Colorado LEAP Heating Assistance for Kinship Caregivers
What LEAP Is
The Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LEAP) is Colorado's federally funded heating assistance program. It helps low-income households pay winter heating bills — natural gas, propane, electric heat, wood, or pellets. For grandparents and relatives who've taken on the cost of raising a child they didn't expect, LEAP can ease a significant winter expense.
LEAP runs from November 1 through April 30 each year. Applications are accepted from November 1 through April 30.
Who Qualifies
LEAP eligibility is based on household income (typically at or below 60% of the state median income, adjusted for household size) and a qualifying heating expense. You must be a Colorado resident and responsible for paying heating costs — either directly to a utility company or as part of your rent.
Adding a grandchild to your household increases your household size, which raises the income limit. A two-person household has a higher threshold than a one-person household, so taking in a grandchild can actually improve your chances of qualifying.
You can still apply if you receive Colorado Works, SNAP, SSI, or certain other public benefits; the county will determine your LEAP eligibility.
What LEAP Pays
LEAP doesn't cover the entire heating bill. It provides a one-time payment during the heating season, usually sent directly to your utility company or fuel vendor. The amount varies by household income, household size, and heating fuel type. LEAP usually pays between $200 and $1,000.
If you're facing a heating emergency, call the LEAP hotline at 1-866-HEAT-HELP (1-866-432-8435) to ask what help is available.
Free Download
Get the Colorado Kinship Benefits Checklist
Everything in this article as a printable checklist — plus action plans and reference guides you can start using today.
How to Apply
Apply through Colorado PEAK at peak.my.site.com, call the LEAP hotline at 1-866-HEAT-HELP (1-866-432-8435), or visit your county Department of Human Services. You'll need proof of income, a recent heating bill, Social Security numbers for all household members, and proof of Colorado residency.
LEAP is one of several support programs kinship caregivers in Colorado can access. For the complete list — including cash grants, health coverage, food benefits, and child care assistance — see our Colorado Kinship Financial Help guide.
Get Your Free Colorado Kinship Benefits Checklist
Download the Colorado Kinship Benefits Checklist — a printable guide with checklists, scripts, and action plans you can start using today.