California wildfires: How homeowners can receive financial help
LOS ANGELES - Property owners whose homes or buildings were damaged or destroyed by this week's extreme windstorms and wildfires may qualify for temporary tax relief, L.A. County officials announced Wednesday.
Under the Misfortune and Calamity Property Tax Relief program, property owners can receive temporary tax relief with adjustments made to reflect the reduced value of the property until repairs or rebuilding are completed, according to the County Assessor's Office.
The damage must exceed $10,000 in the current market value of the property, and claims must be filed within 12 months of the date of the damage.
To download claim form ADS-820, or obtain more information, property owners can visit assessor.lacounty.gov/tax-relief/disaster-relief, or call 213- 974-3211.
"Our hearts are with everyone impacted by this disaster. The Assessor's Office is here to help and we remain committed to providing the resources and support those in need. Please do not hesitate to contact us with any questions," County Assessor Jeff Prang said in a statement.
"Together, we will overcome these challenges and work toward rebuilding stronger, more resilient communities," he added.
The Assessor's Office has ceased all in-person operations at their sites through the end of the week to ensure the safety of employees and county residents. Services can be accessed online at assessor.lacounty.gov.
Prang said staff will be present at local assistance centers established by the county, which will provide guidance and resources to property owners. The office will also work to expedite Misfortune and Calamity claims for property tax relief.
Meanwhile the California Department of Insurance has shared tips for evacuees. Residents under mandatory evacuation because of wildfires could be eligible for evacuation-related expense reimbursement under their current insurance policy.
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State officials remind Southern California residents to obtain a complete copy of their insurance policy, take note of additional living expense limits, track all additional expenses and document all conversations with their insurer/adjuster.
Additional living expenses coverage typically includes food and housing costs, furniture rental, relocation and storage and extra transportation expenses, among other costs.
The department encourages those impacted by the fire not to rush into any decision and to call them at 800-927-4357 for assistance. More information is available at insurance.ca.gov.