Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LEAP)
The Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LEAP) was developed by the Ontario Energy Board (OEB) with input from electric and gas utilities, consumer associations and social service agencies. There are three components to the program to assist low-income customers:
- Emergency financial assistance fund
- Targeted conservation programs
- More flexible customer service rules.
We have launched the Emergency Financial Assistance Fund in January 2011. The other two components are under development and are expected to be available later this year.
For more information on the LEAP program, visit the OEB’s website.
Emergency Financial Assistance Fund
Hydro One has partnered with United Way of Greater Simcoe County to be our lead agency. The United Way of Greater Simcoe has in turn partnered with a number of social service agencies across the province, who will serve as intake agencies to meet with Hydro One customers and complete the LEAP fund application process.
The United Way of Greater Simcoe will pre-screen customers to see if they meet the household low-income guidelines, and other eligibility criteria, including if the customer is in threat of disconnection for non-payment.
Eligibility
The United Way of Greater Simcoe will determine eligibility. To be eligible for a grant you must meet the following criteria:
- Be an existing residential customer of Hydro One
- Reside at the address for which there are arrears on the electricity bill
- Have a pre-tax household income at or below the Statistics Canada Low-Income Cut-off + 15%
Statistics Canada Low Income Cut Offs (LICO), 2009, before tax (current dollars):
Source: http://www.statcan.gc.ca/pub/75f0002m/2010005/tbl/tbl02-eng.htm
In addition to the criteria above, the United Way of Greater Simcoe will also consider the following:
- Are you in threat of disconnection?
- Have you made prior attempts to pay bills and address your electricity account?
- Would the receipt of financial assistant allow you to sustain your electricity service?
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Emergency Financial Assistance Fund?
It is a grant program intended to provide emergency relief to eligible low-income customers who may be experiencing difficulty paying current arrears. It is not intended to provide regular or ongoing bill payment assistance.
How does the fund work?
Over 40 social service agencies will be able to assist Hydro One customers in their communities, who need help in paying their electricity bills. The agencies will help customers complete the application form. After successful completion of the application process, funding will be credited directly to the customers' Hydro One bill.
How do I know if I qualify?
Availability of funding is limited to Hydro One residential customers who meet the following conditions:
- Have a pre-tax household income at or below the Statistics Canada Low-Income Cut-off + 15%
- Have electricity bills that are currently in arrears
- Are in threat of disconnection
- Have made prior attempt to pay bills and address their electricity account.
- Receipt of financial assistance will allow the customer to sustain electricity service
Social service agencies will address these criteria during their discussion with customers and when completing the application.
How do I start the application process?
Please call the United Way of Greater Simcoe at 1-855-487-5327 (1-855-its-leap) from 8:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Monday to Friday. A representative will be happy to help you.
How long does the program run?
The program for Hydro One customers begins January 2011 and will be available until the amount of the fund is depleted.
What is the maximum grant available?
The program provides a one-time financial assistance grant of up to $500 per household. Households that are electrically-heated may qualify for up to $600.
How is the grant received?
The payment will be credited directly towards your Hydro One bill.
What’s involved in the application process?
Your first step is to call 1-855-487-5327. You’ll be asked some pre-screening questions. Assuming you meet the pre-screening criteria, you'll meet with an intake caseworker, and complete an application form.
What happens after I complete the application process?
Once your application has been completed and signed and the information verified (including service provider verification), the United Way of Greater Simcoe County will decide whether you are approved to receive a grant. One of the key factors that will be considered when determining a funding recommendation is whether or not the disconnection will be halted and whether you will still be able to pay your Hydro One bills in the future. The emergency financial assistance fund is not intended to provide long-term financial assistance. You must be able to maintain your electricity costs after you have received the grant.
What happens if my application is approved?
If your application is approved, Hydro One will be contacted by the United Way of Greater Simcoe County and asked to stop any further disconnection or collection activity on your account. The grant amount will be credited to your Hydro One account.
If my application is denied, can I appeal?
Yes, if you are not satisfied with the decision on your application you can start an appeals process through the United Way of Greater Simcoe (1-855-487-5327). Please note Hydro One is not involved in the grant decisions.
How is the program funded?
As directed by the Ontario Energy Board, the emergency financial assistance is funded through Hydro One’s delivery rates. Funds are collected from all customer classes (i.e. residential, commercial, industrial, etc.).