Although wildfires are not a completely foreign concept to California, the recent wildfires have caused widespread devastation and destruction. Countless people have lost their homes, jobs, and possessions. Alongside the immediate danger and heartache, survivors are often confronted with serious financial difficulties.

With the major fires now fully contained, thanks to the tireless efforts of firefighters and emergency responders, communities can begin the process of healing and rebuilding. However, rebuilding after such a devastating loss can be incredibly difficult. Besides challenges like hazardous debris cleanup, expenses for temporary housing, necessary supplies, and reconstruction can quickly accumulate, leading to immense financial stress. This can be accompanied by insurance claims, which we will explore more throughout this guide.

If you’re not sure where to begin, don’t worry. We’ve put together a guide to help you work through the stress and connect you with resources. Read on for a brief California Wildfire recovery guide. 

The immediate steps 

If you, or someone you know is struggling, make sure you take these three steps at the soonest. 

Get to safety 

If your home is unsafe or destroyed, the top priority is securing a safe place to stay. You can:  

• Contact local emergency services for help 

• Reach out to a nonprofit group or an aid center for the basics 

• Visit the Find Shelter website for additional help 

Find your important documents  

If it’s safe and possible, locate key paperwork such as IDs, insurance policies, financial records, and medical information.

For those whose homes weren’t affected, make sure to have all these documents centralized in a fireproof place and saved as soft copies online in case of any emergencies. 

Record all the damage 

While this is tough, it’s a necessary step for any further action. Record all damage in full detail by taking photos and videos of everything inside and outside your home. This meticulous documentation will help with claims, federal aid, or tax deductions for losses. 

The next steps 

Recovering from a wildfire can feel overwhelming, but please remember—you are not alone. We see you, we hear you, and we’re here to support you. Take it one step at a time, and don’t forget to prioritize your mental health and well-being as you move forward. 

When you’re ready, here are some steps to guide you through this process: 

Tap into community resources 

There are organizations ready to lend a hand during this challenging time. The Los Angeles Regional Food Bank, CalFresh Program, and Midwest Food Bank offer food and other essential support. Visit their websites to apply for assistance. 

Additionally, nonprofits like The American Red Cross, the Salvation Army, and various local community groups provide post-disaster aid. If you’re looking to donate, volunteer, or need to find more specific information for yourself or a loved one, the Mutual Aid LA Network has compiled a massive database for use. 

Look at federal programs 

Registering with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is essential for receiving grants for housing, repairs, or other needs. FEMA can provide access to grants for essential needs, home repairs, and other help (i.e.: Support for childcare, transportation, and more). 

Additionally, California residents affected by recent wildfires may be eligible for a one-time $770 payment from the federal government.

To register, visit DisasterAssistance.gov, call 1-800-621-FEMA (3362), or download the FEMA mobile app. 

Seek tax relief 

The IRS has announced tax relief for individuals and businesses in Southern California affected by wildfires and straight-line winds that began Jan. 7, 2025. These efforts are being pushed out along the above to ease financial strain during the recovery process. 

Request mortgage payment relief 

If you’re a homeowner, there are five major banks offering up to three months of mortgage payment relief. Contact your mortgage provider to explore this option and determine eligibility. 

Use wildfire-tracking apps 

Keep an eye on your loved ones who are a bit further out with the Watch Duty Wildfire app. This is generally more accurate than consistently googling “US wildfire map,” “US fire map,” “California wildfire map,” and the like. 

Consider debt relief 

If the aftermath and recovery process resulted in incurring debt, you can look towards debt relief programs. In times of strife, debt resolution is a viable option for regaining control of your finances. 

Insurance-related steps 

Insurance can be a lifesaver during crises like this, but sometimes policies fall short and don’t cover enough to rebuild completely. In some cases, specific policies may even exclude natural disasters such as wildfires. Here’s what to do to avoid unpleasant surprises. 

Review your coverage 

1. Examine your policy from A to Z 

Go over your insurance coverage to understand what’s included. Focus on sections about natural disasters (specifically wildfire damage) and exclusions. Take notes on anything you need to be clarified.

1. Contact your insurance provider  

Reach out to your insurance provider to report the damage, ask about the claim process, and request further clarification about your policy after reviewing it. Keep detailed records of these interactions, including dates, times, and the names of representatives you speak with. 

At this point, follow your insurance provider’s process for filing a wildfire claim. This can go one of two ways: 1) It work,s and you’re in good hands; 2) Your claim is denied or falls short. 

If your insurance claim is denied  

While in dire times, we’d hope the worst-case scenario doesn’t happen. It’s entirely possible that your claim is denied or isn’t enough. If that happens:  

• Review the denial and request a written explanation 

• File an appeal with all documentation you have 

• Consult a public adjuster or insurance-focused attorney 

Note: A public adjuster is an individual who will evaluate your property damage and determine a fair payout amount based on your insurance coverage. You can learn more about what getting a public adjuster entails here. 

Moving forward together 

These financial and livelihood avenues can be incredibly helpful, but it’s important to prioritize mental health and be patient. Take time for self-care, talk to friends and family, or join support groups. And remember, rebuilding takes time—celebrate small wins along the way to keep up morale.

The aftermath of a wildfire is overwhelming, but there are resources to help. No matter where you start, every step moves you closer to recovery. You can rebuild with resilience and hope by taking action and staying informed.

–

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as legal, financial, or professional advice. Clarity Debt Resolution Inc. (“Clarity”) does not guarantee any specific outcomes, and results may vary based on individual circumstances. Clarity complies with all applicable laws, including the California Debt Settlement Services Act, and recommends consulting with an attorney or financial advisor before making any financial decisions. Clarity is not responsible for the accuracy of external links or content, and all website content is protected by copyright laws. We reserve the right to update or remove content at any time without notice.