Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LEAP) - Emergency Financial Assistance
LEAP gives you a one-time emergency grant if you are behind on your electricity or natural gas bill and could be cut off. It is run by the Ontario Energy Board through local agencies. Paying off the bill frees up money for rent. You can get up to $650 for electricity ($780 if your home is heated by electricity) and up to $650 for gas.
What you get
Up to $780
Who it's for
You qualify if you have a low income, are behind on your power or gas bill, and could be disconnected.
This takes you to the official website
What to have ready
Documents they may ask for
- Government ID for everyone in your household, if available
- A copy of your lease or rent agreement
- Recent rent receipt, ledger, or proof of what you owe
- Recent pay stubs, benefit statement, or income proof
- ODSP, Ontario Works, CPP, OAS, or other benefit statement if you have one
- Recent bank statement, if the program asks for it
What to say when you call
“Hi, I found your housing support program and I want to check if I can apply. Can you tell me the current rules, documents needed, and the next step?”
Use the official page first, then call 211 if you are not sure where to start.
Can I get this?
You have a good chance if this sounds like you:
- You qualify if you have a low income, are behind on your power or gas bill, and could be disconnected
- You must owe at least the amount you ask for
What to do next
Check off each step as you go — we'll remember where you are.
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The fine print
More details about the money
Up to $650 for electricity ($780 if the home is electrically heated) and up to $650 for natural gas. You cannot receive more than you owe, so the actual grant may be less.
Amounts and eligibility change. Confirm the current figure with the program administrator through the official link before you rely on it.
The full eligibility rules
Low-income energy customers who are in arrears and may face disconnection, and who meet after-tax household income thresholds by size (e.g. 1 person under $38,000; 2 people under $54,000; 3-4 people under $65,000; 5+ people under $71,000). You must owe at least the amount of help requested.
Good to know
All figures CONFIRMED on the OEB official page: $650 electricity / $780 if electrically heated / $650 natural gas; income thresholds by household size as listed; grant paid directly to the utility. Maximums and thresholds are set by the OEB and can change; verify current figures on the OEB page.
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