FERA Eligibility Calculator
If your income is a bit too high for CARE, see whether your household qualifies for FERA's 18% electric discount instead.
FERA is for households whose income is above the CARE limit but within a set band: $43,281-$54,100 for 1 or 2 people, $54,641-$68,300 for a household of 3, and up to $111,441-$139,300 for a household of 8. Qualifying households get 18% off their electric bill (no gas discount) and a reduced Base Services Charge.
Enter your household size and income below. This tool uses the CARE/FERA income guidelines effective June 1, 2026 through May 31, 2027.
FERA Eligibility Calculator
Your FERA Eligibility Result
How this is calculated
FERA's test is your income. It must fall within a band above the CARE ceiling for your household size: for example, $43,281 to $54,100 for 1 or 2 people, $54,641 to $68,300 for a household of 3, or $66,001 to $82,500 for a household of 4.
If your income is below that band, you likely qualify for CARE, which gives a larger discount, and this tool will tell you so. If your income is above the band, neither program applies on income alone. If you qualify, FERA takes 18% off your electric bill only, with no gas discount, and lowers your monthly Base Services Charge to about $12.
FERA and CARE share one combined application, so you only need to apply once and your utility will place you in the correct program.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is FERA in California?
FERA (Family Electric Rate Assistance) is a utility discount program for households with income a little above the CARE limit. It takes 18% off the electric bill only. FERA has no gas discount.
What is the income range for FERA in 2026?
For June 1, 2026 through May 31, 2027, for a household of 3: $54,641-$68,300. For a household of 4: $66,001-$82,500. The range rises with household size, adding roughly $11,360-$14,200 per additional person above 8.
Can a household of 1 or 2 qualify for FERA?
Yes, since June 1, 2025. SB 1130 removed the old rule that FERA households needed 3 or more people. For June 1, 2026 through May 31, 2027, a household of 1 or 2 qualifies with income of $43,281 to $54,100.
Does FERA cover natural gas bills?
No. FERA is an electric-only discount. CARE, by contrast, discounts both electric and gas. If your income qualifies for CARE instead, CARE is the better program since it covers more of your bill.
How do I apply for FERA?
FERA shares one combined application with CARE. Apply through your electric utility (PG&E, SCE, SDG&E, or your municipal utility) online, by phone, or by mail.
This tool provides an educational estimate only and is not affiliated with the CPUC or any utility. Confirm your eligibility and enroll through your utility's official CARE/FERA program page. Approval depends on your utility verifying the information you provide.