Are you struggling to pay your home heating bills during the cold winter months in Colorado? The Low-income Energy Assistance Program (LEAP) may be the help you need. This program is designed to support hard-working families, seniors, and individuals by reducing the cost of heating their homes during winter.
LEAP brings warmth and comfort to homes across Colorado from November through April, helping with energy costs and repairs to heating systems. Let’s understand how LEAP works, who qualifies, and how to apply.
What Does LEAP Do?
LEAP is a federally funded program that assists eligible households in Colorado by covering part of their winter heating costs. The goal is to keep homes warm and safe without placing the entire financial burden on families.
If approved, LEAP typically pays the benefit amount directly to your heating fuel vendor, not to the applicant. This ensures that your home stays heated without delay.
LEAP also offers help with repairing or replacing your main heating system, such as a furnace, boiler, or wood-burning stove. However, it does not provide support for temporary or portable heating devices like space heaters.
LEAP Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for LEAP, your household income must be up to 60% of Colorado’s median income level. This level is updated each year by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
The exact benefit amount you may receive will depend on several factors, including:
- Your household income
- Your family size
- Your main heating fuel cost
- Type of heating system used
Even if you’re already receiving other forms of government assistance, you may still qualify for LEAP.
How to Apply for LEAP
LEAP applications are accepted every year from November to April.
To apply:
- Visit the official LEAP website or contact 1-866-HEAT-HELP (1-866-432-8435) for full guidance.
- Use the checklist provided online to prepare your documents before applying.
- If you received a paper application in the mail, use the return envelope provided to submit it.
- Otherwise, call the number above to find out the correct mailing address for your county.
Note: If you need assistance outside the regular LEAP season, you may still have options. Just call the support line to check.
LEAP is a helpful program designed to ease the stress of paying winter heating bills in Colorado. If you qualify, the program can cover part of your energy bill or even help fix your heating system. It ensures that your home stays warm, safe, and comfortable throughout the coldest months of the year.
Don’t wait until it’s too cold—start preparing your LEAP application early in the season. And if you have questions, the support team at 1-866-HEAT-HELP is always ready to assist you.
FAQs
What is the LEAP program in Colorado?
LEAP is a federally funded program that helps eligible Colorado residents pay part of their winter home heating bills.
Who qualifies for LEAP heating assistance?
Households with income up to 60% of Colorado’s median income may qualify, based on family size and heating costs.
When can I apply for LEAP?
LEAP accepts applications from November through April each year.
How are LEAP benefits paid?
In most cases, LEAP pays the energy benefit directly to your heating fuel vendor. You’ll receive a notice with the benefit amount.
How do I contact LEAP or find the address to submit my application?
Call 1-866-HEAT-HELP (1-866-432-8435) to speak with a representative or to find your local county contact address.
