Shocked at another high gas bill this month? Financial relief is available for those who qualify, and why not apply? After all, it’s your tax dollars that pay for the relief.

The Department of Social Services is encouraging those struggling to keep up with skyrocketing energy bills this winter to apply for the Low-Income Energy Assistant Program, or LEAP.

Applications submitted for the benefit program have substantially increased this year over last season, said Nyla Tortoriello, LEAP supervisor for Montezuma County. But assistance is still available.

"We believe that there are many more who meet the income standards, but do not sign up, or are not aware of the program," she said.

A frigid winter, combined with huge energy needs nationwide, has caused a demand for heat that is outpacing fuel supply, including for electricity, oil, propane and natural gas. The result is prices that keep climbing as temperatures hover in the teens for much of the day and night.

"The adverse weather and energy crisis have contributed to the increase in LEAP recipients," Tortoriello said. "Last winter was a lot less harsh."

Last season a total of 830 households applied for federal heating-bill assistance in Montezuma County, she said. Already that many have applied this year, with three months to go yet in the LEAP season.

The program runs from November through April. Eligibility for reduced heating bills is based on income levels. For example, the monthly earning threshold for a household with one person is $1,287; for two persons it’s $1,734, for three persons, $2,182; for four it’s $2,629. For each additional person, add $447.

Also, through LEAP, faulty heating systems can be repaired at a reduced cost, and weatherization benefits are also available.

LEAP offers emergency assistance, too. If you are facing a heating shut-off for non-payment, contact the LEAP office. They can help pay the bill and keep the heat on.

Pick up a LEAP application at the Montezuma County Social Services office, Room 203, at the county building. 565-3769.

For those who do not quite qualify for LEAP, the Colorado Energy Assistance Fund also provides benefits, especially for short-term energy emergencies. Call toll-free 1-866-432-8435 for more information.

A billing option offered by Greeley Gas Company helps keep the heat bill more constant by spreading the costs over the year. Budget billing sets a fixed monthly amount owed during colder months; the balance is then billed out during a settlement month, usually in the summer. Call (970) 304-2048 for budget-billing information.