FERA Eligibility Calculator
If your income is a bit too high for CARE, see whether your household of 3 or more qualifies for FERA's 18% electric discount instead.
FERA is for households of 3 or more whose income falls in a band just above the CARE limit — roughly $54,641-$68,300 for a household of 3, up to $111,441-$139,300 for a household of 8. Qualifying households get 18% off their electric bill (no gas discount) plus 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 has two hard requirements: your household must have 3 or more people, and your income must fall inside a specific band above the CARE ceiling for your household size — for example, $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 the more generous CARE program instead (this tool flags that). If your income is above the band, neither program applies on income alone. If you qualify, FERA gives you an 18% discount on your electric bill only — there's no gas discount under FERA — plus a reduced monthly Base Services Charge (about $12/mo instead of the standard rate).
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 of 3 or more with income just above the CARE limit. It gives an 18% discount on the electric bill only — there is no gas discount under FERA.
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?
No. FERA requires a minimum household size of 3. Smaller households with income above the CARE limit do not qualify for either program on income alone.
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 — actual approval depends on your utility's verification of the information you provide.