Grants for Homeowners in Colorado

There are many ways homeowners can get grants in Colorado. Below we have included resources and brief overviews of grants we found attractive for Colorado homeowners.

How can I get a home improvement grant in Colorado?

Home improvement or home repair grants and loans in Colorado or any other state in the US are available to low and moderate-income homeowners, renters, and lenders. There are 65 home improvement and support programs in Colorado. These funds may primarily be used by low-income families with children, low-income single parents, low-income senior citizens, veterans, and disabled people. The process until applicants are approved can be long and requires providing a large amount of 100% accurate information. The eligibility requirements on these funds vary on income, age, type of property, as well as the location of the property. Reaching out to federal, state and county agencies that administer grant and loan programs and getting informed of the documents and eligibility requirements is your first step if you need such funds.

For convenience, search and apply for Colorado home repair grants online. You can also start by visiting or contacting your U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development or HUD’s official office, found in the city of Denver, https://www.hud.gov/states/colorado/offices, or get informed on the homeownership assistance and improvement programs on the following link: https://www.hud.gov/states/colorado/homeownership/homerepairs. HUD provides federal assistance to local administrations and organizations, such as the Community Development Block Grant Program (CDBG) or the HOME Investment Partnership Program.

As a state, Colorado offers support to its residents, including new homeowners and long-time property owners alike. Non-profit organizations, such as Habitat for Humanity, have over 20  offices in Colorado that can help your home improvement projects by providing volunteer labor and free or discounted materials from their Restores. You can find and contact an office, and get informed on the programs they offer, as well as the documents and eligibility requirements:

Rebuilding Together is another non-profit organization that offers free services to low-income residents. This organization has affiliates in Colorado Springs and Metro Denver:

If you need to connect with available resources in your community, but don’t know where to look, 2-1-1 Colorado is also a great place to start. 2-1-1 Colorado is a free, confidential service available to anyone and it is responsible in Colorado for the 211 helplines. This is a live telephone service available on a 24-hour basis to connect residents to a variety of human services or social services across the state. According to their official website, the 2-1-1 call specialists can be found in every state and they are available 24/7 to help callers find such services as mortgage, rent, and utility assistance, food, emergency shelter, health care, counseling, support groups, etc., that are available right in their communities:

How can I get a solar grant in Colorado?

Colorado has lots of sunshine and laws that are favorable for solar power. As a state with more than 300 days of sunshine a year, Colorado is a prime location for solar energy. Many homes and businesses in this state start getting their power from solar panels. Colorado offers renewable energy and energy efficiency incentive programs, which are available for residential customers, small and large businesses, and government agencies, to improve the environment and stimulate sustainable economic development and growth. Going solar in 2021 is essential for reducing carbon emissions by using renewable clean energy from the sun and lowering your monthly energy costs. Beyond the federal ITC, Colorado offers additional incentives for going solar, depending on where you live and who your utility company is.

The Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit or ITC is a federal policy that supports the use of solar energy in the USA. This policy represents a 26% tax credit claimed against the tax liability for solar systems on residential and commercial properties. Given a solar panel system size of 5 kilowatts (kW), an average solar installation in Colorado ranges in cost from $13,302.00 to $17,998.00, with the average gross price for solar in Colorado coming in at $15,650.00. You can apply for this credit on your taxes when you purchase solar systems and install them on your roofs.

The percentage that you can get is the following:

• 26 percent for projects that begin construction in 2021 and 2022,
• 22 percent for projects that begin construction in 2023,
• After 2023, the residential credit drops to zero while the commercial credit drops to a permanent 10 percent.

To apply for this credit you must meet certain criteria, such as:

• The solar PV system is located at your primary or secondary residence in the United States, or for an off-site community solar project, if the electricity generated is credited against, and does not exceed, your home’s electricity consumption,
• You own the solar PV system (i.e., you purchased it with cash or through financing but you are neither leasing nor are in an arrangement to purchase electricity generated by a system you do not own),
• The solar PV system is new or being used for the first time. The credit can only be claimed on the “original installation” of the solar equipment.

Renewable Portfolio Standards are available in the state of Colorado since 2004. This regulation requires investor-owned utilities to get 30% energy from renewable sources by 2021.

Property Tax Exemptions are available in Colorado, so purchasing new solar panels won’t increase your property taxes. Sales and Use Tax Exemption for Renewable Energy Equipment are also available here. Colorado exempts from the state’s sales and use tax all sales, storage, and use of components used in the production of alternating current electricity from a renewable energy source. The exemption also includes all sales, storage, and use of components used in solar thermal systems. Depending on which Colorado city you live in, this can save you 2.9% to 8.3%

Fort Collins Utilities supports customers in generating their own renewable energy using solar photovoltaic (PV) panels. Residential customers can apply to receive rebates up to $1,000.00 for a solar PV installation.

The City of Boulder offers solar grants to income-qualifying homeowners, limited to 50% of total project costs after other incentives are applied with a maximum cap of $8,000.00. City of Boulder residential solar grants are available through the city’s EnergySmart partners. These grants are offered on a rolling, first-come, first-served basis to income-qualified homeowners while funding is available. In order to participate in the city’s solar grant program, you must live within Boulder city limits and be enrolled in EnergySmart: https://energysmartyes.com/contact/.

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Colorado’s Local Incentives

How can I get a debt grant in Colorado?

Dealing with debt in the middle of the Covid-19 crisis is not easy. Whether you have become unemployed or underemployed as a result of the pandemics, there are federal and state resources you may use to lower your debt. Although getting a grant that will completely cover all of your debt is NOT available, there are still several other options in Colorado to consolidate and lower your debts. This state also offers financial assistance for bills, rent, and mortgage to income-eligible residents.

While the government and government-approved agencies do not typically provide debt grants, they do offer a variety of programs that can assist consumers who are struggling with their finances or overwhelmed with credit card debts. Many credit counselors offer debt consolidation programs that can lower the interest rate on your outstanding debts, like high-interest credit card debts. Another option at your disposal is the debt consolidation loans where a debt consolidation lender pays off your debts and all you are left with is one single payment for this new loan. The third option is debt settlement in which a debt negotiator works out a settlement with your creditors.

If you’re facing unmanageable debt, a Debt Management Program might be the answer. This program helps you pay off your debt to multiple creditors with a single, comfortable monthly payment. When you sign for this kind of program at any of the available agencies, they negotiate better terms for you from each of your creditors. The payment then goes to your chosen agency and they distribute those funds on your behalf. A debt management plan is not a loan, but an agreement between debt management companies and creditors on your behalf. Although this is NOT a grant, you still save money in interest and fees. Before you agree to a debt management plan, it is advisable to get help from a credit counseling organization. Debt Management Plans usually last from 36 to 60 months. The link below shows a list of approved credit counseling agencies in the state of Colorado you may contact:

You can also try and reduce your debt by applying online for debt counseling services at InCharge.org, a non-profit organization. This organization has a debt management program that works directly with creditors to consolidate your debt through the method of combining multiple debts into one monthly payment, reduce the interest rate on your credit, and create a monthly payment plan that you can afford.

Another financial strategy to pay off your debts is through a Debt Consolidation Loan. This means getting a loan to pay off all of your debts and then make single monthly payments to your lender. The advantages are that debt consolidation loans usually carry a lower interest rate, and these loans usually take 2 to 5 years to repay, depending on the amount. The loans can be secured by a home, car, or property or be unsecured.

Debt Settlement is your third option, in which a debt negotiator works out a settlement with your creditor. This settlement reduces your existing loan principles and credit card balances by a substantial margin. This option is a prime alternative to bankruptcy.

If you are having credit card debts, you can use a Balance Transfer Credit Card. This type of card typically comes with a promotional, low, or zero percent interest rate, which lasts usually 12-18, but in some cases could go for 24 months.

Are there homeowner grants for bills in Colorado?

The government or other available grant programs can provide financial aid to help pay for housing, mortgage, rent, utilities, medical supplies, or even transportation costs. There are resources for low-income families, single mothers, seniors, people with disabilities, veterans and their families, the unemployed, the underemployed, and others in need. Residents of Colorado impacted by the Covid-19 crisis may also use these programs. Many utility companies in Colorado also have programs to assist low-income customers. These funds may help you pay your utility bills or give you a discount and lower the amount of energy you use.

The Colorado Low-income Energy Assistance Program (LEAP) is a federally funded program that helps eligible Colorado families, seniors, and individuals pay a portion of their winter home heating costs. Eligibility is based on several factors, including household income, household size, and heating costs. A household income of at least 60% of the Area Median Income is required. LEAP only accepts applications between November and April. If you are interested and eligible for this program call the following number 1-866-HEAT HELP or visit the site below and find your local provider:

The state of Colorado offers different types of federal benefits to its residents in need. Colorado PEAK is a site where you can research and apply for these benefits. From Cash Assistance and Food Assistance to Old Age Pension and Health Care Program, here you have it all.

The Colorado Works-Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program is another program available in Colorado. You can also apply for these funds by visiting the Colorado PEAK website. Colorado Works operates in all 64 counties and is delivered locally through each county’s department of human or social services. This program provides cash assistance and supportive services to assist families with children under age 18.

Households that meet low-income guidelines or receive public benefits, may enroll in the LifeLine program, where they may apply for discounts on their cellular or home telephone bills. This program is available in every state, to low-income service users with a household income of 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. The LifeLine Program provides a discount of up to $9.25 a month.

Are there tax grants for homeowners in Colorado?

Although there are no specific tax grants for homeowners, there are cases in which you can get help with your debt to the IRS. Colorado offers property tax relief programs for the permanent residence of qualified homeowners, including senior citizens, people with disabilities, and veterans.

Senior Property Tax Exemption is available to senior citizens age 65 and older, surviving spouses of previously qualified senior citizens, and disabled veterans in Colorado. This exemption includes exempting 50% of the first $200,000.00 in the actual value of the applicant’s primary residence. The State of Colorado pays the exempted portion of the property tax. Once approved, the exemption remains in effect for future years, and the applicant should not re-apply.

Property Tax/Rent/Heat Credit rebate or PTC Rebate is also available to senior citizens age 65 and older, their spouses as well as people with disabilities. The rebates are issued by the Colorado Department of Revenue. Qualified applicants can receive a rebate of up to $600.00 of the property tax and $192.00 of their heating expenses paid during the year.

The Income Tax Credit for Retrofitting Home for Health bill created a state income tax credit of up to $5,000.00 to help people with an illness, impairment or disability retrofit their residence for greater accessibility and independence. The credit is available for retrofits completed in tax years 2019 through 2023.

Colorado also offers a Property Tax Deferral, which allows postponement of tax payments until the applicant sells their property, or the estate is settled after their death. Interest is applied to the amount they defer. Applicant must be a senior who is 65 years old on or before January 1 of this year or a person called into military

The Denver Property Tax Relief Program provides a partial refund of property taxes paid, or the equivalent in rent, to qualifying Denver residents. The Denver Property Tax Relief Program is open to qualifying Denver renters and homeowners who live in Denver county with 60% of Denver’s Area Median Income (AMI). Applicants are also eligible if they turn 65 or older last year, were disabled all of last year, or own their home and have at least one child who lives with them.

http://www.highcountryrsvp.org/

http://www.greeley-weldha.org/Programs/HomeRehabilitationLoans/tabid/3051/Default.aspx

Are there grants for low income homeowners in Colorado?

There is a variety of financial assistance available when it comes to home improvement grants and loans in Colorado. You may be eligible for all kinds of federal, state, county, or city grant programs. Some non-profit organizations and charities also help families in need, giving priority to low-income families with children, seniors, single parents, people with disabilities, and veterans and their families. The eligibility requirements on these funds vary on income, age, type of property, as well as the location of the property.

A Minor Home Repair Program (MHR) is available to low-income homeowners living in Adams County, the City of Brighton, the City of Federal Heights, or the City of Northglenn. These funds may be used in repairs needed to establish a safe, sanitary, accessible, and energy-efficient home. You may use the following link to apply for this program:

http://portal.neighborlysoftware.com/adamscountyco/Participant

The City of Boulder in partnership with the City of Longmont has more Housing Rehabilitation Programs for income-eligible homeowners. Their General Repair Program provides up to $25,000.00 in the form of a deferred loan for repairs such as roofing, plumbing, heating, electrical, and more. The City also offers an Emergency Repair Program that provides grants up to $3,000.00 to correct immediate health and safety issues. There are also an Accessibility Program and a Mobile Home Repair Program.

Colorado Springs also offers Home Repairs Programs, such as the Owner Occupant Rehabilitation Program and the Emergency Repair Program. The Owner Occupant Rehabilitation Program provides funds for income-eligible Colorado Springs homeowners. These funds can be used for repairing or replacing roofs, windows, doors, hot water heaters, furnaces, flooring, plumbing, electrical and more. This City also offers help through its Emergency Repair Program, which can cover the cost of sewer lines, furnaces, boilers, hot water heaters, plumbing, electrical, and glass.

Low-income residents living in Brighton City may use the Minor Home Repairs Program. The program, administered through Adams County, provides grants, technical assistance, and contract management to eligible homeowners. Eligible repairs include furnaces, plumbing, hot water heaters, windows, electrical and roof repair.

Home Rehabilitation Loans are also available in Commerce City from 3.5% to 5.0%. The Housing Authority in this City provides low-interest loans to qualifying homeowners for home repair and improvement projects such as electrical rewiring and plumbing, furnace, and roof repair.

The City of Englewood in Colorado also offers a Home Repair and Improvement Program to provide financial assistance to qualified homeowners for eligible home repairs and improvements. The Program offers a $1,000.00 grant for emergency repairs or an $8,000.00 deferred loan at zero percent for eligible home improvements. To be eligible for the program, the property must be owner-occupied and the homeowner’s income may not exceed 100% of the Area Median Income as determined by HUD each year. Low and moderate-income Englewood homeowners may also use the Energy Efficient Englewood Project which offers grants are up to a maximum of $8,000.00 per household for energy efficiency upgrades as determined by an energy audit.

Help for Homes is a program that helps low and moderate-income homeowners living in Thornton with grants up to $10,000.00. These funds may be used for minor home repairs that address health, safety, accessibility, and energy efficiency-related repairs, including accessibility modifications, plumbing or electrical repairs, roof repairs, and more.

Greely-Weld Housing Authority has a Home Rehabilitation Loan Program which provides Weld County residents with funds for their home improvement projects. The interest rate varies depending on income level from 0-3%. Eligible repairs include leaking roofs, electrical systems, heating systems, plumbing, structural problems, foundation repairs, and more.

http://www.greeley-weldha.org/Programs/HomeRehabilitationLoans/tabid/3051/Default.aspx

http://gvrha.org/sfoor/

What are the easiest homeowner grants to get in Colorado?

The easiest homeowner grants to get are those that have a solid foundation for requesting money, are well-thought-out, have a plan for the future, and are clear and concise in their goals and objectives. To obtain a grant, first, you look for an organization whose goals match what you need to have funded. Second, make sure you meet all the required criteria and you have all the necessary documents. All grants and loans vary by age, income, type of property, and the location of the property. These fundings are primarily available to low-income families, families with children, single parents, senior citizens, people with disabilities, veterans, and their families. Homeowners impacted by natural disasters, such as tornadoes, hurricanes, floods, and earthquakes can also get financial aid for these types of grants.

States, like Colorado, have different programs available to help their low and moderate-income residents. For convenience, search and apply for Colorado home repair grants online. To search or apply for grants, use the free, official website, Grants.gov. If you need such programs to repair your home, do your research about available funds within your city/county and all the documents and eligibility requirements. Contact the HUD office, visit the state’s official site, call 2-1-1 or get in touch with the or Habitat for Humanity or Rebuilding Together in your area.

Keep in mind, there are NO “easy” grants to get. The process until applicants are approved can be long and requires providing a large amount of 100% accurate information. Income limitations are one of the most important factors when applying. There is a reason these funds are only available to people meeting all the required criteria. They are here to help people in need live in homes without code violations and health and safety hazards.