applying for the CARE program is straightforward. The first step is to contact your utility company. You can reach them by phone or visit their website, using the information provided in the table above. They will provide you with the necessary application forms and guide you through the process.
Applications are also often available through community agencies and organizations that assist low-income individuals and families. These agencies can provide support and help you complete the application process.
Additional Assistance: The FERA Program
For families whose income slightly exceeds the CARE program limits, there is an additional program called the Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) program. FERA offers an 18% discount on electricity bills for eligible households. FERA has higher income thresholds than CARE, making it an option for those who don’t quite qualify for CARE but still need assistance with their energy costs.
Contact your electric utility to inquire about the FERA program and to see if your household income qualifies.
Conclusion
The CARE program is a vital resource for low-income California residents, providing essential discounts on energy bills. By checking the income guidelines or program-based eligibility, you can determine if you qualify for these significant savings. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your utility company to learn more and apply. Lowering your energy bills through the CARE program can make a real difference in your household budget and financial well-being.
