Colorado LEAP (Low-income Energy Assistance Program)
Last updated August 2026
The Low-income Energy Assistance Program, LEAP, helps eligible families, seniors, and individuals pay a portion of winter home heating costs. It runs seasonally: the 2026-2027 season is November 1, 2026 through April 30, 2027, and applications are accepted only during that window. Apply online through Colorado PEAK, or call 1-866-HEAT-HELP (1-866-432-8435).
The income line is 60 percent of state median income. The 2026-2027 maximum gross monthly income limits are $3,774 for one person, $4,936 for two, $6,097 for three, $7,258 for four, $8,420 for five, $9,581 for six. You also need to pay home heating costs, directly or through rent, and provide proof of lawful presence.
The benefit goes where the bill is. In most cases LEAP pays your primary heating fuel vendor directly, and you get a letter stating the amount. LEAP pays the highest benefits to those with the highest heating fuel costs, so a big winter bill is not a reason to skip applying.
Timing is manageable. Most non-emergency applications are processed within 10 to 25 days, and no interview is required. If your heat is about to be shut off, LEAP may expedite your application in about 10 days, but you must keep paying your heat bills while it is pending.
For broken heat, there is a year-round program. The Crisis Intervention Program (CIP) repairs or replaces a home's primary heating system, like a furnace or wood-burning stove. Call FOR MY HEAT at 1-855-469-4328 for that help, which runs even outside the LEAP season.
One reassurance: applying for LEAP will not affect your other benefits. You can qualify while receiving Medicare, SSI, Colorado Works, food stamps, Old Age Pension, or aid to the needy disabled or blind. LEAP does not fund portable heaters, and you can receive heat assistance only once per season.
Phone 1-866-432-8435
Help available in English and Spanish.
Updated August 2026 Program details can change — confirm with the program directly.
Who qualifies
- Income at or below 60 percent of the state median income for your household size, and you must be responsible for paying home heating costs
- Homeowners and renters can both apply, and being on SNAP or other assistance can help establish that you qualify
You may qualify. The program makes the final decision.
How to apply
- 1
Apply during the season (Nov 1-Apr 30) through Colorado PEAK, by paper to your county, or call 1-866-432-8435.
- 2
Provide proof of income (up to 60 percent of state median), heating costs, and lawful presence.
- 3
Keep paying your heat bills while the application is pending.
- 4
If your furnace is broken, call FOR MY HEAT at 1-855-469-4328 for the year-round repair program.
What to have ready
- A recent heating bill, or proof heat is included in your rent
- Proof of income for household members
- ID and proof of lawful presence. Your county confirms the exact list.
What the application looks like
Common questions
When can I apply for LEAP?
During the heating season only. The 2026-2027 season runs November 1, 2026 through April 30, 2027.
What is the income limit?
60 percent of state median income: $3,774 a month for one person up to $9,581 for six, for the 2026-2027 season.
My furnace is broken. What do I do?
Call FOR MY HEAT at 1-855-469-4328. The year-round Crisis Intervention Program repairs or replaces a home's primary heating system.
Will applying affect my other benefits?
No. You can qualify for LEAP while receiving Medicare, SSI, Colorado Works, food stamps, Old Age Pension, or aid to the needy disabled or blind.
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