1. Small Business Administration (SBA) Disaster Loans

The Small Business Administration (SBA) has activated its disaster assistance program to support businesses impacted by the fires. If your business has suffered physical damage or income loss, the SBA can offer financial relief through two primary loan options:

• Physical Disaster Loans: Low-interest loans that can be used to repair or replace business property, including real estate, machinery, equipment, and inventory damaged or destroyed in the fire.
• Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL): These loans provide working capital for businesses that are unable to meet their financial obligations due to the disaster. They cover expenses like rent, utilities, and payroll.

For more information or to apply, visit the SBA's official website:

www.sba.gov/funding-programs/disaster-assistance/california-wildfires

2. California State Assistance Programs

California’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) has been actively engaged in supporting businesses. This includes assistance for immediate disaster relief and recovery efforts. The state may provide funding or grants for businesses in distress, depending on the needs and specific circumstances of the disaster.

To learn about state-managed resources, visit the California Office of Emergency Services at:

www.caloes.ca.gov/

3. Local Assistance and Disaster Recovery Centers

Los Angeles County is providing support to businesses through Disaster Recovery Centers, which are offering information about available federal and state assistance, as well as guidance on the rebuilding process. While the specifics are still being finalized, these centers aim to provide help in accessing both financial and logistical support.

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

www.laedc.org/2025-wildfire-assistance/

4. IRS Tax Relief

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has offered tax relief to businesses impacted by the wildfires. Specific measures include:

• Extension of Tax Filing Deadlines: Businesses affected by the disaster may qualify for an extension on federal tax filing deadlines.
• Penalties Relief: Businesses may be eligible for relief from penalties due to the inability to meet tax deadlines because of the fire damage.

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

www.irs.gov/newsroom/irs-california-wildfire-victims-qualify-for-tax-relief-various-deadlines-postponed-to-oct-15

5. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Disaster Assistance

While FEMA primarily focuses on public infrastructure, businesses may receive help in certain circumstances. Specifically, FEMA can provide assistance for repairs to public utilities or infrastructure, which may indirectly benefit businesses in these affected areas.

For more information, visit FEMA's official website:

www.fema.gov/disaster/4856

What’s Next for Business Recovery?

Based on past recovery efforts from similar disasters, businesses can expect additional forms of support in the near future:

State and Local Economic Recovery Initiatives: While not confirmed yet for these specific fires, historical precedents suggest that local governments may offer additional recovery programs, including grants, permits, and infrastructure rebuilding assistance.

Tax Relief Extensions: Both federal and state tax relief measures have been extended after similar incidents. Businesses can generally expect extended tax filing deadlines, but the specifics will vary by agency and situation.

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.