Saving Money on Your Utility Costs

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Opening your water, electricity, gas, or internet bill can be stressful, especially during months when your usage and cost go up. Whether the bills come directly in your name, are included in your monthly rent, or are in someone else’s account, there are programs and strategies that may help lower the cost or even cover certain services for free. ‍
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Step 1: Check Your Bill and Look for Discounts

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Start by looking closely at your bill. See if you’re already enrolled in a discount program or if you may qualify. These can make a big difference right away:

CARE (California Alternate Rates for Energy): 30–35% discount on gas and electric bills for qualifying households.
FERA (Family Electric Rate Assistance): Discount for larger households just above CARE limits.
Emergency Relief: Some utility companies offer one-time emergency relief or special payment plans if you’re behind.
California Lifeline Program: Discounted home or mobile phone and internet services.
Internet and device resources:
- If you are a student or have a student in the household, check resources from your local school, school district, nonprofit organizations, or private companies that may provide free or discounted internet access or devices. For instance, many public libraries loan out free hotspots or laptops. Or, for instance, T-Mobile Project 10 Million offers free internet and hotspots to eligible students.
- Community “Buy Nothing” groups may also be a way to request devices.
- Visit our How to Access Low-Cost Internet page or text INTERNET to 211-211 for options.

If the bill isn’t in your name, consider having a conversation with the person whose name is on the account. Sometimes it can be easier for one household member to qualify for assistance programs or provide the needed verification. In some cases, it may make sense to switch the account to that person’s name so the household can access the available support.

Don’t give up if you’re unsure about eligibility or worried about immigration status. Programs often allow multiple ways to verify income, such as through free or reduced-price lunch eligibility for students. We suggest taking time to learn what the requirements are, and then decide whether applying makes sense for you and your household.

You can find program details and application links for major California utility providers at the California Public Utilities Commision (CPUC) website.‍

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Step 2: See If You Qualify for Free Energy Saving Upgrades‍

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If your appliances or the place where you live—whether it is a house, apartment, or another type of housing—uses a lot of energy, you may qualify for no-cost replacements or repairs that lower bills over time.

Energy Savings Assistance (ESA) Program: Free services like attic insulation, weatherstripping, caulking, and replacement of old refrigerators, furnaces, or water heaters with energy-efficient models.
Solar and Clean Energy Incentives: Programs such as SOMAH (for affordable housing) or DAC-SASH (for qualifying single-family homes) can provide solar energy options and bill credits.

For a full list, check the CPUC’s energy savings and assistance page.
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Step 3: Explore Everyday Tips to Cut Costs‍

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In addition to checking for discounts and upgrades, consider small changes that can also make a difference:

Switch to fluorescent or LED lightbulbs and turn off lights when not in use.
Wash clothes with cold water and only when you have a full load.
Run washers and dishwashers outside of peak hours (often 4–9 PM).
Take shorter showers or switch to low-flow showerheads.
Check for water or air leaks (sinks, toilets, windows, doors) and fix what you can. If you rent, ask your landlord about repairs.

Need Help Finding Resources?‍

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Call 211 or visit 211ca.org to get connected to local programs for energy, water, and internet assistance. You can also find your local United Way and see if they offer enrollment support.

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‍Use MyMoneyPath to Stay on Track‍

Finding ways to save on utilities or lower internet costs is a step toward keeping more money in your pocket. MyMoneyPath can help you take it further.