California HEEHRA rebates 2026 are entering a new phase, and thousands of California homeowners could still qualify for thousands of dollars in home energy rebates. Before you spend a single dollar on a heat pump, insulation, electrical upgrades, or other home energy improvements, read this first.
Some links in this article are affiliate links. We may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Energy grants, rebates, and eligibility rules can change quickly, so always confirm the latest information with the official programme administrator before applying or signing a contract.
Last verified: June 2026 against the California Energy Commission, TECH Clean California, and Switch Is On.
If you’ve just been quoted $15,000 to $20,000 for a new heat pump, stop.
Thousands of California homeowners have already missed out on thousands of dollars in rebates because they installed too early, chose a contractor who wasn’t approved, or simply didn’t know the HEEHRA waitlist existed.
In this guide, you’ll learn who qualifies, what Phase II means, how the waitlist works, how to avoid the most expensive mistakes, and exactly what you should do before paying for any installation.
Here’s the short answer before we dive into the details.
Can You Still Get California HEEHRA Rebates 2026?
If you are a single-family homeowner: Phase I funding is fully reserved. You cannot get a rebate right now but you can join the Phase II waitlist, and Phase II has $152 million confirmed. Get on that list today.
If you own a multifamily property: rebates are confirmed still available statewide. Contact TECH Multifamily directly.
If your income is above 150% AMI: HEEHRA is not available to you but other active rebates are worth thousands.
If you are struggling with your energy bills right now: CARE, FERA, and LIHEAP are open today and require no installation.
Everything else in this guide tells you exactly what to do based on your situation.
🟥 The one rule that will cost you thousands if you miss it:
Do not install a heat pump expecting a HEEHRA rebate unless you already have a written, approved reservation. The California Energy Commission is explicit: rebates are not available for equipment purchased or installed before a HEEHRA rebate is reserved and approved. Installing before approval means no rebate. No exceptions.
⚠️ Scam warning: Never pay anyone a fee just to access a HEEHRA rebate. Legitimate programmes never charge for applications. Your HEEHRA-trained contractor will only need your income eligibility verification code or approval PDF, not your financial statements or bank details. If you receive an unsolicited call about IRA energy rebates, hang up and verify directly through techcleanca.com or switchison.org. To report a scam contact the California Department of Consumer Affairs at 1-800-952-5210 or email the CEC at iraresidentialenergyrebates@energy.ca.gov.
Start Here: Find Your Situation
| Your Situation | What Is Available | Where to Start |
|---|---|---|
| Single-family homeowner, income below 150% AMI | Phase I fully reserved. Join Phase II waitlist now. | The Waitlist |
| Single-family homeowner, income above 150% AMI | HEEHRA not available. Other rebates are. | If You Do Not Qualify |
| Multifamily property owner | Rebates still available statewide. | Multifamily |
| Struggling with energy bills right now | CARE, FERA, and LIHEAP open today. | Help Right Now |
| LADWP customer | Heat pump rebates up to $2,500 per ton, active now. | LADWP and SMUD |
| SMUD customer | Heat pump rebates up to $3,000, active now. | LADWP and SMUD |
| PG&E, SCE, or SDG&E customer | Golden State Rebates and GoGreen Financing active now. | PGE SCE SDG&E |
| Already installed without approval | Read this carefully. | Already Installed |
Three Families. Three Situations. What Happens to Each One.
Before we get into the detail, here are three fictional but realistic examples. Find the one closest to your situation.
Sarah. Sacramento. Household income $58,000. Family of four.
Sarah earns below 80% of the Area Median Income for Sacramento County. She qualifies for the full HEEHRA rebate of up to $8,000, which would cover up to 100% of her heat pump project cost. Phase I is fully reserved so she cannot get the rebate right now. What she should do today: find a HEEHRA-certified contractor at switchison.org, join the Phase II waitlist, and apply for CARE through her utility for an immediate 35% reduction in her monthly electricity bill while she waits.
David. Los Angeles. Household income $142,000. LADWP customer.
David earns above 150% of the Area Median Income for Los Angeles County. HEEHRA is not available to him regardless of Phase II. But he is an LADWP customer, which puts him in a strong position right now. LADWP’s Consumer Rebate Programme offers up to $2,500 per ton on qualifying heat pump systems with no income restriction. A 3-ton ductless mini-split at the highest efficiency tier could get him up to $7,500 in active LADWP rebates today.
Mike. San Jose. PG&E customer. Already installed his heat pump last month without an approved reservation.
This is the painful one. The California Energy Commission is explicit: HEEHRA rebates are not retroactive. Mike cannot claim Phase I HEEHRA on his existing installation. What he can do: check whether PG&E offers a separate heat pump rebate that does not require HEEHRA approval, apply for CARE if his income qualifies, and join the HEEHRA waitlist for any future upgrade such as a heat pump water heater under Phase II.
What to Do Today: Three Actions Only
If you are overwhelmed and want only the most important steps, here they are.
Action 1: Find a HEEHRA-certified contractor at switchison.org and ask them to put you on the Phase II waitlist. This costs nothing and positions you for first access when funding opens.
Action 2: Apply for CARE through your utility provider today if your household income is below $64,300 per year for a household of four. Ten minutes online. Cuts your electricity bill by 30 to 35% every month starting now.
Action 3: Save your income documents as a single PDF on your phone or desktop: your 2025 tax return and your three most recent pay stubs. When Phase II opens and your contractor needs to move fast, having this ready removes the most common bottleneck.
Take two minutes to do Action 2 right now. You will thank yourself when you see next month’s bill.
💡 Bottom line so far
Phase I is finished. Phase II has $152 million confirmed and is being designed. Utility rebates are active now. CARE is open now. The waitlist is free and worth joining today.
HEEHRA vs HOMES vs Utility Rebates: What Is the Difference?
Many California homeowners are confused about how these programmes relate to each other. Here is a simple comparison.
| Programme | What It Funds | Income Required | Current Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| HEEHRA | Specific appliances: heat pumps, water heaters, panels, insulation, stoves, dryers | Yes, below 150% AMI | Single-family Phase I fully reserved. Phase II being designed. |
| HOMES Equitable Building Decarbonisation | No-cost retrofits for low-income households | Yes, low-income | Retrofits expected from summer 2025. Check with regional administrators. |
| HOMES Pay for Performance | Whole-home retrofits, rebates based on measured savings | All incomes, enhanced for low-income | Not yet launched |
| LADWP rebates | Heat pump HVAC and water heaters | No income limit | ACTIVE now |
| SMUD rebates | Heat pump HVAC and panel upgrades | No income limit | ACTIVE now |
| Golden State Rebates | Smart thermostats, heat pump water heaters | No income limit | ACTIVE now |
| GoGreen Financing | Any qualifying energy upgrade, low-interest loan | No income limit | ACTIVE now |
| CARE and FERA | Monthly electricity bill discount | Yes, income-based | ACTIVE now |
| LIHEAP | Annual heating and cooling bill assistance | Yes, income-based | ACTIVE now |
The key insight: HEEHRA single-family and HOMES Pay for Performance are either reserved or not yet launched. Everything else in the table is active right now.
📋 Research credits: All programme details, eligibility criteria, rebate amounts, and status information in this article have been verified against the California Energy Commission, TECH Clean California, the Switch Is On, the HEEHRA Income Portal, and the US Department of Energy, current as of June 2026. Confirmed facts are clearly distinguished from expected or unconfirmed details throughout. Always verify directly with the official provider before making any purchasing decisions or booking any work.
What Is HEEHRA?
HEEHRA stands for Home Electrification and Appliance Rebates. It is sometimes called HEAR at the national level. In California it has been administered through the TECH Clean California initiative.
The programme was created by the federal Inflation Reduction Act, signed into law on August 16, 2022. It provides point-of-sale rebates, meaning money comes off your project cost at the time of installation rather than requiring you to wait for a tax refund, for income-qualifying households replacing gas or resistance heating with high-efficiency electric heat pump systems.
The programme is overseen by the US Department of Energy, managed in California by the California Energy Commission, and administered on the ground through TECH Clean California using a network of specially trained certified contractors.
California received approximately $590 million in total IRA home energy funding across three programmes. HEEHRA received $290 million total, split between Phase I and Phase II. The HOMES programme received $291 million. CA-TREC, the contractor training programme, received $10.3 million.
HEEHRA is income-based. It is designed specifically for low-to-moderate income households who need the most help covering the upfront cost of switching from gas to electric systems.
Current Status: What Fully Reserved Actually Means
As of February 24, 2026, HEEHRA single-family rebates are fully reserved statewide in California. Confirmed directly by the California Energy Commission.
The programme ran out of reserved funding. Every dollar of Phase I single-family funding has been committed to projects already in the pipeline. No new income verification applications are being accepted for single-family homes.
This did not happen all at once. Central and Southern California reached full reservation on January 7, 2026. Northern California followed on February 24, 2026. The demand was extraordinary. A programme that was expected to run for several years was effectively fully claimed within a matter of months.
What this does NOT mean:
HEEHRA was not cancelled. The One Big Beautiful Bill Act, passed in July 2025, terminated the 25C and 25D federal tax credits for new work after December 31, 2025. It did not repeal HEEHRA. The programme structure is intact. Phase II funding of $152 million is confirmed by the California Energy Commission. Phase II is actively being designed, though no launch date has been announced.
💡 Bottom line on status
Phase I finished. Phase II funded and being designed. No launch date yet. Utility rebates still running. Get on the waitlist now.
💡 Multifamily is different: The California Energy Commission confirms that HEEHRA rebates are still available statewide for multifamily homes. If you own a qualifying multifamily property, contact TECH Multifamily directly at TECHMF@aea.us.org.
What If I Already Installed a Heat Pump Without an Approved Reservation?
This catches a lot of homeowners out and it is important to understand clearly.
The California Energy Commission states this directly: HEEHRA rebates are not retroactive. Rebates are not available for equipment purchased or installed before a HEEHRA rebate is reserved and approved.
If you installed a heat pump in 2026 without an approved reservation, Phase I HEEHRA rebates are not available for that installation. There are no exceptions to this rule.
What you can still do:
Check whether your utility provider offers a heat pump rebate independently of HEEHRA. LADWP, SMUD, PG&E, SCE, and SDG&E all have separate active rebate programmes that do not require HEEHRA approval.
Check whether your installation qualifies for GoGreen Financing on any remaining costs.
Apply for CARE or FERA for immediate monthly bill savings.
Join the HEEHRA waitlist for any future upgrade under Phase II, which may cover a broader range of appliances beyond heat pump HVAC.
If a contractor told you the rebate would come through without a reservation approval and it did not, contact the California Department of Consumer Affairs at 1-800-952-5210 or the CEC at iraresidentialenergyrebates@energy.ca.gov.
Why Did Funding Run Out So Fast?
Understanding this helps explain why preparation for Phase II matters so much.
Extraordinary consumer demand. California has millions of households with ageing gas systems and some of the highest electricity costs in the country. When a programme offering up to $8,000 toward a heat pump became available, the response was immediate and overwhelming.
A contractor bottleneck. To qualify to process HEEHRA rebates, a contractor must register with the state, complete specific training, and agree to strict quality assurance checks. Not every HVAC company in California completed that registration before demand surged. The result was that a limited number of certified contractors were handling an enormous volume of applications. Households with certified contractors already in place moved quickly. Households still searching for contractors lost time, and by the time some of them found a certified contractor their regional funding was already exhausted.
Here is the mistake we see people make over and over: they assume they have time to find a contractor after Phase II opens. They do not. The households that move fastest when Phase II launches will be the ones that already have a certified contractor briefed and ready to go.
Who Qualifies for HEEHRA?
Income Eligibility
| Income Level | Rebate Available | Project Cost Coverage |
|---|---|---|
| Below 80% AMI | Up to $8,000 | Up to 100% of project cost |
| 80% to 150% AMI | Up to $4,000 | Up to 50% of project cost |
| Above 150% AMI | Not eligible | Not applicable |
AMI stands for Area Median Income. It varies by county and household size. To find the specific AMI for your county use the HUD Income Limits tool at huduser.gov/portal/datasets/il.html.
Property Eligibility
| Property Type | Eligible? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Single-family detached home | Yes | Retrofit only |
| Manufactured or mobile home | Yes | Retrofit only |
| Condominium | Yes | Retrofit only |
| New construction | No | Existing homes only |
| New accessory dwelling unit | No | Not eligible |
| Rental property | Yes | Landlord applies, tenant must be income-qualifying |
| Multifamily (5+ units) | Separate programme | Still available statewide |
What You Must Be Replacing
The project must replace an existing non-heat pump source of space heating. You must be switching from gas or electric resistance heating to a heat pump. Replacing one heat pump with another generally does not qualify.
Contractor Requirement
HEEHRA rebates are only available through contractors who are HEEHRA-trained and TECH Clean California-certified. You cannot apply directly. You cannot use any contractor. Your contractor must have the HEEHRA badge visible on the Switch Is On contractor finder at switchison.org.
What HEEHRA Covers: Eligible Equipment and Rebate Amounts
Single-Family Phase I — Confirmed
Phase I for single-family homes covered one primary upgrade: heat pump HVAC systems replacing existing non-heat pump heating sources.
Equipment requirements, all must be met:
Two-speed or variable-speed system. Single-speed does not qualify.
ENERGY STAR certified. Check at energystar.gov/productfinder before purchasing.
Refrigerant with a global warming potential of 700 or lower as of January 1, 2026. R-410A is not eligible. Qualifying refrigerants include R-32 and R-454B.
AHRI-matched system. Retrofit only. Not new construction.
Phase II — Expected But Not Yet Confirmed
⚠️ The following amounts reflect the national HEEHRA framework and the California multifamily programme. They are NOT confirmed for California single-family Phase II. The California Energy Commission has not announced Phase II eligibility rules, amounts, or launch dates. Do not make purchasing decisions based on these figures. Verify at energy.ca.gov when Phase II launches.
| Upgrade | Expected Maximum Rebate |
|---|---|
| Heat pump HVAC | Up to $8,000 |
| Heat pump water heater | Up to $1,750 |
| Electrical panel upgrade | Up to $4,000 |
| Electrical wiring | Up to $2,500 |
| Insulation and air sealing | Up to $1,600 per dwelling unit |
| Electric stove or cooktop | Up to $840 |
| Heat pump clothes dryer | Up to $840 |
| Combined household cap | Up to $14,000 |
Multifamily Properties
Unlike single-family homes, the California Energy Commission confirms that HEEHRA rebates are still available statewide for multifamily homes as of June 2026.
Multifamily eligibility:
Owners of multifamily properties in California with five or more residential units housing income-qualifying customers.
Governmental, commercial, or nonprofit organisations carrying out projects on behalf of qualifying multifamily property owners.
Low-income multifamily: at least 66% of units at or below 80% AMI. Covers up to 100% of eligible project costs not exceeding $14,000 per unit.
Moderate-income multifamily in Senate Bill 535 disadvantaged communities: at least 50% of units at or below 150% AMI. Covers up to 50% of eligible costs not exceeding $14,000 per unit.
All multifamily projects must comply with California Department of Industrial Relations Prevailing Wage and Public Works Requirements.
Eligible equipment for multifamily includes: heat pumps for space heating and cooling, heat pump water heaters, electric cooktops, ranges and ovens at $840 per unit, heat pump clothes dryers at $840 per unit, electrical panel upgrades up to $4,000, electrical wiring up to $2,500, insulation and air sealing up to $1,600 per dwelling unit.
Contact for multifamily enquiries: TECHMF@aea.us.org
The HEEHRA Waitlist: How It Works in Plain English
Here is the waitlist process in the simplest possible terms.
The situation: Phase I single-family funding is fully reserved. New reservations go on a waitlist rather than receiving guaranteed funding.
What being on the waitlist means: You are in line for Phase II funding and any Phase I funds that free up if existing reservation holders do not complete their projects. You are not guaranteed a rebate. But you will be ahead of everyone who is not on the list when new money becomes available.
The one rule that will cost you thousands if you ignore it: You cannot install your heat pump until your reservation is approved. Not while waiting. Not if you think approval is coming soon. Only after you have the written approval in your hand. The California Energy Commission is explicit: do not make any purchases until you have a reserved and approved rebate.
How to get on the waitlist:
Step 1: Go to switchison.org and find a contractor with the HEEHRA badge. Only HEEHRA-trained TECH-certified contractors can submit waitlist reservations.
Step 2: Contact that contractor and ask them to put you on the HEEHRA waitlist for Phase II.
Step 3: Your contractor submits the reservation through the TECH IRIS system on your behalf. You do not submit anything yourself directly to the programme.
Step 4: Wait for written approval before doing anything else.
Step 5: Once approved, you will have a window to complete the installation. Under Phase I that window was approximately 120 days from approval.
💡 Who contacts whom: You contact a certified contractor. The contractor submits your waitlist reservation to the TECH system. The programme issues written confirmation. You do not contact the programme directly for reservations. For general questions contact TECH at tech.info@energy-solution.com or call 1-888-494-2532.
💡 Bottom line on the waitlist
Find a certified contractor now. Ask them to submit your Phase II waitlist reservation. Do nothing else with your heating system until you have written approval in hand.
How to Prepare Right Now for Phase II
Get your income documents ready today.
Here is the mistake we see people make over and over: they find out Phase II has opened, call their contractor, and then spend three days scrambling to gather paperwork while other households with everything ready move ahead of them in the queue.
Save these as a single PDF on your phone or desktop right now:
Your 2025 federal tax return (Form 1040). Your three most recent pay stubs. If you receive SSI, CalFresh, Medi-Cal, or other qualifying assistance, a copy of your most recent benefit letter.
⚠️ Important: Under Phase I, your contractor only needed your income eligibility verification code from the official portal, not your full financial documents. Prepare these documents for the official income verification process, not to hand directly to your contractor. Your contractor should never need your bank details or financial statements. If they ask for these, stop and verify their credentials at switchison.org before proceeding.
Consider a proactive home energy assessment.
For certain upgrades Phase II may require a home energy assessment as part of the application. Getting one now from a certified HERS rater, typically $200 to $400 out of pocket, means you are construction-ready when Phase II opens. Find a certified HERS rater at cabec.org.
Install a smart thermostat now.
High-efficiency variable-speed heat pumps, which are the systems HEEHRA is designed to fund, perform best when paired with a thermostat that supports multi-stage and variable-speed operation. A basic on-off thermostat cannot take advantage of variable-speed operation and leaves significant efficiency on the table.
Installing a compatible smart thermostat now also qualifies for utility rebates of up to $75 through LADWP or Golden State Rebates, money you can claim right now while you wait.
Four smart thermostats worth considering for California homes planning a heat pump installation:
ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium — Best for heat pumps. Supports multi-stage and variable-speed systems natively. Works with demand response programmes across all major California utilities. The strongest option if you are installing or planning to install a high-efficiency heat pump. No subscription needed for core features. Check the latest price on Amazon
Google Nest Learning Thermostat — Best for hands-off automation. Learns your schedule and adjusts automatically. Works well with PG&E and SCE demand response programmes. No subscription for core features. Check the latest price on Amazon
Honeywell Home T9 — Best for larger homes. Wireless room sensors focus comfort where people actually are rather than heating or cooling rooms nobody is using. Accepted by most major California utility rebate programmes. Check the latest price on Amazon
Amazon Smart Thermostat — Best budget option. ENERGY STAR certified, Alexa built-in, and accepted by most California utility rebate programmes including Golden State Rebates. The most affordable qualifying option if you want rebate eligibility without spending more than necessary. Check the latest price on Amazon
All four are ENERGY STAR certified and accepted by most California utility rebate programmes. Always check your utility’s approved product list before purchasing.
Apply for CARE or FERA right now.
If your income is below $64,300 per year for a household of four, apply for CARE through your utility provider today. Thirty to thirty five percent off your electricity bill every month. Ten minutes online. No installation required. No reason to wait.
Active Programmes Available Right Now
While you wait for Phase II, these programmes are open today.
CARE and FERA: Monthly Bill Discounts
CARE cuts electricity bills by 30 to 35% for income-qualifying households and gas bills by 20%. Income limit for a household of four: $64,300 per year for the current programme year. Also qualifies automatically with CalFresh, Medi-Cal, SSI, or several other assistance programmes. Apply through your utility provider.
FERA provides an 18% discount for qualifying households of three or more people just above the CARE income limit. For a household of four: $64,301 to $80,375 per year.
CARE and FERA are mutually exclusive. LIHEAP stacks with either.
LIHEAP: Annual Bill Assistance
Federal bill assistance of $94 to $1,500 for heating and $283 to $932 for cooling annually. Crisis assistance up to $1,500. Income threshold: 60% of state median income. Apply at energyhelp.us or call 1-866-674-6327.
LADWP and SMUD: Active Heat Pump Rebates
LADWP offers heat pump HVAC rebates of $1,000 to $2,500 per ton depending on system type and efficiency. No income restriction. Heat pump water heater rebates up to $2,500 per unit. Smart thermostat up to $75 instant rebate through the Efficient Product Marketplace. Apply at ladwp.com/crp or call 1-800-374-2224.
SMUD offers up to $3,000 for variable-stage gas-to-electric heat pump HVAC and a $2,000 panel upgrade bonus for gas-to-electric conversions. Apply at smud.org/rebates or call 916-732-7550.
PG&E, SCE, and SDG&E
Golden State Rebates covers PG&E, SCE, SDG&E, and SoCalGas customers with instant coupon rebates on qualifying smart thermostats and heat pump water heaters at participating retailers. Check availability at goldenstaterebates.com.
SCE smart thermostat demand response: $75 bill credit for enrolling a qualifying thermostat.
PG&E Energy Savings Assistance: Free upgrades for income-qualifying customers. Call 1-800-743-5000.
SCE Energy Savings Assistance: Free or deeply discounted HVAC upgrades for income-qualifying households. Call 1-800-950-2356.
Find every active rebate at your specific address at incentives.switchison.org.
For free one-on-one guidance call Energy Upgrade California at 1-866-858-7431.
If You Do Not Qualify for HEEHRA
If your income is above 150% AMI, HEEHRA is not available to you regardless of Phase II. Your active options are:
LADWP or SMUD utility rebates if you are in their service territory. No income restriction.
Golden State Rebates for PG&E, SCE, SDG&E, and SoCalGas customers.
GoGreen Financing: state-backed loans from 3.24% APR, no home equity required, no property lien, terms up to 15 years. A separate 0% interest promotion is available for eligible households in underserved communities. Start at gogreenfinancing.com.
HEEHRA Phase II: What Is Confirmed and What Is Not
| Claim | Status | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Phase II has $152 million in funding | CONFIRMED | California Energy Commission directly |
| Phase II is being designed by the CEC | CONFIRMED | California Energy Commission directly |
| No launch date has been announced | CONFIRMED | California Energy Commission directly |
| CEC held a Phase II public workshop December 2024 | CONFIRMED | California Energy Commission directly |
| Phase II will expand beyond heat pump HVAC | EXPECTED, not confirmed | Based on federal HEEHRA framework |
| Phase II income limits | NOT CONFIRMED | CEC has not announced |
| Phase II rebate amounts | NOT CONFIRMED | CEC has not announced |
| Phase II application process | NOT CONFIRMED | CEC has not announced |
The California Energy Commission held a public workshop on HEEHRA Phase II in December 2024 and is incorporating public feedback into its Phase II application to the US Department of Energy. This confirms the programme is progressing but gives no timeline.
💡 Bottom line on Phase II
The money exists. The programme is being designed. Nobody knows the launch date yet. Get on the waitlist, get your documents ready, and stay subscribed to energy.ca.gov updates. When Phase II opens it will move fast.
The Full Application Process: Step by Step
⚠️ Phase II caveat: The following reflects the Phase I application process. Phase II requirements may differ. Treat this as a preparation guide, not a confirmed Phase II process. Verify requirements directly with your certified contractor and at techcleanca.com when Phase II launches.
Documents Checklist
| Document | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 federal tax return (Form 1040) | Income verification | For the official income portal, not for your contractor directly |
| Three most recent pay stubs | Income verification | For the official income portal, not for your contractor directly |
| Benefit letter if applicable | Categorical eligibility | SSI, CalFresh, Medi-Cal etc |
| Income verification code or approval PDF | Proof of eligibility tier | This is what your contractor actually needs |
| Property ownership documentation | Confirm you own the home | Your contractor |
| AHRI certificate for qualifying equipment | Confirm system eligibility | Your contractor |
| Final approved building permit | Required for heat pump installation | Your contractor submits with the claim |
Step by Step
Step 1: Check your income.
Use the HUD Income Limits tool at huduser.gov to find your county AMI. Confirm you are below 150% AMI to qualify for any HEEHRA rebate.
Step 2: Find a certified contractor.
Go to switchison.org and filter for the HEEHRA badge. Get at least three quotes from different certified contractors. Prices vary significantly for the same installation.
Step 3: Income verification.
Your contractor guides you through the official income verification portal. The portal issues an income eligibility verification code confirming your AMI tier. Your contractor needs that code only, not your underlying financial documents. Never provide bank details or financial statements to your contractor. For income verification questions: email tech.info@energy-solution.com or call 1-888-494-2532.
Step 4: Reservation submission.
Your contractor submits the reservation through the TECH IRIS system. This must happen before any installation work or purchasing begins.
Step 5: Wait for written approval.
Do not buy equipment. Do not schedule installation. Do not sign contracts based on receiving this rebate. The CEC is explicit: do not make any purchases until you have a reserved and approved rebate.
Step 6: Plan your installation.
Confirm all equipment meets current requirements including ENERGY STAR certification and low-GWP refrigerant. Under Phase I projects had approximately 120 days from approval to complete and invoice.
Step 7: Installation and claim.
Your contractor installs the qualifying equipment, obtains all required permits and inspections, and submits the claim. The rebate is delivered as an instant discount on your invoice or as a check after completion.
For contractor questions: email tech.contractor@energy-solution.com or call 833-256-0560.
For issues or concerns with the CEC: email iraresidentialenergyrebates@energy.ca.gov or call 916-343-8471.
Common Mistakes That Deny or Delay Rebates
| Mistake | Consequence | How to Avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Installing before reservation approval | No rebate, no exceptions | Wait for written approval before any work or purchasing |
| Using a non-HEEHRA contractor | No rebate | Only use contractors with HEEHRA badge at switchison.org |
| Buying R-410A refrigerant equipment | Not eligible since January 2026 | Confirm GWP in writing before purchasing |
| Combining TECH and HEEHRA on same project | Not permitted since July 2025 | Choose one programme before committing |
| Providing financial info directly to contractor | Scam risk | Only provide income verification code, not financial documents |
| Assuming waitlist guarantees funding | False expectation | Waitlist gives priority access, not guaranteed rebates |
| Missing completion deadlines | Reservation cancelled | Ask contractor about current deadline at time of approval |
| Not checking ENERGY STAR database | Non-qualifying equipment | Check energystar.gov before purchasing any equipment |
| Going with first contractor found | Overpaying | Get at least three quotes from certified contractors |
| Waiting for Phase II before finding a contractor | Starting behind on day one | Find and brief a certified contractor now |
| Not having income documents ready | Losing time when Phase II opens | Save documents as a single PDF today |
Stacking HEEHRA With Other Programmes
| Stack | Permitted | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| HEEHRA and TECH Clean California | No | Not permitted on same project since July 15 2025 |
| HEEHRA and federal 25C tax credit | No | 25C expired December 31 2025 |
| HEEHRA and HOMES | Yes, different improvements | HEEHRA for heat pump, HOMES for insulation |
| HEEHRA and LADWP utility rebates | Yes | Combined total cannot exceed project cost |
| HEEHRA and SMUD utility rebates | Yes | Combined total cannot exceed project cost |
| HEEHRA and GoGreen Financing | Yes | Finance the portion not covered by HEEHRA |
| HEEHRA and CARE or FERA | Yes | Bill discounts run independently |
| HEEHRA and LIHEAP | Yes | Federal bill assistance is separate |
⚠️ Always declare existing rebates when applying for multiple programmes. Combined rebates cannot exceed your total project cost.
Key Dates and Timeline
| Date | What Happened |
|---|---|
| August 16, 2022 | Inflation Reduction Act signed into law |
| June 2024 | DOE awarded $290 million to California for HEEHRA |
| October 8, 2024 | California HEEHRA Phase I launched for multifamily |
| November 12, 2024 | California HEEHRA Phase I launched for single-family |
| December 2024 | CEC held HEEHRA Phase II public workshop |
| July 15, 2025 | TECH and HEEHRA stacking rule took effect |
| January 1, 2026 | Low-GWP refrigerant requirement took effect |
| January 7, 2026 | Central and Southern California single-family fully reserved |
| February 24, 2026 | Northern California fully reserved. Statewide fully reserved. |
| February 28, 2026 | Phase I project completion and invoicing deadline |
| Phase II | Date to be announced. $152 million confirmed by CEC. |
Your Action Plan Based on Your Situation
If you are below 80% AMI:
You qualify for the maximum HEEHRA rebate tier when Phase II opens. Find a certified contractor at switchison.org today. Save your income documents as a single PDF. Apply for CARE for immediate bill savings. Consider a home energy assessment now from a HERS rater at cabec.org to remove a bottleneck when Phase II launches.
If you are between 80% and 150% AMI:
You qualify for partial HEEHRA rebates covering 50% of project costs. Same preparation steps apply. Also check LADWP or SMUD utility rebates if you are in their territory as these are active now.
If you are above 150% AMI:
HEEHRA is not available to you. Go to incentives.switchison.org to find every active utility rebate at your address. Consider GoGreen Financing for larger projects.
If you are a renter:
You cannot apply for HEEHRA directly. Your landlord can apply if they own the property and you meet the income requirements. For immediate help apply for CARE or FERA through your utility and LIHEAP through energyhelp.us.
If you own a multifamily property:
HEEHRA rebates are confirmed still available statewide for multifamily. Contact TECHMF@aea.us.org directly for current application status.
If you are on the existing waitlist:
Do not install equipment until your reservation is approved in writing. Keep your contractor updated on your contact details. When your reservation activates you will likely have approximately 120 days to complete the project.
If you are overwhelmed:
Ignore everything else and do these three things first. One: go to switchison.org and find a certified contractor. Two: apply for CARE today through your utility if your income qualifies. Three: save your income documents as a single PDF. Everything else follows from those three steps.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does HEEHRA stand for?
Home Electrification and Appliance Rebates. It is the California name for the programme known nationally as HEAR. Funded by the Inflation Reduction Act, overseen by the US Department of Energy, managed by the California Energy Commission, and administered through TECH Clean California.
How do I apply for California HEEHRA rebates?
Currently no new single-family income verifications are being accepted. To prepare for Phase II: find a HEEHRA-certified contractor at switchison.org, ask them to put you on the Phase II waitlist, and gather your income documents. Your contractor submits the reservation on your behalf. For questions call TECH at 1-888-494-2532 or email tech.info@energy-solution.com.
Can renters qualify?
Not directly. A landlord who owns the property and whose tenant household is income-qualifying can apply. For renters personally, CARE, FERA, and LIHEAP are all available immediately. Do not wait for HEEHRA if you are renting and need bill help now.
Is HEEHRA still available in California in 2026?
Single-family Phase I is fully reserved as of February 24, 2026. No new applications are being accepted. Phase II with $152 million in confirmed funding is being designed by the CEC with no launch date announced as of June 2026. Multifamily HEEHRA rebates are confirmed still available statewide.
Was HEEHRA cancelled by the One Big Beautiful Bill Act?
No. That legislation terminated the 25C and 25D federal tax credits but did not repeal HEEHRA. The programme still exists and Phase II is being developed.
How much is the HEEHRA rebate?
Under Phase I: up to $8,000 for households below 80% AMI covering up to 100% of project costs. Up to $4,000 for 80% to 150% AMI covering up to 50% of project costs. Phase II amounts are not yet confirmed by the CEC.
Can I apply right now?
Not for new single-family income verifications. Contact a certified contractor at switchison.org to join the Phase II waitlist and begin preparing.
How do I find a HEEHRA-certified contractor?
Go to switchison.org and use the contractor finder. Filter for the HEEHRA badge. Verify every contractor through this directory before signing anything.
Can I do a DIY installation?
No. HEEHRA rebates require installation by a HEEHRA-trained TECH-certified contractor. No exceptions.
What if I already installed a heat pump without an approved reservation?
The CEC is explicit: HEEHRA rebates are not retroactive. Phase I rebates are not available for installations without prior approved reservation. Check your utility provider for separate active rebates that do not require HEEHRA approval.
Can I combine HEEHRA with utility rebates?
Generally yes. Combined totals cannot exceed your project cost. Confirm with both programmes before committing.
Can I combine HEEHRA with TECH Clean California incentives?
No. As of July 15, 2025, a project cannot receive both on the same equipment.
Can I combine HEEHRA with HOMES?
Yes for different improvements. HEEHRA for the heat pump, HOMES for insulation and air sealing as separate qualifying measures.
What refrigerant requirement applies?
As of January 1, 2026, qualifying systems must use refrigerants with a GWP of 700 or lower. R-410A is not eligible. Verify refrigerant compliance in writing before purchasing.
Does new construction qualify?
No. Existing homes only. New construction and new ADUs do not qualify.
What is the AMI and how do I find mine?
Area Median Income varies by county and household size. Use the HUD Income Limits tool at huduser.gov to find your specific county’s thresholds.
What documents do I need?
Prepare your 2025 tax return, recent pay stubs, and any benefit letters for the official income verification process. Your contractor only needs the income verification code the portal issues, not your underlying financial documents. Never provide bank details or financial statements to a contractor.
What happens if Phase II does not launch?
Phase II funding is confirmed and the programme is being actively designed. However if Phase II does not launch, households on the waitlist would not receive rebates. Do not install equipment or make purchasing commitments based solely on expected Phase II funding.
Is there a fee to apply?
No. Never pay anyone a fee to access HEEHRA rebates. If asked for payment that is a scam. Call 1-800-952-5210 or email iraresidentialenergyrebates@energy.ca.gov.
What if I sell my home before Phase II opens?
The rebate is tied to the property and the installation, not the person. If you sell before your reservation is activated and the installation is completed, you cannot take the rebate to a new property.
What if I was scammed?
Contact the California Department of Consumer Affairs at 1-800-952-5210, California’s Office of the Attorney General, the Better Business Bureau, or your county’s District Attorney’s Office. You can also report directly to the CEC at iraresidentialenergyrebates@energy.ca.gov.
Which smart thermostat works best with a HEEHRA-funded heat pump?
Smart thermostats are not a standalone HEEHRA qualifying item but are essential for getting the full efficiency benefit from a variable-speed heat pump. The ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium supports multi-stage and variable-speed systems natively and qualifies for most California utility rebates independently. See our full guide: Best Smart Thermostats for Home 2026
Official Contacts
| Contact | Purpose | Details |
|---|---|---|
| TECH Clean California general | Programme questions, income verification | tech.info@energy-solution.com or 1-888-494-2532 |
| TECH Clean California contractors | Contractor-specific questions | tech.contractor@energy-solution.com or 833-256-0560 |
| TECH Multifamily | Multifamily application status | TECHMF@aea.us.org |
| California Energy Commission | Issues, concerns, scam reporting | iraresidentialenergyrebates@energy.ca.gov or 916-343-8471 |
| California Department of Consumer Affairs | Scam reporting | 1-800-952-5210 |
| Switch Is On contractor finder | Find certified contractors | switchison.org |
| HEEHRA income portal | Income verification status | heehra-incomeportal.com |
Don’t Miss Phase II
If you remember only one thing from this guide, remember this.
Do not buy a heat pump until your rebate has been officially approved in writing.
If you are feeling overwhelmed right now, ignore everything else and do these three things:
Find a certified contractor at switchison.org and ask them to put you on the Phase II waitlist. Apply for CARE through your utility today if your income qualifies. Save your income documents as a single PDF so you are ready to move the moment Phase II opens.
That simple preparation could save you thousands of dollars. Phase II has $152 million confirmed. When it opens, the households that are ready will be first in line.
Get on the list. Prepare your paperwork. Choose a certified contractor now.
Related Reading
- California Home Energy Rebates 2026: The Honest Guide
- US Home Energy Grants and Rebates 2026
- Your Energy Company Could Pay You to Upgrade Your Thermostat
- Is a Smart Thermostat Worth It in 2026?
Sources
- California Energy Commission, IRA Residential Energy Rebate Programmes: energy.ca.gov
- California Energy Commission, IRA FAQ: energy.ca.gov/faq-ira
- California Energy Commission, Homeowner and Renter Energy Resources: energy.ca.gov
- TECH Clean California, HEEHRA Rebates: techcleanca.com/incentives/heehrarebates
- TECH Clean California, News and Updates: techcleanca.com/about/news
- Switch Is On, Incentive Resources and Contractor Finder: switchison.org
- HEEHRA Income Portal: heehra-incomeportal.com
- TECH Clean California, HEEHRA Fully Reserved Announcement: efiling.energy.ca.gov
- US Department of Energy, Home Energy Rebates: energy.gov/cmei/scep
- HUD Income Limits: huduser.gov/portal/datasets/il.html
- ENERGY STAR Certified Products: energystar.gov/productfinder
- California Association of Building Energy Consultants: cabec.org
- Golden State Rebates: goldenstaterebates.com
- GoGreen Financing: gogreenfinancing.com
- LADWP Consumer Rebate Programme: ladwp.com/crp
- SMUD Heating and Cooling Rebates: smud.org/rebates
- EnergyHelp.us: energyhelp.us
- Home Energy Basics, California Heat Pump Rebates June 2026: homeenergybasics.com
Reviewed by The Thermo Expert Team
The Thermo Expert Team researches and compares smart thermostats, heating systems, and common HVAC issues to provide clear, practical advice for homeowners. Our goal is to help you understand problems quickly and choose the right solution with confidence. Learn more about us →