Colorado’s Low-income Energy Assistance Program (LEAP), a federally funded program that helps eligible Coloradans pay a portion of their winter home heating costs, is accepting applications through May 1.
The statewide program helps eligible individuals and families pay winter home heating costs by making a one-time payment directly to the utility company on behalf of each LEAP-eligible household. Last season, a record 84,000 LEAP recipients received an average benefit of $990.11.
To qualify for LEAP, Coloradans may have an income up to 60 percent of the state median income level, which equates to a household income of less than $66,468 a year for a family of four. LEAP recipients must pay home heating costs directly to a utility company or landlord as part of their rent and have at least one U.S. citizen or permanent legal resident of the U.S. living in the household.
LEAP recipients also may be eligible to receive furnace repair and replacement in heat-related emergencies, in addition to weatherization services pending the results of a home energy audit.
Currently, LEAP recipients may also qualify for the Low-Income Household Water Assistance Program, a temporary program that is part of the American Rescue Plan Act. LIHWAP provides funds to make a one-time payment to the water vendor directly on behalf of eligible households who are facing eviction due to unpaid water bills or whose account is either in arrears or shut off. That will last as long as funding is available; the water vendor must a LIHWAP participant.
To access the LEAP application, visit cdhs.colorado.gov/leap. Online applications are processed through the Colorado PEAK system.
You can also call 1-866-HEAT-HELP (1-866-432-8435) to receive an application via mail or email, or visit your county Human Services office to pick up or drop off an application. See humanservices.elpasoco.com for location and other details.