Image
What is LEAP?
The Low‑income Energy Assistance Program (LEAP) is a one‑time emergency support program that helps Ontario households who are struggling to pay their electricity or natural gas bills and may be at risk of service disconnection. The program is designed to provide short‑term relief during unexpected financial hardship and help keep essential energy services connected. To learn more, visit the Ontario Energy Board website.
What Support Does LEAP Provide?
LEAP offers emergency financial assistance to help reduce overdue energy bills. If you qualify, funding is paid directly to your utility company on your behalf. Eligible households may receive:
- Up to $650 toward electricity bills
- Up to $780 if the home is electrically heated
- Up to $650 toward natural gas bills
The amount provided will not exceed what you currently owe. LEAP assistance is intended to help in urgent situations and is not meant to replace regular monthly bill payments or long‑term supports
Who May Be Eligible?
Qualifying for a LEAP grant depends on two factors:
- How many people live in the home, and
- The combined annual household income.
Income limits increase with the number of people living in the home. For example, a household of four people with an annual after‑tax income of up to $65,000 may be eligible for assistance. You must also be behind on your energy bill and facing the risk of disconnection to qualify.
LEAP EFA income eligibility criteria
| Household after tax income ($) | Number of people living in home | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | |
| Less than 38,000 | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| 38,001 - 54,000 | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |
| 54,001 - 65,000 | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ||
| 65,001 - 71,000 | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ||||
How to Apply
Applications for LEAP are handled through local intake agencies. These agencies assess eligibility and guide you through the application process. You cannot apply directly to the Ontario Energy Board. You can find your local agencies below:
Contact a Designated Intake Agency:
- Port Colborne Residents - Port Cares – 905-834-3629
- Fort Erie Residents - Port Cares – 905-994-5276
As part of the application, you may be asked to provide:
- Identification
- Recent electricity and/or natural gas bills
- A disconnection notice (if applicable)
- Proof of housing (such as a lease, rent receipt, or mortgage document)
- Proof of household income
- A recent bank statement
Once you apply, the intake agency will review your information and contact your energy utility to temporarily pause disconnection or collection activities while your application is being assessed.