Facing financial challenges can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to essential services like electricity. Southern California Edison (SCE) understands these difficulties and offers a range of customer service options and payment assistance programs to support its 3.6 million residential customers. If you’re struggling to manage your utility bills, knowing the Sce Customer Service Number and the resources available is the first step towards finding a solution.
SCE is committed to working with customers experiencing financial hardship. They emphasize that timely communication is key. As Suzanne Middelburg, SCE’s former director of consumer affairs and customer satisfaction, stated, customers should reach out as soon as they anticipate a payment issue. By proactively contacting SCE and working collaboratively, customers can avoid service disconnection and find manageable solutions.
Contact SCE Customer Service for Immediate Assistance
The most direct way to explore your options and get personalized help is to call the SCE customer service number. Trained representatives are available to discuss your situation and guide you through the available programs.
For English speakers, the main SCE customer service number is (800) 747-8908.
SCE also provides dedicated lines in multiple languages to ensure accessibility for all customers:
- Spanish: (800) 441-2233
- Chinese: (800) 843-8343
- Korean: (800) 628-3061
- Vietnamese: (800) 327-3031
- Cambodian: (800) 843-1309
- TDD (for hearing impaired): (800) 352-8580
When you call the SCE customer service number, you can inquire about various payment assistance programs designed to ease financial burdens. These programs, approved by the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC), are confidential and designed to help you maintain your electricity service.
Explore SCE Payment Assistance Programs
SCE offers several programs to help customers manage their bills and avoid disconnection. Here’s a breakdown of the key assistance options:
Level Pay Plan
For predictable budgeting, the Level Pay Plan averages out your energy bills over the year. This eliminates the seasonal spikes, making it easier to manage your monthly expenses. To enroll in the Level Pay Plan, call (800) 434-2365.
California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) Program
The CARE program provides a significant discount of 20% on your electricity rates for eligible customers. Eligibility is based on income guidelines set by the CPUC. CARE participants are also exempt from certain surcharges. Contact (800) 447-6620 to check your eligibility and apply.
Energy Assistance Fund
This fund, supported by donations from SCE customers, employees, and shareholders, helps elderly, disabled, and low-income customers pay their winter electric bills during times of extreme financial hardship. The United Way administers the fund through community organizations. Call the SCE customer service number at (800) 655-4555 for more information and to find participating organizations.
Medical Baseline Allocation
If someone in your household requires electrically operated medical equipment for survival or mobility, or has a qualifying medical condition, you may be eligible for the Medical Baseline Allocation. This program provides lower rates and an additional allocation of kilowatt-hours. Call (800) 655-4555 to learn more and apply.
Friendly Reminder Notification
To provide an extra layer of security, SCE offers a Friendly Reminder Notification service. This allows you to designate a relative or friend to be notified if your bill becomes past due. This third party is not responsible for paying the bill but can serve as a helpful reminder. Set up this notification by calling (800) 655-4555.
Energy Efficiency Programs and Incentives
Reducing your energy consumption is a long-term solution to lower your bills. SCE offers various energy efficiency programs and incentives for homeowners and renters. They also provide free home energy surveys to identify ways to reduce your energy use. Call (800) 736-4777 to explore these programs.
Low Income Energy Efficiency Programs
For low-income households, SCE provides free services to improve energy efficiency and lower energy bills. These programs can include home upgrades and energy-saving advice. Contact (800) 736-4777 for more information.
Additional Contact for Elderly or Special-Needs Customers
If a full-time resident in your household is 62 or older or disabled, SCE offers an additional layer of support. In case of a past-due account that could lead to disconnection, a designated third party will be contacted. Inquire about this service when you call the SCE customer service number.
Billing Questions and Service Reconnection
If you believe there’s an error on your bill, contact SCE within five days of receipt. SCE will investigate and respond promptly. If you are not satisfied with the investigation’s outcome, you have the right to file a written complaint with the CPUC. Details about your rights and remedies are printed on the back of your SCE bill.
If your service has been disconnected for non-payment, you can have it reconnected by paying the past-due amount. Payments can be made at authorized payment agencies. For a list of locations, call (800) 747-8908 or visit the SCE website. If you pay and contact SCE before 3:30 p.m. on a weekday, reconnection may be possible on the same day.
SCE is Here to Help
Southern California Edison is committed to supporting its customers through financial challenges. Don’t hesitate to reach out and call the SCE customer service number at (800) 747-8908 or use the language-specific lines provided. By understanding the available programs and communicating with SCE, you can find solutions to manage your utility bills and maintain essential electricity service.
