PG&E Here to Help Federal Workers During Government Shutdown

The federal government shutdown that began Oct. 1 is impacting workers across the nation.

PG&E is taking steps to support customers facing financial challenges.

PG&E has made some policy changes to better support impacted customers. All customers can sign up for a 24-month payment plan and those impacted by the shutdown are included in PG&E’s hardship requirements. PG&E customer service can be more flexible with those accounts. That’s regardless of the company’s usual credit policies.

Also, PG&E does not charge late fees or interest on past-due accounts.

Bill payment programs

• PG&E’s Relief for Energy Assistance Through Community Help (REACH) program may provide up to a $300 bill credit to help prevent service disconnection. This is for customers with past due balances.
• PG&E’s Match My Payment program also provides bill assistance for customers with past-due balances. It’s for those with past-due balances of at least $100. Customers who qualify can enroll to match every dollar they pay up to $1,000 toward past due balances.

Discounts for qualifying customers

Several programs offer help lowering monthly bills for income-eligible customers.

• The California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) Program can save customers 20% or more on their gas bill and an average of 38% on electricity.
• The Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) Program offers an 18% discount on electricity for qualifying households, no matter family size.
• The Energy Savings Assistance (ESA) Program offers free home energy upgrades—income guidelines apply.

PG&E support for food banks

The federal shutdown also is delaying CalFresh (SNAP) benefits beginning Nov. 1.

According to the California Association of Food Banks, that will force over 5.5 million food-insecure Californians to turn to alternative sources like food banks.

PG&E has long partnered with and continues to support food banks in its service area. In September, the PG&E Corporation Foundation announced a $1.12 million donation to local food banks, tribal food banks and senior meal programs.

This charitable contribution will provide the equivalent of almost 3.13 million meals for those in need. The funding supports more than 50 food distribution organizations in 46 counties in PG&E’s service area.

Opportunity to help a family member, friend or neighbor

PG&E offers an option for people to help others with their bill. Payments can be of any amount and applied to a specific customer account. To access and download the energy gift payment form click here.