How to apply for LEAP — Low-income Energy Assistance Program in Colorado

Who it's for

LEAP helps pay part of winter home heating costs and can repair or replace a broken furnace or wood stove. Households with income up to 60% of the state median income can qualify. For the 2026-27 season the gross monthly income limit is $3,774 for one person and $4,936 for two. The season runs November 1 through April 30. Apply online through Colorado PEAK or at your county human services office (see the county LEAP intake record). Payments usually go straight to the heating company.

What you'll need

• Proof of all household income for the month before applying
• Most recent heating bill (or rent receipt if heat is included)
• Social Security numbers and birth dates for household members
• Lawful presence documents for members born outside the U.S.

Where to apply

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about LEAP — Low-income Energy Assistance Program. I'd like to know whether I may qualify, what documents I need, and whether I can apply online, by mail, by phone, or in person. I understand I may need proof of all household income for the month before applying, most recent heating bill (or rent receipt if heat is included), social Security numbers and birth dates for household members — is anything else required? What is the best next step?"

Tip: have a pen ready, ask for the person's name, and write down any case or reference number they give you.

Step by step

1. Check that the application season is open. LEAP takes applications from November 1 through April 30 each heating season.
2. Gather proof of all household income for the month before applying.
3. Get your most recent heating bill. If heat is included in rent, get your rent receipt instead.
4. Collect Social Security numbers and birth dates for everyone in the household. If any household member was born outside the U.S., gather lawful presence documents for that person.
5. Apply online through Colorado PEAK or apply by phone at 1-866-432-8435.
6. Answer all questions and submit the required documents so the county LEAP office can review your application.

What to expect: After you apply, the county LEAP office makes the final decision. Processing times vary, so ask for an estimate when you apply. If approved, payments usually go straight to the heating company. Benefits are paid once per season and depend on heating costs, income, and available funding. LEAP must be renewed each year during the heating season.

Renewals

annual (each heating season)