We at Valensi Rose are saddened by the losses suffered by friends, colleagues, clients, and the wider Los Angeles community as a result of the recent wildfires. To assist those affected to move forward, we have compiled a list of some of the resources available to individuals and businesses suffering the impact of this disaster.
There are many additional resources available through federal, state, and local government agencies, as well as through nonprofit and community organizations.
Business Resources
The County of Los Angeles Department of Economic Opportunity lists available disaster grants and loans . It also has resources for workers, including entertainment professionals.
The U.S. Small Business Administration has low-interest disaster loans for businesses and homeowners, including loans to cover repairs and replacement of structures and other assets, operating expenses and mitigation of future damage.
The Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce has announced a Small Business Disaster Recovery Fund that is expected to provide grants to small businesses as well as disaster recovery webinars for businesses.
Insurance and Homeowner Resources
The California Department of Insurance has information for insureds, including a Top Ten Tips for Wildfire Claimants and a Residential Property Claims Guide. It also has warnings about common scams after a disaster.
FEMA provides assistance for basic home repairs upon approval of an application by a homeowner or occupant.
The SEC has issued an alert about fraud with respect to wildfire claims and investment solicitations.
Taxes
The Internal Revenue Service has programs in place to assist individuals and businesses affected by the wildfires, including an extension of reporting and tax payments. The IRS also provides for disaster relief by permitting withdrawal without penalty of up to $22,000 from retirement plans.
The California Department of Tax and Fee Administration provides for emergency tax relief for taxpayers directly affected by the wildfires, including extensions on sales tax reporting.
The California Employment Development Department has information on extending state payroll reports and deposits by California employers directly affected by the wildfires.
Homeowners and business owners in Los Angeles County can apply (through the Los Angeles County Assessor) for an adjustment to the assessed value as a result of property damage that resulted from the wildfires and for a deferral of current year property tax payments.
Valensi Rose, PLC hopes this list will provide helpful information. Please do not hesitate to reach out to our lawyers if you have specific questions about your situation. For advice/assistance in dealing with your home lender, contact Bob Weiss for information at 310-601-7010 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.).