LA County Emergency Resources for Workers and Businesses
The LA Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO) leads economic resiliency and recovery efforts for the County of Los Angeles. In an emergency, DEO and our partners are here to provide information, programs and services, and resources for workers and businesses.
LA County Wildfire Emergency
For general small business support, please contact our Office of Small Business (OSB) at 844-432-4900 or email osb@opportunity.lacounty.gov.
To access our virtual America’s Job Centers of California (AJCC) services, visit ajcc.lacounty.gov, call or email
workforce@opportunity.lacounty.gov.
Please indicate “wildfire assistance” in email subject line for both OSB and AJCC services.
This page has been updated for the Palisades Fire, Eaton Fire, Hurst Fire, Sunset Fire and other recent wildfires.
Ready LA County
Staying prepared and informed builds resiliency and is the first line of defense in any emergency.
Visit ready.lacounty.gov to for updates and follow
@readylacounty
Dial 2-1-1 for emergency preparedness information and referrals. For updates visit here
Register for alerts at ready.lacounty.gov/emergency-notifications/.
Visit here for a business resiliency roadmap and resources including PDF forms to help prepare
Download Watch Duty app for real-time updates sent directly to a cell phone
Create a disaster preparedness plan by visiting here or ready.gov
LA County Emergency
Following and understanding official public health and safety guidance during an emergency is critical for health and safety. Visit lacounty.gov/emergency and follow @countyofla for:
Real-time updates on the incident response by
the County and partners and press conference streams and media releases
Ways to offer volunteer hours, small donations, and goods and services through: Emergency Network Los Angeles (ENLA)
Information on: evacuations, road closures, debris removal, water impacts, health alerts and PPE availability, human and animal shelter, family assistance centers, and other immediate relief
Access to the County’s Emergency Map providing updates on significant threats
lA County REcovers:
Critical information and Resources for Economic Recovery
For the latest resources on community recovery, visit recovery.lacounty.gov.
While the first 72-hour response to any emergency is focused on saving lives and ensuring health and safety, DEO supports emergency management while assessing economic impacts, identifying requisite resources, and beginning to lay plans for economic recovery and resiliency for the County’s workers, small businesses, and communities. From business owners looking to rebuild or employees trying to get back on your feet, we are here to help.
For Businesses
Support and resources for businesses with
structural loss or damage, closure, and revenue loss
For Workers
Support and resources for workers facing
imminent layoffs, loss of wages, or unemployment
For information, resources and events to be reviewed for
inclusion on this page, click on button to submit:
Disaster Recovery Centers, Business Recovery Centers, Impacted Family and Worker Centers, and Permit One-Stops
Disaster Recovery Centers are open Monday through Saturday to the public from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
Locations include:
- Westside Location
UCLA Research Park West
10850 West Pico Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90064
- Eastside Location
Altadena
540 West Woodbury Road,
Altadena, CA 91001
U.S. Small Business Administration Business Recovery Centers (BRC) are now open in Los Angeles County. Locations include:
- West Hollywood Chamber of Commerce
8272 Santa Monica Blvd.
West Hollywood, CA 90046
Opened 11 a.m. Friday, Jan. 17
Thursdays – Saturdays, 9:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
- Santa Monica Public Library
601 Santa Monica Blvd
Santa Monica, CA 90401
Mondays – Wednesdays, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
- Women’s Business Center
Parking at back of building on Yolanda Ave.
18700 Sherman Way, Ste. 7
Reseda, CA 91335
Mondays – Wednesdays, 8:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
- Ventura County Community
Foundation (VCCF) Economic Development Collaborative
4001 Mission Oaks Blvd., Ste. A1
Camarillo, CA 93012
One-Stop Permit Centers are open to expedite the rebuilding process for home and commercial property owners affected by the Palisades and Eaton fires. These permit centers connect residents and owners with the departments responsible for rebuilding and support, including the Department of Economic Opportunity in the Altadena One-Stop Permit Center.
- LA County One-Stop Permit Center
464 West Woodbury Road, Suite 210, Altadena, CA 91001
Open Monday, Wednesday & Friday: 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Saturday: 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. - City of LA – One Stop Permit Center
1828 Sawtelle Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90025
Open Monday – Friday: 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Saturday and Sunday: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
- LA County One-Stop Permit Center
26600 Agoura Road, #110, Calabasas, CA 91302
Open Monday, Wednesday & Friday: 7:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.
Saturday: 8 a.m. – 12 p.m.
- City of Malibu Rebuild Center
23805 Stuart Ranch Road, Suite 240, Malibu, CA 90265
Open Monday – Friday: 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
- City of Pasadena Planning Recovery Virtual Consultations
Appointments are available Monday through Thursday here
Questions: Email or visit the Pasadena Permit Center
The Impacted Worker and Family Recovery Centers offer job training and placement, income support, grants for small businesses, educational services for youth, and more. The four Recovery Centers are open Monday-Friday from 9:00am to 5:00pm (PT):
- West LA WorkSource Center & America’s Job Center of California – DEO co-located
465446 Sepulveda Blvd, Culver City 90230
(310) 309-6000 - West Adams/Leimert Park FamilySource Center
4305 Degnan Blvd, suite 105, Los Angeles 90008
(323) 293-6284
- Northeast San Fernando Valley WorkSource Center (Mission College) – DEO co-located
13356 Eldridge Ave, Campus Center, Sylmar 91342
(818) 482-1754
- Boyle Heights FamilySource Center
2130 1st Street, suite 110, Los Angeles 90033
(323) 526-9301
Webinars & Events
Altadena Community Meetings
Online, hosted by Supervisor Kathryn Barger.
Submit Questions: Click here
Join: LA County’s YouTube channel.
Tips for Hiring A Debris Removal Contractor
Contractors State License Board (CSLB) Registrar David Fogt and Los Angeles Area permitting officials will host a live webinar to discuss steps to take in the recovery and rebuilding process.
The Mindry Community Recovery Session
Join the Mindry Community Recovery Session for a safe space to share experiences, receive support, and build connections with others who understand.
Who Should Attend:
- Anyone affected either directly or indirectly by the recent wildfires
- Individuals seeking relevant resources, support, and healing
- Those looking to connect with others who share similar experiences
What to Expect:
- Guided group discussion in a safe, non-judgmental environment
- Opportunities to build meaningful connections and share resources
Rebuild & Expo Committee
Contractors, Rebuild Professionals, Fire Survivors Rebuilding, and Business Owners – join the PaliBu Chamber of Commerce’s bi-weekly committee meeting online. Begin the discussion on moving forward with rebuilding.
Register here.
Navigating The Rebuilding Process
This event is designed to assist families in the process of rebuilding after a fire. Learn how to navigate through Public Works and rebuild with confidence.
DEO’s Wildfire and Windstorm Programs
LA Region Small Business and Worker Relief Funds
LA County, LA City, Southern California Grantmakers, and partners have launched an LA Region Small Business and Worker Relief Fund for small businesses, nonprofits, and workers impacted by the 2025 wind and wildfire disaster. The program will provide grants up to $25,000 for eligible small businesses and nonprofits and $2,000 for workers.
Applications are now closed. To learn more, visit https://laregionfund.lacounty.gov/.
LA County Business to Business Space Share
DEO and LA County’s Internal Service Department launched a free virtual exchange where organizations and individuals with available workspace can connect with displaced businesses and nonprofits by the windstorm and wildfires.
Get started in donating or browsing available space and matching today here. Read the press release here.
For Businesses
DEO offers direct 1:1 counseling and referrals through our Office of Small Business Concierge and referrals to trusted partners for Entrepreneurship Academies, technical assistance and training, and capital programs. DEO also coordinates emergency information and resources from public, private, and community-serving partners.
Loans
State Loans
California Infrastructure and Economic Development Bank (IBank) offers loan programs for businesses affected by disasters in California. IBank, a unit within California Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development (GO-Biz), offers loan programs for businesses from 1 to 750 employees (small businesses).
- Disaster Relief Loan Guarantee Program (DRLGP): Businesses in disaster areas can secure up to 95% of the loan amount to help small business borrowers who were impacted by disasters or public safety power shutoffs and who need term loans or lines of credit for working capital with limits up to $1 million.
- Jump Start Loan Program: IBank offers loans from $500 to $10,000 to low-wealth entrepreneurs in the declared disaster and emergency areas.
California State Treasurer’s Office CA Capital Access Program (CalCAP): CalCAP is a loan loss reserve program that may provide up to 10% courage on losses as a result of certain loan defaults. Find a participating lender.
Federal Loans
U.S Small Business Administration (SBA) Disaster Loans are now available for Los Angeles County victims of the wind and wildfire events, which started Jan 7, 2025. SBA offers a variety of loan programs to assist small businesses, ranging from micro-loans of up to $50,000 to bank loans of up to $5 million guaranteed by the SBA. Types of disaster loans include:
- Home Disaster Loans: Loans to homeowners or renters to repair or replace disaster-damaged real estate and personal property, including automobiles. (Application Passed: March 31st, 2025)
- Business Physical Disaster Loans: Loans to businesses to repair or replace disaster-damaged property owned by the business, including real estate, inventories, supplies, machinery and equipment. Businesses of any size are eligible. Private, non-profit organizations such as charities, churches, private universities, etc., are also eligible. (Application Passed: March 31st, 2025)
- Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL): Working capital loans to help small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small businesses engaged in aquaculture, and most private, non-profit organizations of all sizes meet their ordinary and necessary financial obligations that cannot be met as a direct result of the disaster. These loans are intended to assist through the disaster recovery period. (Application Deadline: October 8th, 2025)
For more information, visit a Disaster Recovery Center, SBA Business Recovery Center, or contact the SBA Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or send an email to disastercustomerservice@sba.gov.
Other Loan Programs
Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs): Provides financial solutions for residents and small business owners, including small business loans, equity investments, personal financial services, and education and financial literacy.
Lendistry: Lendistry is a minority-owned small business lender. Access loans starting at $25,000 as well as other special loan and grant opportunities, where available. Start at: Lendistry | Small Business Lending.
Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC): Offers Working Capital loans from $100,000 to $500,000 for commercial and small businesses, as well as other loan products.
Jewish Free Loan Association (JFLA): Provides zero-interest and zero-free loans up to $15K for emergency housing, businesses support for wildfire evacuees and more.
Small Business Emergency Loan Program: PACE is offering low-interest loans of $5,000 with a maximum tenure period of 24 months, interest rate of 5.0% annum fixed, and no payment in the first three months (grace period) to provide fast, flexible relief for affected small businesses and individuals.
Grants
Active Funding Available
The Support Small Business – Insurance Deductible Relief Fund: Team Friday supports impacted small businesses with cash based mutual aid to help cover the cost of deductibles for insurance claims. Submit your application for potential award.
Wish Local Empowerment Program: $2 million commitment for 4,000 grants to Black-owned small businesses ranging from $500-$2,000. Must have a brick and mortar in the US, 20 or fewer employees, earn under $1 million in revenue, 18+ years plus, and participation in Wish Local. Apply at Wish Local Empowerment Program.
Handyworker Grant Program: The Los Angeles County Development Agency offers the Handyworker Program. The Handyworker Grant Program aims to preserve existing homes by funding minor home repairs to ensure the health and safety of eligible low- to moderate-income homeowners within the unincorporated areas of the First, Fourth, and Fifth Supervisorial Districts. May apply for home-based businesses. Maximum grant award of $9,000.
Financial Counseling
Local Counselors
Local Counselors/Small Business Administration (SBA): Offers free or low-cost counseling for small businesses through its national network of Resource Partners. These partner organizations help review your business plans, identify opportunities to access capital, or provide information on applicable tax benefits, among other counseling services. Locate a Resource Partner, near you to address your needs including Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs), SCORE Business Mentors, Veterans Business Outreach Center (VBOC), and Women’s Business Centers.
Financial Empowerment Services
The Center for Financial Empowerment: The LA County Department of Consumer and Business Affairs (DCBA) provides coaching, tax assistance, consumer protection, and other financial services through a network of partners.
Records
Replacing Records
Los Angeles County residents directly impacted by fires can request property and vital records free of charge from the Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk’s Office. Call 800-201-8999 and select Option 1, followed by Option 2, or email request with specific information to recorder@rrcc.lacounty.gov. Read FAQ here
Barbering and Cosmetology License Exams and Replacements: The Board of Barbering and Cosmetology, the Board of Accountancy, and other are rescheduling licensing examinations at no charge and assisting licensees by issuing duplicate licenses due to a physical license being lost in the fires.
Mail Services
United State Postal Service (USPS) Forwarding: The USPS can forward mail to a temporary location. Commercial tenants may submit an Official Mail Forwarding Change of Address Order (COA) to reroute mail (including packages and letters) online at https://moversguide.usps.com/ or by filling out a PS Form 3575 (COA) available at any post office.
The Post Office is always open, 24/7 including holidays, at www.usps.com. Using usps.com, customers can look up a ZIP Code, request free Priority Mail Flat Rate packaging, hold mail, set up Premium Forwarding Service, and even print a mailing label and pay for postage using Click-N-Ship.
For more information about postal products and services, customers may call 1-800-ASK-USPS (1-800-275-8777) or visit the Postal Service online at www.usps.com.
For additional retail locations, visit: https://tools.usps.com/locations/.
Legal Services
Legal Assistance
LA Regional Small Business Legal Aid Program: Offers no cost legal assistance for commercial lease agreements, landlord communications, and navigating insurance claims in partnership with Bet Tzedek and Public Counsel.
Dispute Resolution Services
LA County Dispute Resolution Program: LA County Department of Business and Consumer Affairs (DCBA) offers no-cost mediation service to community and court-impacted individuals seeking to resolve disputes outside of court including neighbor, landlord-tenant, consumer, and business disputes.
Property
Property Damage
Property Damage/Misfortune and Calamity Tax Relief: Property damaged or destroyed by a calamity, such as fire or flooding, may qualify for relief by submitting an Application for Reassessment: Property Damaged or Destroyed by Misfortune or Calamity (M&C) Form ADS-820 with the LA County’s Assessor’s Office within 12 months from the date the property was damaged or destroyed. The loss must exceed $10,000 of current market value.
Property Damage/Proposition 19 Disaster Relief Transfer of Base Value: In cases of Governor declared disasters, Prop 19 allows for a property’s tax base to be transferred to a comparable property within the same county or another county in California.
LA County Business to Business Space Share
LA County Business to Business Space Share: DEO and LA County’s Internal Service Department launched a free virtual exchange where organizations and individuals with available workspace can connect with displaced businesses and nonprofits by the windstorm and wildfires. Get started in donating or browsing available space and matching today here. Read the press release here.
Insurance
Damage Inspection Status: Visit recovery.lacounty.gov and Damages Maps tab to find updated photos and percent damage information that can be used for insurance claims.
United Policyholders’ Roadmap to Recovery program: Provides free, reliable guidance to help navigate the challenges of returning to wildfire-affected areas, repairing or replacing damaged property, and maximizing available insurance benefits.
Tax
Federal, State and Local
Federal
Federal Income Tax Relief: The federal Internal Revenue Service have extended tax-filing and tax-payment due dates for impacted individuals and businesses due on or after January 7th to October 15th.
State
State Income Tax Relief: The State’s California Franchise Tax Board has extended tax-filing and tax-payment due dates for impacted individuals and businesses due on or after January 7th to October 15th. This matches the federal extension.
State Sales Tax and Fee Relief: The CA Department of Tax and Fee Administration has extended the January 31st sales and use tax filing due date from impacted LA County taxpayers until April 30th, 2025.
The CA Department of Tax and Fee Administration has authority to provider three-month extension of tax return due dates, relief of penalty and interest, or replacement copies of records lost due to disasters.
State Payroll Tax: The State extended the property tax deadline for businesses affected by the LA fires. Misfortune and Calamity Tax Relief and Prop 19 Disaster Relief Transfer of Base Value applications are through the Los Angeles County Assessor.
- File their state payroll reports: Reporting extension
- Deposit payroll taxes without penalty or interest: Payroll tax extension
Local
Property Damage/Misfortune and Calamity Tax Relief: Property damaged or destroyed by a calamity, such as fire or flooding, may qualify for relief by submitting an Application for Reassessment: Property Damaged or Destroyed by Misfortune or Calamity (M&C) Form ADS-820 with the LA County’s Assessor’s Office within 12 months from the date the property was damaged or destroyed. The loss must exceed $10,000 of current market value.
2025 Business Tax Relief Program and Tax Filing Deadline for Businesses Extended: The LA City Mayor and Council have created the 2025 Business Tax Relief Program. This includes business tax filing extensions by the LA City Office of Finance automatically for zip codes 90402, 90272 and 90049 from February 28, 2025, to April 14, 2025.
Permitting
CEQA and Coastal Act Permit Requirement Waivers
The Governor issued a series of Executive Orders to expedite permitting for rebuilding in fire impacted areas. The latest Executive Order from February 13th does the following:
- Updates the Governor’s previous executive orders waiving permitting requirements under the Coastal Act and CA Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) by clarifying the scope of the waivers and that local planning or permit approval is determinative of eligibility for these suspensions.
- Expedites rebuilds of recently constructed homes by allowing them to be rebuilt to approved specifications.
- Helps speed access to original plans held by local planning and building departments, to minimize delays in rebuilding.
- Extends deadlines for construction permits, to limit the administrative burden for homeowners seeking to rebuild.
- Extends deadlines related to local housing element rezoning requirements for Los Angeles County so local government staff can focus fully on issuing permits for rebuilding efforts.
Annual Licensure, Certificate, and Permit Fee Waivers
On January 29th, Governor Newsom issued an Executive Order to support small business owners and workers impacted by Los Angeles-area firestorms, including:
- Extending the deadline to pay for renewing licenses, certificates, and permits for one year for licenses with a renewal date occurring between January 1, 2025, and July 1, 2025.
- Waiving fees for businesses and workers requesting duplicate or replacement of a license certificate that was burned or destroyed.
- Extending deadlines for businesses to appeal license-related proceedings.
- Eliminating requirements that make it more difficult to relocate certain businesses impacted by the fires.
One-Stop Permit Centers
Visit a One-Stop Permit Center for 1:1, expedited support for permitting and rebuilding needs from all relevant government agencies. DEO is onsite at the Altadena One-Stop Permit Center. Click here to find a location.
Contracting
Contracting
Certified Contractors: The U.S. Green Building Council California provides a directory to connect wildfire impacted residents with certified contractors and architects specializing in rebuilding. This resource helps homeowners and businesses find qualified professionals to support restoration efforts while promoting sustainable, resilient communities.
Debris Clean-Up Subcontracting: Local businesses are needed immediately to provide debris cleanup and other post-disaster services. Businesses should assess if they are qualified and ready to provide services in: hazardous material removal, debris removal, engineering specialized in demolition, traffic control, water transportation, street sweeping, tree cutting, and administrative support. Businesses need to register for federal recovery contracts with SAM.gov; support can be provided through DEO’s APEX Accelerator. Finally, businesses need to pre-register with the Army Corp of Engineer’s primary contractor, ECC at www.ecc.net.
Utilities
Electricity
Economic Development Rate: PG&E developed an Economic Development Rate (EDR) to help businesses grow or to keep jobs in California. Our EDR offers eligible businesses the opportunity to lower costs through one of three reduced electric rate options.
The Economic Development Services (EDS) team at Southern California Edison is available to assist your business and help you grow in Southern California. We offer an energy discount through our Economic Development Rate (EDR) program to attract, retain, or expand your business operations in our service territory versus out of state. Specifically, the program offers a 12% discount on your energy bill over a 5-year period.
Connectivity
Emergency Tech and Connectivity Support: Information Technology Disaster Resource Center (ITDRC) is a community-serving nonprofit providing connectivity and technology support services for those impacted by disasters including businesses.
For additional information and 24-hour assistance visit here.
Debris Removal
Debris Removal
Property owners do NOT need to sign up for Phase 1 household hazardous debris removal. However, if the property has been damaged or destroyed, it must pass a Phase 1 household hazardous debris inspection and clearance by the EPA before being eligible for moving into Phase 2 removal of the remaining fire debris.
For Phase 2, property owners need to decide whether to opt in for no out-of-pocket cost cleanup by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers or opt out and pay a specialized, approved contractor to remove the remaining fire debris, following all necessary requirements, rules and regulations. Property owners won’t be able to get a Phase 2 permit unless they have received Phase 1 clearance from the EPA.
As of March 28th, commercial properties may be considered for Phase 2 debris removal by the Army Corps of Engineers and contractors on a case-by-case basis. The Right of Entry Opt-In form must be submitted by April 15th for consideration.
LA County Public Works Fire Debris Hotline: 844-347-3332 | US Army Corps of Engineers Debris Call Center: 213-308-8305
Layoff Aversion and Worker Retention
Business Assistance
Business Technical Assistance Program: Los Angeles County Economic Development Corporation offers no-cost consulting services to help businesses overcome challenges and find alternatives to layoffs.
Workforce Assistance
Local Job Centers
America’s Job Centers of California (AJCC): These centers offer businesses direct support with recruitment, training new and incumbent workers, hiring new workers, avoiding layoffs, and accessing financial incentives to meet workforce goals.:
- On-the-Job Training: Access 90% wage subsidies by hiring and onboarding new staff.
- Incumbent Worker Training: Access subsidies for costs incurred in training and upskilling existing workforce and demonstrating retention and advancement. This could include training on new technology, services, and markets.
- Customized Training: Develop individualized or cohort training or work experiences that meets the needs of a single or group of employers.
- Youth Workers: Onboard young adult workers ages 14-24 at no-cost for 100+ hours.
- Tax Credits for Hiring Disadvantaged Workers: Access tax credits range from $1,200 to $9,600 for employers participating in the Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) who hire and employ members of traditionally disadvantaged groups .
Email workforce@opportunity.lacounty.gov with “Wildfire Impacted” in subject line to connect to DEO. To find a center closest to you, visit here.
FEMA Disaster Relief
Disaster Declaration
State of Emergency On January 7th, the Governor declared a State of Emergency with onset of the January 2025 windstorms and wildfires.
Presidential Major Disaster Declaration: On January 9th, President Biden approved a Presidential Major Disaster Declaration following the Governor’s State of Emergency declaration.
The President’s action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in Los Angeles County. Assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster.
FEMA Disaster Assistance
The due date for FEMA Disaster Assistance was March 31st, 2025. To learn more or ask questions, visit DisasterAssistance.gov, call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362, or visit a Disaster Recovery Center.
By law, FEMA cannot duplicate benefits you receive from another source. Visit here for more information on GoFundMe and potential dislocation for FEMA relief.
Price Gouging, Fraud, or Scams
Price Gouging
Consumer Complaints for Price Gouging: California law price-gouging protections are in effect and apply to hotels, rental housing, food, and many other goods and services. Report price gouging, fraud or scams with the LA County Department of Consumer and Business Affairs here or call (800) 593-8222. Watch this Price Gouging PSA and access their disaster preparedness and recovery resources: L.A. County Disaster Preparedness and Recovery Resources – Consumer & Business. Also visit the State’s Office of the Attorney General to learn more and file reports here.
Price Hike Prohibitions: During emergencies, price hikes for essentials like groceries, gasoline, medical supplies, repair services, and housing cannot go up by more than 10% in the affected areas. Protections against price increases last for 30 days while protections for contractor-related services last 180 days from the declared emergency.
Fraud and Scams
FEMA Related Scams/Fraud: If there is an indication of fraud, such as an indication of an application filled out by someone else or duplicate application, call the FEMA Helpline immediately at 800-621-3362 or speak to a FEMA representative at a Disaster Recovery Center. FEMA’s security team will promptly investigate the issue and/or duplication and stop further processing of that application. FEMA staff will be able to assist the survivor and ensure they receive the assistance they qualify for.
Need Help Navigating Resources
Business Technical Assistance Providers
LA County’s Office of Small Business: Offers 1:1 counseling, new business start-up and growth workshops, permit and license navigation, certification and public sector contracting, and referrals to legal, financial, and other assistance. Services can be accessed virtually or in person at the East LA Entrepreneur Center.
LA County’s Sidewalk Vending Program: Offers information, 1:1 assistance, and capital, including fee subsidies to sidewalk vendors in the unincorporated LA County.
LA County’s Economic Mobility Initiative: Provides a coordinated and customized approach across 15+ local partners to ensure entrepreneurs, small businesses, and nonprofits have access to all programs, services, and resources to start-up and grow, including 1:1 technical assistance, access to capital, recruiting and hiring employees, navigating government contracting, no cost legal assistance, and applying for permits.
Business Technical Assistance with Los Angeles County Economic Development Corporation: Offers access to free, confidential consulting for businesses of any size, including support to prevent layoffs.
Small Business Development Centers (SBDC): The LA SBDC Network provides small business entrepreneurs with no-cost, confidential, business advising services, and low-cost training opportunities, across Los Angeles, Santa Barbara and Ventura Counties.
BusinessSource Centers (City of LA Only): Offers free resources for startups and small businesses, including growth, employment, and youth development support offered by the LA City Economic and Workforce Development Department.
Digital Navigators
LA City Disaster Relief Navigator: The LA Disaster Relief Navigator is an online tool to help Angelenos access critical resources like government assistance, insurance claims, home damage remediation, and housing solutions. It provides a personalized action plan to make the recovery process easier and help the community rebuild stronger. In-person help is also available at an LA Disaster Recovery Center.
Visit wildfires.betterangels.la to get started.
Together for LA: Cross-sector partnership triaging wildfire Information, resources and assistance to support residents and businesses.
In Partnership with LA County and LA City: CalOSBA Outsmart Disaster: California Office of the Small Business Advocate (CalOSBA) has launched a Resource Guide for small businesses impacted by the wildfires through its Outsmart Disaster website, and is conducting a series of online trainings in both English and Spanish.
For Workers
LA County offers a range of services to support workers affected by job disruptions due to emergencies. Whether facing layoffs, seeking new training opportunities, or navigating essential benefits, resources are designed to provide immediate and practical assistance for workers.
Unemployment Insurance
Unemployment Insurance
Disaster Unemployment Assistance: Financial assistance from the State Employment Development Department (EDD) may be available for self-employed, entrepreneurs and small business owners, and other impacted workers typically ineligible for Unemployment Insurance through the Disaster Unemployment Assistant (DUA) program. Application due dates for DUA have been extended to June 10th, 2025. For assistance, visit a Disaster Recovery Center, an America’s Job Center of California where DEO and EDD co-locate, or call EDD at
1-800-815-9387.
Grants
Active Funding Available
Entertainment Community Fund – Emergency Assistance Funds: Emergency financial assistance is available to eligible performing arts and entertainment professionals in times of unexpected critical need and to assist toward basic living expenses such as health care, housing and utilities to prevent eviction or shut offs.
Job Search Assistance
Employment Assistance
America’s Job Centers of California: America’s Job Centers of California (AJCCs) are available to assist displaced and impacted workers. The centers offer labor market information, job readiness workshops and 1:1 support, no-cost skills training, supportive services like Unemployment Insurance and healthcare coverage, and connection to hiring employers. To access virtual services, visit here or email: workforce@opportunity.lacounty.gov with “Wildfire Impacted” in the email subject line.
Tools for Job Seekers: The LA County Library offers online classes, on-demand career-related videos, a Work Ready book collection, and links to popular job boards, and much more.
Legal Assistance
Legal Assistance for Workers
Public Counsel’s Audrey Irmas Gender Justice Project: Provides information for impacted workers on how to access emergency financial assistance, recover unpaid wages, and understand employment rights regarding the impact of the fires. Workers may apply by signing up for a clinic appointment here: https://calendly.com/d/cp9x-6t8-3ys or calling (213) 385-2977, x410.
Healthcare Resources
Health Insurance
Low-Cost or No Cost Health Insurance: Apply for Covered California for low-cost health insurance or check eligibility for Medi-Cal through the LA County Department of Public Social Services.
Walk-Up Primary Care Services: Access immediate primary care services through AltMed. For in person or telehealth care call 888-499-9303, use the AltaMed patient portal, or visit an open AltaMed clinic.
FEMA Disaster Relief
Disaster Declaration
On January 7th, the Governor declared a State of Emergency with onset of the January 2025 windstorms and wildfires.
Presidential Major Disaster Declaration
On January 9th, President Biden approved a Presidential Major Disaster Declaration following the Governor’s State of Emergency declaration.
The President’s action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in Los Angeles County. Assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster.
FEMA Disaster Assistance
The due date for FEMA Disaster Assistance was March 31st, 2025. To learn more or ask questions, visit DisasterAssistance.gov, call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362, or visit a Disaster Recovery Center. By law, FEMA cannot duplicate benefits you receive from another source. Visit here for more information on GoFundMe and potential dislocation for FEMA relief.
Relief Regardless of Immigration Status
Resources and services provided by DEO are available to all LA County residents regardless of immigration status. DEO works with a network of partners and community organizations. If DEO can’t provide direct assistance, we can connected individuals to other partners and resources.
FEMA Disaster Relief & Other Disaster Relief
FEMA Disaster Assistance: Mixed-status households may qualify for certain forms of FEMA disaster assistance even if the primary applicant does not meet the citizenship or immigration status criteria, provided:
- The household includes an eligible member, such as a minor child, who is a citizen, non-citizen national, or qualified non-citizen under federal law.
- The parent or guardian must apply as co-applicant and the minor child must have been under 18 at the time the disaster occurred.
The due date for FEMA Disaster Assistance was March 31st, 2025. To learn more or ask questions, visit DisasterAssistance.gov, call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362, or visit a Disaster Recovery Center.
California’s Guide to Disaster Assistance Services for Immigrant Californians: Provides detailed information on accessing disaster relief and recovery services, regardless of immigration status. Find the guide in English here and Spanish here.
UCLA Labor Center Resource Directory: Visit bit.ly/immigrant-resources25 for immigration legal services, healthcare and wellness, know your rights toolkits, rapid response and deportation defense, emergency hotlines, and guides for select groups supporting immigrants.
Employment Services
Disability Insurance (DI) and Paid Family Leave (PFL): DI and PFL are available to undocumented workers affected by wildfire-related injuries, illnesses, or caregiving responsibilities. These programs provide partial wage replacement during time off for personal health challenges or family caregiving needs caused by the fires. Applications for these benefits do not require a Social Security Number, and all personal information remains confidential without impacting immigration status or future citizenship pathways.
Legal Resources
Neighborhood Legal Services (NLSALA): NLSALA assists immigrant communities in applying for FEMA and wildfire-related assistance and other resources other resources. Call the NLSALA General Hotline: (800) 433-6251 or visit the NLSLA Wildfire Resource Page.
National Immigration Law Center (NILC): NILC provides resources and information for refugees, asylees, immigrants, and their families.
Other Helpful Resource Links
Government and Local Partners
Frequently Asked Questions
I need help accessing cash assistance and food?
The LA County Department of Public Social Services can support expedited sign up for CalFresh and other benefits in an emergency. Department of Public Social Services
What should I do if I am in an area affected by wildfires?
Safety is top priority. Individuals and families should follow local evacuation orders and safety protocols issued by local authorities. For the latest information, visit lacounty.gov/emergency and follow @countyofla.
How can I access real-time updates, alerts, and essential resources about the wildfires and other emergencies in LA County?
Visit lacounty.gov/emergency. For the latest information on the wildfires on social media, follow:
@countyofla
@readylacounty
@lacountyfd.
How is the County and DEO coordinating resources for recovery?
LA County and DEO are mobilizing resources, partners, and programs to ensure rapid response and recovery for local businesses, workers, and communities impacted by the wildfires. DEO is working closely with State and local agencies to ensure affected businesses and workers can access all available resources.
Are DEO services available virtually?
DEO services are available virtually. For general small business support, the Office of Small Business can be contacted at 844-432-4900 or by email at osb@opportunity.lacounty.gov with “Wildfire Impacted” in the email subject line. For workforce support, the America’s Job Centers of California can be accessed virtually at ajcc.lacounty.gov or by email at workforce@opportunity.lacounty.gov with “Wildfire Impacted” in the email subject line.
Where can I volunteer or make small monetary or goods and services donations?
Contact the Emergency Volunteer Network by visiting: Emergency Network Los Angeles (ENLA).
Note in-kind donations are at capacity. LA County encourages those who wish to contribute to consider monetary donations at ENLA, including the American Red Cross, Salvation Army, and California Community Foundation. Financial contributions are the fastest, most flexible, and most effective way to help.