Disaster Recovery

When an earthquake, wildfire or flood can affect Californians like you. Should the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) declare a disaster in your area, you may be eligible for certain tax and other benefits. Regardless, it is a good idea to be prepared for a disaster beforehand. Following are various resources that can help you learn how to minimize the financial impact of a disaster.

Disaster Recovery Documents

Community Assisting Recovery, a Southern California-based nonprofit, provides documents and information that you can download at no cost. You’ll find guidance on how to take care of issues such as inventorying your personal property and filing an insurance claim.

How to Claim a State Tax Deduction

If you had a casualty loss from a disaster that occurred in an area declared a disaster by the president of the United States, you may be able to claim a deduction on your California tax return.

Disaster/Casualty Loss Tax Practice Guide

This is available from the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) to members of that organization.

Disaster Tax Tips: Roadmap of Changes to Tax Code

These disaster-related tax tips can help reduce burdens on disaster victims—and ensure that the CPAs advising them achieve the desired tax results.
Sifting Through the Rubble: Disaster Losses & Gains
This guide details Sec. 1033, PLRs and Revenue Rulings.

Disaster Resources from the Red Cross

The American Red Cross provides information on shelter locations, affected areas and disaster safety. The Red Cross hotline is (866) 438-4636. You can register online for services from your local Red Cross Chapter.