How can I get help?
Individual assistance available through FEMA
Three ways to register for FEMA Assistance:
- Online at DisasterAssistance.gov. Applying online is the easiest, fastest, and most convenient way to apply.
- On the FEMA App for mobile devices.
- Call the FEMA helpline at 1-800-621-3362: 4 a.m. to 10 p.m. (PST). Help is available in most languages.
- To watch an accessible video about how to apply, visit FEMA Accessible: Registering for Individual Assistance - YouTube
- Information on citizenship and immigration status requirements is available.
- Assistance for small businesses available through the federal Small Business Administration (SBA).
- Visit Disaster Recovery Centers for help with federal aid applications, housing and rental support, and access to services. Stay tuned for additional information and for specific locations.
- If you lost your job due to the fires, apply for benefits through the State of California.
- A real-time list of open shelters is available at CalOES.
What is Individual Assistance?
Individual Assistance consists of multiple federal programs to help disaster survivors start to recover. These programs include, but are not limited to:
- Advanced Financial Assistance
- Housing
- Rental Assistance
- Funds for Repair / Replacement of Damaged Homes
- Disaster Legal Services
- Disaster Unemployment Assistance
- Other Needs Assistance
How do I file an insurance claim?
Consumer alert: California prevents insurance companies from canceling or not renewing home insurance policies for those impacted by the Los Angeles fires. Learn more from insurance.ca.gov.
Visit Resources to Help Recent Wildfire Victims (California Department of Insurance) for multi-lingual tips on preparing for an insurance claim. Another helpful resource is Top Ten Tips for Wildfire Claimants. Those looking for in-person assistance can attend insurance workshops the weekends of January 18 and January 25.
How can I stay informed?
- Sign up for evacuation notices and critical updates for LA County: Ready LA
- Tips for evacuating safely: Evacuation Guide
- Real-time information and safety tips: Cal OES News | Ready.ca.gov
- Monitor ongoing fires: fire.ca.gov
- Get real-time air quality updates: Air Quality Monitoring (South Coast AQMD)
- Information on power shutoffs: Stay Updated on Public Safety Power Shutoffs
- Real-time traffic maps: CalTrans Traffic Alert/Map
- Information on consumer protections against price gouging: Office of the Attorney General
- Follow LA County Public Safety Partners on Social Media
- LA Office of Emergency Management on X (formerly Twitter): @ReadyLACounty | on Instagram:@lausd_oem
- LA County Fire on X: @LACoFDPIO | on Instagram: @LAacountyfd
- LA County Sheriff on X: @LASDHQ | on Instagram: @LASDHQ
- LA County on X: @CountyofLA | on Instagram: @CountyofLA
- Follow San Bernardino (SB) County Safety Partners
- SB County Fire on X: @SBCOUNTYFIRE | on Instagram: @SBCOUNTYFIRE
- SB County on X: @SBCounty | on Instagram: @SBCounty
How can I help?
Those looking to volunteer their time or donate money to support those impacted by the Los Angeles fires should rely on trusted sources and beware of scams.
- Find volunteer opportunities: California Volunteers
- List of safe ways to donate: Philanthropy California