The REACH Program, which is administered by Dollar Energy Fund, assists eligible utility customers with their Pacific Gas and Electric bills. Customers may be eligible to receive a one-time grant that is applied directly to their utility bill. Program guidelines and eligibility requirements are subject to change.
2023 REACH Program
Program Dates
Open from January 1, 2023, through December 31, 2023, for services that are off or in threat of termination.
Grants are dispersed on a first come, first serve basis to eligible applicants while funding is available. The REACH program has limited funds each month, and may close temporarily any given month. The REACH program will re-open the first business day of the following month.
Balance Requirement
Applicants must have an outstanding balance on their Pacific Gas and Electric bill of at least $100.
Senior Citizens, age 62 and over, must have an outstanding balance of at least $50.
Maximum Grant
The maximum grant amount an applicant may receive is $500.
Applicants can only receive a grant once every 12 months.
Grants can only be used to pay past due amounts.
Grant awards are based on need and each family’s circumstances are different. Grant amounts are determined on a case-to-case basis.
If a customer’s past-due amount when they apply is over $500, the application will be denied. The past-due amount is determined by utility account review. Notification will be sent to the customer advising them that their application was denied and that an additional payment is required in order to be considered for assistance.
Additional Guidelines
Customers enrolled in the CAP are eligible to apply for a hardship grant.
Account must be residential, single home or apartment. No “cooking only,” commercial, industrial, or apartments with shared utility service.
Accounts that are in Section 8 or Government Subsidized housing may be eligible.
Name on account must be that of an adult who is currently living in the home.
Income-eligible clients must apply for all federally-funded programs when those programs are open.
All applicants must provide verification of income.
Dollar Energy Fund grants cannot be used to cover security deposits or reconnection fees.
Grants cannot be used to pay on closed accounts or transferred balances.
Income Guidelines
Total gross household income must be at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Income Guidelines.
Use our Income Calculator to find out if your gross (before tax) income is within the range of eligibility for our programs.
How to Apply
The best way to start seeking help is by contacting the REACH Program at 1-800-933-9677.
The REACH Program also partners with a network of Community Based Organizations. These dedicated agencies provide application intake services for clients. After speaking with a representative, you may be referred to an agency in your area. This agency will complete your application for assistance.
Find more information on the PG&E website, www.pge.com.