How to File a FEMA Claim After the Palisades Wildfire

In the wake of the Palisades wildfire, those who have had to evacuate may be left wondering where to even start with rebuilding their lives, homes, and livelihoods. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is offering aid intended to help those recovering. Those affected may receive assistance through the following steps:

1. File and insurance claim.
2. Gather necessary information.
3. Apply for FEMA assistance.
4. Provide documentation.
5. Schedule and inspection (if needed).
6. Track your application.
7. Receive assistance.

While the impact of the Palisades wildfire is devastating, and many losses may be unrecoverable, following these steps can help put those affected on the path to rebuild.

Step 1: File an Insurance Claim

If you have insurance, this is your first step. Contact your insurance company and file a claim for any damages or losses. FEMA’s assistance is meant to cover what insurance doesn’t, so you’ll need to show you’ve already gone through your insurance first. 

Step 2: Gather Necessary Information

Before you apply for FEMA assistance, take a little time to get organized. You’ll need to provide:

• Your Social Security number
• Insurance details, including policy numbers and claim information
• Proof of identity, like a driver’s license or ID
• Documentation of damages: photos, videos, or descriptions of the property

Step 3: Apply for FEMA Assistance

There are a few ways to apply for FEMA aid, so pick what works best for you:

• Online at disasterassistance.gov
• FEMA Mobile App on your smartphone or tablet
• Phone: Call the FEMA helpline at 1-800-621-3362

Step 4: Provide Documentation

Once you’ve applied, FEMA may ask for more information to process your claim. This could include:

• Photos or videos showing the damage to your home or belongings.
• Receipts for emergency purchases, like temporary lodging or supplies.
• Any other paperwork that helps demonstrate your need for assistance.

The more thorough you are, the easier it will be for FEMA to process your claim quickly.

Step 5: Schedule an Inspection (if needed)

In some cases, FEMA might need to inspect your property to assess the damage for themselves. If an inspection is needed, a representative will reach out to you to set up a time. Be sure to answer their calls or messages promptly to avoid delays.

Step 6: Track Your Application

After you have applied, keep an eye on the status of your claim. You can check progress:

• Online through the FEMA website
• Using the FEMA mobile app
• By calling the helpline for updates

Step 7: Receive Assistance

Once your claim is approved, FEMA will provide funds to cover eligible expenses. These might include:

• Essential items like food, water, or medication
• Temporary housing costs, such as hotel stays
• Repairs to make your home safe and livable again

When you receive the funds, be sure to use them as intended to help with your recovery. This support is meant to give you a fresh start after such a challenging time.

Consider Contacting an Experienced Wildfire Attorney

You shouldn’t need an attorney for your insurance claim. However, there are 2 problems: 

1. We have handled many California wildfire claims before and worked with independent adjusters. Our expert adjuster is very good at finding things the insurance company’s adjuster left out and overlooked. Historically, we have helped people obtain substantially more money for their claim than they receive without us.
2. It is very likely a third party, such as an electric company, will be held liable for these fires. You need an attorney to file the mass tort action against the third party who is responsible for the fires immediately .

There are a lot of scams out there, and firms new to our area attempting to sign up clients. Contact a local attorney with experience, such as Maison Law, to go over your options after damage to your property from a devastating wildfire such as the Palisades Fire or Eaton fire.

Visit our page about Palisades Recovery and Litigation.