Applications for 2009-2010 LEAP will be accepted beginning November 1, 2009.
2009-2010 LEAP Application and Instructions »
Applications submitted before November 1, 2009 WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED.
LEAP (Low Income Energy Assistance Program)
LEAP is designed to help eligible low-income households with winter home heating costs. LEAP is not intended to pay the entire cost of home heating. LEAP benefits are available to all eligible persons without regard to race, sex, age, handicap, national original, political beliefs or religious beliefs.
For more information call the Colorado Department of Revenue at 303.238.7378 or 303.238.3278.
If you have received a "shut-off notice" please hand deliver your application and all attachments, with the shut off notice, to Douglas County Human Services as soon as possible to avoid service interruption. DO NOT MAIL the information as this will delay the process and service interruptions may not be avoided.
Eligibility Requirements
You qualify for LEAP if:
- You pay home heating costs to an energy provider, fuel dealer (propane, natural gas or wood), or as part of your rent
- You are a permanent legal resident of the United States and Colorado or you have household members that are U.S. citizens
- You provide proof of lawful presence in the U.S.
- Your maximum family household income falls within the guidelines given below. "Household" means people who live with you and for whom you are financial responsible.
Household Size |
Maximum Gross Monthly Income Effective November 1, 2009 |
| 1 | $ 1,670 |
| 2 | $ 2,246 |
| 3 | $ 2,823 |
| 4 | $ 3,400 |
| 5 | $ 3,976 |
| 6 | $ 4,553 |
| 7 | $ 5,129 |
| 8 | $ 5,706 |
| Each additional person | $ 577 |
For more information call toll-free 1.866.HEATHELP (1.866.432.8435) or call the Douglas County Department of Human Services at 303.688.4825.
Review Your Application Before you Turn It In
Make sure you're answered all the questions and have attached all the requested information. Your attention to detail now helps us process your application. If your application is not complete, we cannot process your request. The sooner your application is received, the sooner it will be processed, and a decision on your application can be made.
Verification of Lawful Presence
State law requires applicants for LEAP must provide additional documents with each LEAP application. A readable copy of one of the following valid identifications must be provided:
1. A Colorado Driver License; or, a Colorado Identification Card; or
2. A United States military card or, military dependant's card; or
3. A United States Merchant Mariner card; or
4. A Native American Tribal document.
5. Any other document authorized by rules adopted by the Department of Revenue (DOR).
The applicant for LEAP must also complete, sign and date the affidavit located on page 5 of the application. For more information go to Department of Revenue.
Continue Paying Your Heat Bill, as LEAP Assistance Will Not Pay for Your Entire Heat Bill
Do not wait for help from LEAP. Our process takes time, so you must keep your account current by making a payment towards your heat bill on time. If you apply for LEAP and receive a shutoff notice before you know the outcome of your application, or you have your heating service disconnected, notify the Douglas County Department of Human Services 303.688.4825, immediately.
Remember, simply filling out this application does not mean that you can ignore your current bills and notices from your energy company.
Your Participation In Other Government Programs Will Not Be Affected If You Apply for LEAP
No other government programs will cut or limit your participation in that program. This includes Medicare, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Colorado Works/TANF, Food Stamps, Old Age Pension (OAP), and Aid to Needy Disabled (AND)/Aid to the Blind (AB).
You Can Receive Only One LEAP Benefit Per Heat Season
The heat season runs from November 1st through April 30th. Although your LEAP assistance may be split into two (2) separate payments, any benefit you receive during a heat season will be the only one for that year - plan accordingly.
Mail, Fax, or Drop-Off Your Application to the Douglas County Department of Human Services (Douglas County residents ONLY) beginning November 1, 2008 through April 30, 2009. Please complete the checklist below to make sure your application is complete. Fax LEAP applications to 303.663.7713.
- I have answered all questions in all sections on my application.
- I have enclosed a readable copy of the applicant's valid (photo) identification.
- I have included social security numbers and birth dates for ALL household members.
- I have completed and signed the affidavit.
- I have attached proof (copies of pay stubs, award letters, loans, etc.) for all income received by my household last month.
- I have attached a copy of my most recent heating (not lighting) bill showing company name, address, and account numbers.
- I have attached a copy of my most recent rent receipt (if heating costs are included in rent). The rent receipt must clearly show heat is included.
- I have signed my application.
Additional LEAP Assistance
Crisis Intervention Program (CIP)
If you are eligible for LEAP, you may qualify for emergency help such as repair or replacement of your primary heating system. If you have this type of emergency during business hours you must contact the Douglas County Department of Human Services (Douglas County residents ONLY) and request a CIP application before any work is done.
If you have a life-threatening emergency after business hours or on the weekends, have the work done but you must apply within five (5) working days after the next business day to receive benefits. If you have a non-life-threatening emergency, wait until the next business day to contact the Douglas County Department of Human Services at 303.688.4825.
Weatherization
If you are eligible for LEAP, you may receive free furnace and weatherization services for your home through the Energy Saving Partners Program (E$P. LEAP applications are used by E$P to provide energy efficiency or Weatherization services. LEAP applications also serve as an E$P/weatherization application. For more information please call toll-free 1.866.HEATHELP or 1.866.432.8435. You may also visit the Energy Resource Center for more information.
Colorado Property Tax / Rent / Heat Rebate Program
This program is through the Colorado Department of Revenue. You may qualify if you are:
- A Colorado full year resident
- 65 years old, or a surviving spouse at least 58 years old, or disabled
AND
- Single with income below $11,000 per year
OR
- Married with income below $14,700 per year.
For more information call the Colorado Department of Revenue at 303.238.7378 or 303.238.3278.