Can CalFresh help with utility bills in 2025? Confused about benefit options

CalFresh doesn't directly help with utilities, but there are other programs you might be eligible for through the same county office. Look into LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program) - it provides one-time assistance with utility bills. There's also the California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) program which gives a 30-35% discount on PG&E bills. Since you're already receiving CalFresh, you likely qualify. You need to submit a separate application though - it's not automatic.

u can get help w/ utilitieees but its NOT thru calfresh. I got help last yr when my electric was gonna be shut off. check out LIHEAP!!! they gave me like $500 i think but its only 1 time per year help

The program you're probably thinking of is LIHEAP, but it's completely separate from CalFresh. They're both administered by county social services but require different applications. I recommend calling your county worker to ask about LIHEAP and also applying for CARE/FERA through PG&E directly. With CARE, you'll get an ongoing discount on your bill (around 30-35%), which is really helpful long-term. If you're getting CalFresh, you almost certainly qualify for these utility assistance programs too since they have similar income requirements.

LIHEAP is good but the waiting list can be super long depending on your county... took me like 4 months to get approved last time! You should definitely apply but also check if your local churches or community centers have emergency utility assistance funds. Sometimes they can help faster when you're in a bind!

I was in the EXACT same situation last month!!! I tried calling my county office for DAYS to ask about utility help and kept getting the stupid automated system. I finally used this service called Claimyr that got me through to a real person in like 20 minutes. They called the CalFresh office for me and then connected me when they got a real person. My worker told me about both LIHEAP and a special crisis assistance program that I qualified for since I had a disconnection notice. Worth checking out their video to see how it works: https://youtu.be/eZ19FHRETv8?si=_CXnXqNXbLl26WB8 or just go to claimyr.com

To summarize the options for the original poster: 1. LIHEAP - One-time assistance, can be substantial but often has waitlists 2. CARE/FERA - Ongoing 30-35% discount on your utility bill (apply directly through PG&E) 3. Local assistance programs - Check with community action agencies in your area 4. Weatherization Assistance Program - Free energy efficiency upgrades that lower your bills Since you're already receiving CalFresh, you likely qualify for all of these. I suggest applying for CARE immediately (it's a simple form) while you pursue LIHEAP for the immediate bill.

i think ppl r confusing u by mentioning welfare. calfresh IS welfare technically but its ONLY for food. the utility programs r totally different programs run by different departments even tho sometimes theyre in the same building. u need separate applications for each thing. its all so complicated for no reason 🙄

There's also the Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) program if your income is slightly higher than CARE limits. And don't forget to ask PG&E about their payment plans - they HAVE to offer you one if you're struggling. I work for a community organization that helps with these applications, and most people don't realize they qualify for multiple programs. The system is deliberately confusing to prevent people from accessing all the benefits they're entitled to.

Also wanted to mention that if you're in a real emergency situation (like about to get shut off), many counties have emergency assistance programs that can help within 24-48 hours. These are different from LIHEAP and usually have less paperwork. When you call your county office, specifically ask about "emergency utility assistance" or "crisis intervention" programs. They don't always volunteer this information but it exists! I had to use it once when my gas was going to be shut off in winter and they helped me the same day I applied.