The Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LEAP) is designed to help low-income households pay for winter home heating costs.
The amount of the LEAP payment is dependent on the amount of federal funds received by the State of Colorado. It will not pay the total cost.
Individuals may qualify for LEAP if they meet all of the following requirements: a) pay home heating costs to an energy provider, fuel dealer or as part of the rent; b) they are a permanent legal resident or a US citizen; c) have proof of lawful presence in the US; and d) meet income requirements.
To qualify for LEAP, individuals must complete the application form, submit proof of all income and identity, and a recent heating bill or rent receipt (if heat is included in the rent showing the cost of heat). Individuals must sign an affidavit indicating they are legal residents of the US. LEAP will pay for heating costs only (gas, electric, wood).
If you are facing an emergency, such as a pending shut-off of your utilities, submit or fax to the LEAP office a copy of the past month of income, along with your utility shut-off notice with a cover letter noting that it is an emergency. Your application can be processed within 10 business days.
Utility companies in Colorado are not allowed to shut off utilities for a period of 90 days with a medical certificate signed by a licensed physician or health practitioner. This certification can be used once year.
LEAP applications will be sent by the energy provider to households that have received assistance in the past.
To apply, visit Colorado Peak.
Here’s a PDF version of the paper application: ENGLISH APPLICATION | SPANISH APPLICATION
Note: If you submit a paper application, mail to the processing center serving your county: View the list of processing centers by county (PDF)
Home-Heating Costs: Energy Efficiency Options
Another program that is available to LEAP households is weatherization, a program to make homes more energy efficient. These cost-effective improvements and upgrades will reduce energy usage, save money, and improve the overall comfort of the home year-round.
Weatherization improvements may include: an energy audit; compact fluorescent light bulb retrofits; air sealing; insulation in attic, floor, and walls; furnace safety testing; furnace repair or replacement; refrigerator replacement; storm windows and doors; energy conservation information. These repairs can be made year-round to private homes or to some rentals including duplexes and fourplexes, as well as manufactured homes. Local agencies provide these services. For more information about weatherization services Energy Services
The Crisis Intervention Program operates year-round and provides assistance with the repair or replacement of the home’s primary heating system such as a furnace or wood-burning stove. Contact Energy Outreach Colorado for information about the program.
For more information about any of these programs, call 303-333-3482.