1. Small Business Administration (SBA) Disaster Loans

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) offers disaster loans for businesses in wildfire-affected areas:

• Physical Disaster Loans: Up to $2 million for businesses, non-profits, homeowners, and renters to repair or replace disaster-damaged property.
• Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL): Up to $2 million in working capital for businesses experiencing financial hardship due to the wildfires.

To apply, visit SBA’s Disaster Loan Assistance page at

https://www.sba.gov/funding-programs/disaster-assistance

2. California State Assistance Programs

The California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) and the Department of Financial Protection and Innovation (DFPI) provide relief options such as:

• State Grants & Loans: Emergency funding for businesses impacted by the Pacific Palisades, Eaton, Sunset, Kenneth, and Hurst Fires.
• Mortgage & Rent Relief: Assistance for commercial property owners and tenants facing financial hardship.
• Insurance & Fraud Protection: Guidance on filing claims and avoiding scams.

For details, visit Cal OES at https://www.caloes.ca.gov/ or DFPI at https://dfpi.ca.gov/.

3. Local Assistance and Disaster Recovery Centers

Los Angeles County and surrounding wildfire-affected areas have Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs) to assist businesses with loan applications, insurance claims, and rebuilding permits.

For local information and resources, visit the Los Angeles County Economic Development Corporation (LAEDC) at:

https://dcba.lacounty.gov/

4. IRS Tax Relief

Businesses impacted by the Pacific Palisades, Eaton, Sunset, Kenneth, and Hurst Fires may qualify for tax relief:

• Deferred Tax Deadlines: The IRS extends filing and payment deadlines for businesses in federally declared disaster zones.
• Casualty Loss Deductions: Fire-related losses may be deductible on federal tax returns.
• State Tax Relief Programs: The California Franchise Tax Board (FTB) may offer extensions and penalty waivers.

For more information, visit the IRS's official website:

https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/tax-relief-in-disaster-situations

5. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Disaster Assistance

While FEMA mainly provides aid to homeowners and renters, some business-related assistance is available, including referrals to financial recovery programs.

For more information, visit FEMA's official website:

https://www.disasterassistance.gov/

6. Private & Non-Profit Assistance Programs

Several organizations offer financial support for businesses affected by these wildfires:

• Jewish Free Loan Association (JFLA): Zero-interest loans for small businesses in crisis.
• Red Cross & Community Foundations: Emergency grants for business recovery expenses.

Check with your local business chamber or industry association for additional resources.

What’s Next for Business Recovery?

If your business was affected by the Pacific Palisades, Eaton, Sunset, Kenneth, or Hurst Fires, follow these steps:

1. Document All Damages: Take photos, save receipts, and keep detailed records for insurance and loan applications.

2. Contact Your Insurance Provider: File claims as soon as possible and seek guidance on coverage.

3. Apply for Assistance: Utilize SBA, FEMA, and state resources to secure financial support.

4. Seek Professional Guidance: Consult a financial advisor or legal expert to explore recovery options.

Rebuilding after a wildfire is challenging, but financial aid and support resources are available to help you navigate the process.

What You Can Do Now

Apply for SBA Loans: If your business has been directly impacted, apply for the SBA’s Disaster Loans to help with both physical damage and economic injury.

Visit Disaster Recovery Centers: Use the local recovery centers to learn more about applying for financial assistance and rebuilding resources.

Consult with FEMA and State Agencies: Check FEMA and state agency websites for updates on potential assistance for business infrastructure.

Contact the IRS: If your business has been affected by the fires, contact the IRS to explore available tax relief measures.

Rebuilding will take time, but these financial resources are in place to help you move forward. We understand the pain and hardship you’re facing, and we are here to help guide you through the recovery process, step by step.