Our first recommendation is to google your utility company's name + "assistance programs" as every company will offer some type of support. Googling this will allow you to go straight to that particular page to learn more about what exists for that company. In addition to this particular assistance, LIHEAP (described below), can also be an additional resource.

At a federal level, there is the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) that helps "to reduce the costs associated with home energy bills, energy crises, weatherization, and minor energy-related home repairs." You can learn more about LIHEAP here as well as seeing about your eligibility by state.

The following are examples of utility assistance programs available in California that can be used in addition to LIHEAP on energy bills for income-qualified households.

California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE):CARE offers around a 30% monthly bill discount. Qualification is based on participation in certain public assistance programs or by income guidelines.

Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA): If you're not eligible for CARE, you may qualify for an 18% monthly electric bill discount through FERA. FERA is only open to households with three or more people. Qualification is based on income guidelines.

To request an application form and more information, please contact your utility company or check out their websites for more information. Here are some of the major Californian utility company's CARE/FERA information:San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E), Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E), and Southern California Edison