Do You Qualify for Up to 35% Electricity Discount in California?

Some California households can significantly reduce their energy expenses. This is possible through assistance programs for low-income customers. Requirements depend on household size and annual income.

What is the CARE program and how much discount does it offer?

The California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) program is overseen by the CPUC. It offers a reduction of between 30% and 35% on electricity bills.

In the case of natural gas, the discount is 20%. However, the exact percentage for electricity depends on the size of the utility provider.

Utilities with at least 100,000 customer accounts must offer between 30% and 35% discount. Smaller companies, on the other hand, offer a 20% reduction.

What are the income limits to qualify for CARE?

Current limits apply from June 1, 2026 to May 31, 2027. These vary based on the number of household members.

Household Members	Annual Income Limit
1 or 2 people	$43,280
3 people	$54,640
4 people	$66,000
5 people	$77,360
6 people	$88,720
7 people	$100,080
8 people	$111,440

For each additional household member, $11,360 is added to the corresponding limit. Furthermore, these amounts can be updated annually based on inflation.

Can I qualify without meeting the income limit?

Yes, income is not the only way to access the CARE program. You can also qualify by participating in certain public assistance programs.

These include Medicaid/Medi-Cal, WIC, Healthy Families A and B, and the National School Lunch Program. SNAP, LIHEAP, and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) also apply.

Additionally, those receiving Head Start in tribal communities or Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance qualify. This also includes beneficiaries of TANF or Tribal TANF.

What is the FERA program and who qualifies?

The Family Electric Rate Assistance Program (FERA) is an alternative for somewhat higher incomes. It offers an 18% discount on electricity bills.

This program is available to customers of PG&E, Southern California Edison, and San Diego Gas & Electric.

Household Members	Annual Income Range (FERA)
4 people	$66,001 to $82,500
5 people	$77,361 to $96,700
6 people	$88,721 to $110,900
8 people	Up to $139,300

Therefore, FERA serves as a bridge for households that slightly exceed the CARE limit.

What other discounts do these programs include?

In addition to regular reductions, both programs offer discounts on the monthly Base Services charge.