California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE)
California Public Utilities Commission
About 20–35% off qualifying utility charges
A monthly discount on electricity and/or natural gas for income-qualified customers of participating investor-owned utilities.
What you could receive
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.
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
Important requirements
Purchase timing requirement is unclear. Confirm with the program administrator.
Timing / preapproval
Preapproval required
Effective dates: Jun 1, 2026 – May 31, 2027
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.
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.