MILLIONS of Americans are set to pocket an extra boost this fall without lifting a finger.
In October, households and small businesses will receive direct payments into their accounts as part of the latest energy bill relief.
Americans will see up to $183 in automatic energy bill credits this year (stock)[/caption]
In October, households and small businesses will receive direct payments into their accounts (stock)[/caption]
The cash stems from a California program that kicks in twice a year, offering a welcome break as energy costs continue to be a strain for many.
The benefit will show up automatically on Pacific Gas and Electric Company bills.
Residential households will get a credit of $58.23 this October, the same amount they received earlier in the spring.
That’s on top of a $67.03 natural gas credit given annually to those with a gas account.
For homes that receive both electric and gas service from PG&E, the total value adds up to $183.49 in 2025.
Small businesses aren’t left out.
They’ll see the same $58.23 credit in October, matching what they received in April.
Their combined yearly total amounts to $116.46 in relief.
The credits are tied to California’s wider effort to cut emissions, with the funds distributed by PG&E under state orders.
“This credit helps ease energy costs for our customers and reinforces our commitment to a more sustainable and climate-resilient energy future,” said Vincent Davis, PG&E’s Senior Vice President for Customer Experience.
Since the program began in 2014, PG&E customers have racked up serious savings.
The California Public Utilities Commission says households and small businesses have received an average of $1,000 each in credits.
Statewide, that adds up to more than $12.9 billion returned to pockets through the initiative.
PG&E also highlights tools to help people cut bills even further.
How much you’ll get
- $58.23 – electric bill credit in October
- $58.23 – electric bill credit already given in April
- $67.03 – annual natural gas credit
- $183.49 – total relief for homes with both gas and electric service
- $116.46 – total annual relief for small businesses
The company offers free personal energy coaches through its HomeIntel program.
Budget Billing lets families spread costs evenly over the year.
An online Rate Comparison tool shows whether households are on the cheapest plan available.
For those struggling to pay, PG&E has a series of assistance programs.
Match My Payment doubles customer contributions up to $1,000 for past-due bills.
The REACH program provides a one-time energy credit of up to $300 for households behind on payments.
The federally funded Low Income Energy Assistance Program can cover as much as $1,500 in overdue bills.
Other discounts include 18% off electricity through the Family Electric Rate Assistance program and up to 35% off electric bills through California Alternate Rates for Energy.
Medical Baseline benefits are also available for customers who rely on life-support equipment at home.
