Resources and Helpful Guidance: The Wildfires in Los Angeles

In the wake of the wildfires, knowing where to turn for help can make all the difference. From tax relief options to rebuilding resources, here’s what you need to know.

Wildfires have become a too-familiar challenge for Los Angeles residents, leaving devastation and uncertainty in their wake. Whether you’re facing the loss of a home, looking for ways to rebuild, or simply wanting to support your community through volunteering, finding reliable resources can feel overwhelming.

This guide is here to help. From tax relief options that ease financial strain to rebuilding programs and volunteer opportunities, it covers the tools and support available to help you move forward. Whether you’re directly impacted or looking to lend a hand, read on for actionable information to navigate the road to recovery.

What Is Proposition 19, and Why Does It Matter?

If you’re a homeowner in California, navigating property taxes can feel overwhelming — especially when life throws unexpected challenges your way. Proposition 19 and Form ADS-820 might sound like complicated legalese, but they offer potential tax benefits that could ease your financial burden. Whether you’re dealing with a calamity like wildfire, earthquake, or flooding or simply planning your next move, understanding these tools can save you money and stress.

Proposition 19 (the Home Protection for Seniors, Severely Disabled, Families and Victims of Wildfire or Natural Disasters Act) was passed in November 2020 and made significant changes to California’s property tax rules. 

At its core, Prop 19 focuses on two main areas: helping homeowners who are transferring their primary residence and offering relief to those impacted by natural disasters.

One of the most notable benefits is the ability to transfer your property tax base when you move within California. For example, if you’ve owned your home for years, you’re probably benefiting from lower property taxes due to Proposition 13 protections. When you move, property taxes are typically reassessed based on the home’s current market value, which can result in a significant increase. Under Prop 19, however, qualifying homeowners can transfer their existing tax base to their new property, helping them avoid that tax hike.

Who Qualifies for Prop 19 Benefits?

Prop 19 is specifically designed for groups who might need tax relief the most. If you fall into one of these categories, you could be eligible:

• Seniors aged 55 or older: You can transfer your lower tax base to a new home up to three times in your lifetime (or once per natural disaster).

• Homeowners with severe disabilities: If your current home no longer meets your needs, this transfer can make moving more affordable.

• Victims of natural disasters: If your home is damaged or destroyed by a natural disaster, Prop 19 allows you to transfer your tax base to a replacement property of equal or lesser value.

• Heirs inheriting property: Children or grandchildren who inherit property may retain the lower property tax base of their parents or grandparents if they make the home their principal residence within one year.

Prop 19: After a Natural Disaster

Prop 19 is important for California homeowners recovering from wildfires, earthquakes, or landslides, offering a lifeline when rebuilding feels overwhelming. After such disasters, the last thing you want is the added financial strain of skyrocketing property taxes on a new residence. 

Prop 19 allows you to transfer your property tax base to a replacement home, whether in the same county or another county in California. This benefit can significantly ease the burden, letting you focus on recovering and rebuilding your life without worrying about unaffordable tax increases. In this way, Prop 19 is more than a policy — it’s a safety net when you need it most.

How Does Form ADS-820 Tie In?

Form ADS-820 — also known as the Application for Reassessment: Property Damaged or Destroyed by Misfortune or Calamity (M&C) Form — is also critical in the wake of property damage or loss. This form specifically deals with property damage due to natural disasters and allows you to claim tax deductions.

When a disaster strikes, your first priority is safety and recovery. However, the financial aftermath can be devastating. Filing Form ADS-820 can help you recover some of those losses by reducing your taxable income.

If your property has experienced damage from a wildfire, flood, earthquake, or other qualifying calamity, this form is your opportunity to claim deductions for unreimbursed losses. If your property has been damaged or destroyed and the loss is $10,000 or more in current market value, you may qualify for reassessment. Make sure to file ADS-820 within 12 months from the date of the damage.

This form is designed to address the following types of property loss:

• Home damage: Repairs or rebuilding costs not covered by insurance.

• Personal property loss: Furniture, clothing, and other belongings destroyed in a disaster.

• Landscaping and exterior damage: Losses to trees, plants, and outdoor structures.

To file, you’ll need to calculate your losses, subtract any insurance payouts, and provide documentation of the damage. The financial relief can make a significant difference as you rebuild and start the next chapter. 

These tools are designed to make life easier during difficult times, but the key is understanding how they work and taking action. If you’re unsure where to start, reach out to your county assessor’s office or a qualified tax professional. 

Additional Resources

The Decline in Value Review Form: RP-87

The Decline in Value Review Form: RP-87 offers property owners a recourse when the current market value of their property falls below its assessed value as of January 1st. Eligible property owners can request a decline-in-value review between July 2nd and November 30th each year. This review provides an opportunity to potentially lower property taxes based on current market conditions, ensuring assessments accurately reflect property values.

Supplying Aid to Victims of Emergency (SAVE)

The aftermath of a fire is devastating, and for survivors, there is an overwhelming uncertainty of what comes next. The California Fire Foundation’s Supplying Aid to Victims of Emergency (SAVE) program steps in to offer support when it’s needed most.

The program provides $250 SAVE cards to eligible survivors of fires and natural disasters, distributed by firefighters on the scene. These cards are a lifeline, enabling survivors to purchase essential items like food, clothing, medication, or temporary shelter. The SAVE program bridges the gap between immediate disaster relief and the longer-term recovery process, offering tangible help and a message of hope.

Participating fire departments across California administer the program directly, providing SAVE cards to survivors on-site. Remarkably, this program comes at no cost to the departments or districts involved. The California Fire Foundation supplies all necessary training and resources.

FEMA Recovery Tips for California Wildfire Survivors

As wildfires continue to impact Southern California, FEMA provides resources and financial assistance to help survivors rebuild their lives. If your home was damaged or destroyed in the fires, you may qualify for FEMA assistance — even if you have insurance. 

FEMA Assistance: What You Need to Know

FEMA is providing crucial support to those affected, including individuals with and without insurance. If your primary home has been damaged, FEMA may be able to assist with essential costs like temporary housing, personal property replacement, basic home repairs, and emergency supplies, such as food and water. 

There are several ways to start your FEMA application:

• Online: Visit DisasterAssistance.gov or DisasterAssistance.gov/es.

• By Phone: Call the FEMA Helpline at 1-800-621-3362.

• FEMA Mobile App: Download the app on your mobile device for easy access.

Replacing Lost Documents

If you’ve lost critical documents like IDs, property deeds, or birth certificates, visit ca.gov for a directory of California state departments to request replacements. Having these documents is crucial when applying for assistance.

When applying for FEMA disaster assistance, you’ll need:

• Names of all household members at the time of the fires.

• Your Social Security number (and your child’s, if applicable).

• Household income details.

• Contact information.

• A summary of property damage and emergency needs.

Clean Up Safely

Once authorized, as you return to your property, it’s critical to prioritize safety. Only enter after local authorities have declared the area safe. Be cautious around hot ash, smoldering debris, and other hazards.

Here are some tips to stay safe:

• Wear protective clothing, including long sleeves, long pants, work gloves, and thick-soled shoes.

• Use a respirator to limit exposure to harmful particles.

• Individuals with respiratory conditions like asthma or COPD should take extra precautions.

• Wet debris to reduce dust and ash in the air.

The road to recovery after a wildfire is never easy, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. FEMA and other organizations are here to support you through the process, offering financial assistance, emotional support, and practical guidance. 

The Federal Response to Support Those Affected by the L.A. Fires

The Biden-Harris Administration is actively supporting California's response to the devastating wildfires affecting Los Angeles and surrounding communities. Under President Biden’s leadership, federal resources are being rapidly deployed to assist state and local efforts, providing life-saving and recovery support.

Coordinated Federal Response Efforts

President Biden has approved a Major Disaster Declaration for California, unlocking critical funds and resources for affected communities. This declaration allows survivors to access financial aid and recovery programs immediately. 

Fire Suppression Support

To bolster firefighting efforts, the federal government has mobilized extensive fire suppression resources, including large air tankers, federal helicopters, fire engines, modular air firefighting system units, and additional military support. These actions ensure that state and local firefighters have the tools they need to combat the fires effectively.

Providing Vital Data and Resources

The National Weather Service (NWS) has been instrumental in supporting firefighting efforts by delivering accurate, timely weather forecasts. NWS teams have been embedded with emergency operations centers, offering real-time meteorological support to help firefighters plan operations.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is standing by to assess air quality and provide additional environmental support, ensuring communities stay informed about health risks from smoke and other pollutants.

Fire Management Assistance Grants (FMAGs)

In response to the Palisades Fire in Los Angeles County, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) authorized federal funds to assist California in combating the blaze. This approval came on January 7, 2025. 

Fire Management Assistance Grants (FMAGs) provide critical federal funding, covering up to 75% of eligible firefighting costs. These grants help alleviate the financial burden on local and state resources by covering expenses like field camps, equipment use, materials, supplies, and mobilization efforts. 

Designed to address fires with the potential to escalate into major disasters, FMAGs are an essential resource for fire management. For more information about FMAGs and their role in disaster relief, visit fema.gov/assistance/public/fire-management-assistance. 

Emergency Shelters, Immediate Support, and Housing Options

If you’ve been displaced by the wildfires, finding shelter and support is critical. Here’s a roundup of important resources to help you secure temporary housing, essential services, and financial relief.

Temporary Housing Options

• 211 LA and Airbnb Partnership: 211 LA and Airbnb offer free temporary shelter for those displaced by fire. Begin the process by completing this form.

• Red Cross Los Angeles: Check their website for updated information on shelters in your area.

• Local Hotels: A list of hotels in and around Los Angeles with available space and discounts for fire victims can be found here.

• YMCA of Metropolitan Los Angeles: Several locations are open to provide temporary shelter, showers, and amenities. They’re also offering childcare services in partnership with the Los Angeles Unified School District. Learn more and register here.

• Planet Fitness: Affected individuals, including first responders, can use facilities for free. Services include showers, locker rooms, WiFi, and massage chairs. Contact your nearest location for details.

Other Housing Opportunities

• Mariners Village Apartment Homes: Temporary housing is available for those impacted. Call (310) 821-4916 for details.

• Alisal Ranch in Solvang: Offers discounted rates and welcomes household pets. Call 800-425-4725 or visit their website.

• Coachella Valley and Santa Monica Hotels: Various properties are providing discounted rates for evacuees. Contact hotels directly for availability and special offers.

Transportation and Communication

• Uber and Lyft: Both companies are providing free rides to evacuation sites. Use the codes CAFIRERELIEF25 for Lyft (up to $25 each) and WILDFIRE25 for Uber (up to $40 each).

• Metro: Metro fares are free for evacuees.

• AT&T and T-Mobile Telecommunications Support: AT&T and T-Mobile are offering unlimited talk, text, and data in affected areas.

Donations and Volunteering

Many organizations are working to support fire victims. Consider contributing to:

• California Fire Foundation Wildfire & Disaster Relief Fund: Works in partnership with communities and fire agencies. Donate here.

• World Central Kitchen: Provides meals to first responders and evacuees. Donate here.

• California Community Foundation: Focuses on assisting underserved communities in Los Angeles County by providing long-term recovery relief. Learn more and donate.

• CAL FIRE Benevolent Foundation: Provides financial aid to firefighters and their families in cases of injury or loss of life and supports burn victims and firefighter health research. Donate here.

• California Fire Foundation: As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, the California Fire Foundation supports families of fallen firefighters, active firefighters, and disaster victims. Donate here.

• Dream Center: A Los Angeles-based charity offering emergency shelter to those displaced. Donate here.

• American Red Cross Wildfire Relief Fund: Offers extensive wildfire relief services, from financial aid to temporary housing support. Donate here.

By supporting these organizations, you can play a vital role in helping wildfire survivors recover and rebuild their lives. Whether through a donation or volunteering your time, every effort makes a meaningful impact.

In the end, utilizing these resources can help you navigate the aftermath of a disaster and move forward with recovery. If you’re able, reach out to these organizations for support or to offer assistance.

Connect with the experts at Consumer’s Title Company for trusted guidance through your real estate endeavors in California, and check out this site for more information.

Disclaimer: Please note that this content is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.