Here’s a list of some of the resources available to wildfire victims in Southern California.
- US Small Business Administration – Disaster Relief Loans for Home and Personal Property
- Help for Renters
- Meal Distribution Sites
- Mortgage Assistance
- Property Tax Relief – Proposition 19 tax basis transfer
US Small Business Administration – Disaster Relief Loans for Home and Personal Property
The US Small Business Administration (SBA) has established Disaster Loan Outreach Centers in Southern California. Homeowners and renters can apply for home and personal property loans. Homeowners can borrow up to $500,000 to repair or replace primary residences. Homeowners and renters can borrow up to $100,000 to repair or replace personal property, such as cars, clothing, furniture, and appliances. Interest rates start at 2.563%, with terms up to 30 years, and interest accruing after the first 12 months.
To apply, make an appointment at one of the Disaster Loan Outreach Centers, or apply online at sba.gov/disaster.
With FEMA’s updated Sequence of Delivery, you should also apply simultaneously for FEMA grants, which cover immediate needs not covered by insurance. More information is available at fema.gov/grants.
Help for Renters
There are a number of program to help renters who have been displaced by wildfires:
- 211A is in partnership with Airbnb, American Express, and Hilton to provide free emergency housing.
- RentalBeast will waive application fees for wildfire victims. Just email support@rentalbeast.com to request a refund.
- Rentspree will also refund application fees. Email support@rentspree.com after submitting your application.
- The Apartment Association of Greater Los Angeles has a database of available apartments for wildfire victims.
- The Hotel Association of Los Angeles has a list of hotels offering reduced rates for displaced individuals.
- Emergency shelters are available at Red Cross service sites, FEMA shelters, and this list by the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services.
- Here’s a guide from FNMA for renters dealing with a natural disaster.
- Price gouging is illegal. No one can raise rents over 10% during a natural disaster. Read more here.
- Finally, read this FAQ article for renters.
Meal Distribution Sites
World Central Kitchen has a list of meal distribution sites.
Mortgage Assistance
Homeowners who lost their homes in Los Angeles wildfires may qualify for mortgage relief. This assistance is for Los Angeles residents in the 90019, 90041, 90049, 90066, 90265, 90272, 90290, 91001, 91104, 91106, 91107 or 93536 ZIP codes.
Nearly 270 state-chartered banks, credit unions and other financial companies have offered 90-day forbearance on mortgage payments, no negative credit reporting of late payments, no new foreclosures or evictions for at least 60 days, and no balloon mortgage payments due at the end.
In addition, Governor Newson has postponed the state tax filing to October 15 for Los Angeles County residents. Property tax filing is also extended to April 2026. Homeowners may apply to the Los Angeles County Tax Collector for deferrals up to four years.
Property Tax Relief – Proposition 19 tax basis transfer
Keep in mind that if you lost your home in a natural disaster, you qualify for tax basis transfer with Proposition 19. Check the Los Angeles Treasurer’s website regarding Proposition 19, and you can also read my article about Proposition 19.
My heart goes out to everyone affected by these wildfires. Please contact me if you need any help in North San Diego County.
