FEMA Extends Wildfire Aid Application Deadline For LA County Residents

Federal officials have extended the deadline for Los Angeles County residents affected by January’s wildfires to apply for disaster assistance, providing additional time for homeowners and renters to secure financial help for uninsured losses.

At Governor Gavin Newsom’s request, FEMA announced on Friday it officially had extended the application deadline from March 10 to March 31, 2025.

The extension applies to homeowners and renters who suffered uninsured or underinsured property damage from the wildfires. FEMA’s assistance can cover multiple needs including rental assistance, temporary housing, home repairs, and personal property losses not covered by insurance.

Officials emphasized that FEMA grants do not require repayment and are nontaxable. The assistance will not affect eligibility for Social Security, Medicaid or other federal benefits.

Survivors should file insurance claims for damage to homes, personal property and vehicles before applying for FEMA assistance, as the program cannot duplicate insurance benefits or other assistance sources.

The deadline extension also applies to Disaster Unemployment Assistance, which has been extended until March 31. This program specifically serves workers who aren’t eligible for regular unemployment benefits, such as self-employed individuals who lost jobs or had hours reduced because of the wildfires.

To apply with FEMA:

•  Go online at DisasterAssistance.gov (fastest option);
• Use the FEMA App (available at the Apple App Store or Google Play);
• Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362.  If you use a relay service, such as Video Relay Service (VRS), captioned telephone, or other service, give FEMA your number for that service.
• Visit a Disaster Recovery Center. For locations: DRCLocator.

Disaster Recovery Centers are physically accessible to people with disabilities and others with access and functional needs. They are equipped with assistive technology and other resources to help ensure all applicants can access resources.