California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE)
by California Public Utilities Commission
A monthly discount on electricity and/or natural gas for income-qualified customers of participating investor-owned utilities.
Potential bill savings
About 20–35% off qualifying utility charges
Per month
What you can get
About 20–35% off qualifying utility charges
CARE typically discounts electricity about 30–35% at large electric utilities and natural gas about 20%, plus a reduced base service charge on some tariffs. Income must be at or below 200% of the federal poverty level using the CPUC table effective June 1, 2026–May 31, 2027, or through listed public-assistance programs. This site does not convert that household-size table into one income number. Apply with your utility. LADWP and SMUD use separate municipal discounts, not CARE.
Overview
A monthly discount on electricity and/or natural gas for income-qualified customers of participating investor-owned utilities.
Who may qualify
- CARE, FERA, ESA, and Medical Baseline are offered by participating investor-owned utilities. Municipal utilities have separate discounts.
- Gas CARE or Medical Baseline may apply if you take gas service from a participating IOU.
Location / service area
Statewide in California
How to apply
Use the official application or program page. Confirm current instructions with the administrator before you apply.
Preapproval required
Important things to know
Last verified: Sep 6, 2026 · Confidence: High
Official sources
Related programs
Cannot be combined with
Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA)FERA cannot be combined with CARE on the same electric account.
Not sure what you qualify for?
Check your eligibility. We’ll compare your answers with published program rules.
Eligibility is based on published program information and the details you provide. Program rules, funding and availability can change. Always confirm eligibility with the official program administrator.