CARE Program

Make Your Energy Bill More Manageable

If you need assistance managing your energy bill, the Consumers Affordable Resource for Energy (CARE) Program may help. CARE is a two-year payment plan that provides monthly bill credits, payment rewards and catch-up assistance for those who qualify. You can also learn to cut energy costs with tips and tools to make your home more energy efficient. Find out if you qualify.
Eligibility

The CARE program isn't for everyone. To qualify, customers must be past due on their Consumers Energy account with an outstanding balance of less than $3,000 and meet the following criteria:

  • Must meet the household income guidelines
  • Must be 18 years or older
  • Must have regular monthly income
  • Must be a U.S. citizen or legal alien
  • Must be an active residential Consumers Energy account holder or the spouse of the account holder
  • Must not have theft, fraud or bankruptcy on the account

CARE Program Eligibility Guidelines
Number of Household Members Maximum MONTHLY Income
(150% of Poverty Level)
1 $1,507.50
2 $2,030
3 $2,552.50
4 $3,075
5 $3,597.50
6 $4,120
7 $4,642.50
8 $5,165
Add $522.50 for each additional family member
Enrollment Process

Thank you for your interest in the CARE Program. The enrollment window has closed for the 2017-2018 program year. Please check back in October 2018 for information about the 2018-2019 program.

TrueNorth Community Services is no longer accepting new CARE applications. For an update on the status of an application, call 231-355-5880.

The United Way of Jackson County is no longer accepting new CARE applications. For an update on the status of an application, call 844-220-6098.

The Salvation Army is no longer accepting new CARE applications. For an update on the status of an application call 855-929-1640.

You will need to gather the following supporting documentation to apply:
  • Most recent Consumers Energy bill
  • Social Security card of applicant
  • Driver’s license of applicant
  • Proof of all household gross income (amount before deductions) received during the 30 days prior to the application signature date
Assistance Programs

If the CARE Program isn't right for you, below are additional assistance programs.

State Emergency Relief (November 1 - May 31)
Providers Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS)
How to Qualify Must be past due* and income eligible
Possible Benefits Immediate hold for online applicants - up to $850/energy service. $1,700 for combined natural gas/electric
How to Apply Apply online at: mibridges.michigan.gov or contact your county DHHS office


Nonprofit Agency Assistance(October 1 as funds remain. Funding is limited, so apply soon.)
Providers
  • The Salvation Army/SA (statewide)
  • THAW (SE MI and Thumb)
  • Michigan Community Action Agencies/MCSS (statewide)
How to Qualify Must be past due* and income eligible
Possible Benefits Immediate hold for online applicants - up to $850 per energy service, $1,700 for combined gas/electric
How to Apply Contact the agency nearest you by phone:
  • SA: 855-929-1640
  • THAW: 800-866-8429
  • MCAA: mcaaa.org/resources/locator
*Customers on Shut off Protection Plan or Winter Protection Plan are considered eligible.

The Helping Neighbors Program

Learn how to lower your monthly utility bill and increase the energy efficiency of your home at no cost.

Learn More