Applications now open for LEAP

Applications are now open for the Colorado Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LEAP). This  state program is designed to help eligible families, seniors, and individuals manage winter home heating costs. The program runs annually from November 1 through April 30.

LEAP provides a one-time payment directly to heating utility providers to help cover primary heating fuel costs, regardless of whether a home relies on natural gas, electricity, propane, or firewood. Households that pay for heat directly or have heating costs included in their rent are eligible to apply.

In addition to heating bill assistance, eligible applicants may receive support for emergency furnace or heating system repairs and replacements, as well as weatherization services to improve long-term home energy efficiency.

Eligibility guidelines

To qualify for LEAP assistance during the heating season, households must meet the following criteria:

• Pay home heating costs directly to a utility provider or as part of rent.
• Provide proof of lawful presence in the United States for household members born outside the country.
• Meet monthly gross household income limits:
  • 1-person household: $3,774 or less per month
  • 2-person household: $4,936 or less per month
  • 3-person household: $6,097 or less per month
  • 4-person household: $7,258 or less per month
  • 5-person household: $8,420 or less per month
  • 6-person household: $9,581 or less per month
  • View the entire income table for LEAP eligibility.

How to apply

Mesa County residents can apply any of the following ways:

• Online: Visit the Colorado PEAK website at peak.colorado.gov.
• Phone: Call 1-866-HEAT-HELP (1-866-432-8435) to receive an application by mail or ask questions.

Once an application is approved, assistance payments are sent directly to the recipient's energy vendor, and applicants receive a written notice outlining their benefit amount.

Visit the Colorado Department of Human Services website to learn more about eligibility requirements and access application forms.