LEAP closing application period July 31

Colorado LEAP (Low-income Energy Assistance Program) will accept applications through July 31 as the annual benefit program begins to wind down the 2019-20 funding period. LEAP is normally available November 1st to April 30th. This year the application deadline was extended because of the increased need created by COVID-19.



“We recognize there is a real need for the families and individuals in our state at this time. We have been able to serve many individuals and families during COVID-19 with the added funding period,” said Theresa Kullen, LEAP manager.



This year more than 106,000 applications were submitted for approval. More than 75,000 households received help with an average benefit of $671. This is the first-year phone applications were used extensively, with an excess of 7,000 telephonic applications processed. Increased community outreach and promotion of the program resulted in an increase in application submissions of 12%.



“These benefits are often the difference between buying groceries and needed prescriptions or having your heat bill go unpaid,” Kullen said. “We partner with other organizations to assist with additional emergencies like repairs and replacement.”



LEAP provides one-time heating assistance to individuals, families and older adults to help cover the cost of utility bills. Residents with an annual income up to 60% of the State Median Income and an individual household monthly income not exceeding $2,371/month or $4,561/month for a family of four may be eligible for benefits.



Applicants must also pay home heating costs to a landlord or utility company, meet the gross income limits, be residents of Colorado and contain at least one United States citizen or permanent legal resident of the U.S.



Applications are available through the end of July at Colorado PEAK or at Colorado LEAP. The website provides details about the application process and eligibility information.



For more information, call 1-866-HEAT-HELP (1-866-432-8435).