Colorado Low Income Energy and Heating Assistance (LEAP)
The Colorado LEAP program is a federally funded state-supervised, county-administered system designed to assist with winter heating costs
- Agency
- Colorado Department of Human Services
- Type
- State Resource
- Phone
- 303-866-5700, 720-944-3666
- Application Period
- November 1st through April 30th
- Income Limit
- Household income must not exceed 165% of the federal poverty level
The Colorado LEAP program is a federally funded state-supervised, county-administered system designed to assist with winter heating costs.
The Colorado LEAP program is a federally funded state-supervised, county-administered system designed to assist with winter heating costs.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must be Colorado residents and pay home heating costs to a utility company or landlord directly.
Application Process
Applications can be submitted online, by mail, or through county offices.
Required Documents
Copy of valid identification, proof of current income, most recent heating bill
Additional Information
Benefits are paid directly to the heating vendor.
Images & PDFs
Affordable Energy for All: A Plan to Expand Energy Efficiency Benefits for Low-Income Salt Lake City Residents
A report detailing strategies to enhance energy efficiency for low-income residents in Salt Lake City, focusing on reducing energy costs and environmental impact.
View Full ImageColorado Electric Utility Service Territories Map
A graphical map displaying the different electric utility service territories across Colorado, highlighting regions covered by various service providers.
View Full ImageColorado Energy Office Utility Map
A map displaying Colorado's electric utility service territories, highlighting regions serviced by various utility partners.
View Full ImageImpact Reports
Economic Necessity and Assistance: Understanding LEAP
9/10/2021 | Coverage: state
This research highlights how economic conditions, such as rising living costs, necessitate the need for energy assistance programs like LEAP.
Source: Colorado Nonprofit Association
Coverage Area: state
Rethinking Energy Assistance: A Study on Stigma Reduction
1/20/2023 | Coverage: national
This academic study explores the relationship between receiving energy assistance and social stigma, proposing strategies for improvement.
Source: Journal of Social Policy Research
Coverage Area: national
The Impact of LEAP on Colorado Families
3/15/2022 | Coverage: state
This report analyzes the effects of the Low Income Energy Assistance Program on low-income households in Colorado, focusing on economic stability and community well-being.
Source: Colorado Department of Human Services
Coverage Area: state
Program Timeline
COVID-19 Pandemic Response
3/1/2020During the COVID-19 pandemic, temporary measures were enacted to ensure continued assistance and prevent service disconnections for low-income households.
Introduction of Online Application System
5/12/2015An online application system for the LEAP program was launched, improving accessibility for applicants and streamlining the process.
Federal Stimulus and Increased Funding
2/17/2009The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act provided significant funding to the LEAP program, enabling increased benefits for eligible households during the economic downturn.
Expansion of Eligibility Requirements
6/15/1993The eligibility requirements for the LEAP program were expanded to include a broader range of income levels, allowing more families to qualify for assistance.
Establishment of LEAP Program
1/1/1982The Colorado Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LEAP) was established to help low-income households with heating costs.
FAQ
LEAP is a program designed to help low-income households in Colorado pay for their heating costs during the winter months. The program is funded by the federal government and administered by the Colorado Department of Human Services. Eligible households may receive assistance in the form of a one-time payment to their heating utility provider.
Reference: https://cdhs.colorado.gov/leap
To be eligible for LEAP assistance, applicants must meet specific income criteria and have a documented heating expense. Typically, households with incomes at or below 165% of the federal poverty level are eligible. Additionally, applicants must be residents of Colorado and provide proof of citizenship or legal residency.
To ensure you are eligible for LEAP, please review the following checklist:
- You reside in Colorado.
- Your household income is at or below 165% of the federal poverty level.
- You have a documented heating expense.
- You provide proof of citizenship or legal residency.
If you meet all these criteria, you are likely eligible for assistance.
Here are some important action items to follow when applying for LEAP:
- Gather required documents such as proof of income and heating expenses.
- Complete the LEAP application form, available online or through local agencies.
- Submit your application before the deadline to ensure timely processing.
- Check the status of your application by contacting your local LEAP office.
Completing these action items will help facilitate your application process.
Reference: https://cdhs.colorado.gov/leap
Eligibility and assistance amounts are subject to change based on funding and regulatory adjustments.
