Colorado’s Low-income Energy Assistance Program is accepting applications for households who seek temporary utility assistance this winter, paving the way for eligible applicants to stay warm.

LEAP contributes a one-time payment directly to households’ utility companies in order to ensure their heat continues to stay on during winter months if they have difficulty paying the costs.

Households that receive an income of up to 60% of the state median income are eligible. This equates to an income less than $71,112 per year for a family of four.

According to a news release, LEAP recipients must also pay home heating costs directly to a utility business or landlord. At least one U.S. citizen or permanent legal resident must live in the household as well.

LEAP applications will open through April 30, 2024 for eligible applicants and those who are interested.

On top of home heating assistance, LEAP recipients may also qualify for a furnace repair and replacement during heat-related emergencies. They may also be eligible for weatherization services, depending on home energy audit results.

The statewide program assisted 89,000 Coloradans last year with an average benefit of $559.29.

“Coloradans who use natural gas to heat their homes are expected to spend less on heating this winter compared to last winter,” LEAP manager Theresa Kullen said. “And while this is good news, inflation is still high, forcing many Coloradans to choose between food, rent, medicine and a warm home. LEAP can help offset these financial pressures. We encourage anyone who thinks they may be eligible to apply and take advantage of LEAP’s many benefits.”

To apply, visit the LEAP website, where online applications are handled through the Colorado PEAK system.

To receive an application by mail or email, call the HEAT HELP line at 1-866-HEAT-HELP (1-866-432-8435).

Interested applicants can also visit their county human services office to pick up or drop off an application.