How to File a Misfortune and

Calamity Claim the the Assessor

The Palisades Fire, the Eaton Fire and other fires have left a historic impact on Southern California. We want to offer our best wishes and hope for the continued health of our clients and those in our community in this very difficult time.

We would like to share some important insight on filing a Misfortune and Calamity claim with the Los Angeles County Assessor's Office:

DEADLINE: You have one (1) calendar year from the date of the damage or destruction of your property to file a Misfortune and Calamity Claim with your local Assessor.
If you need financial assistance and the ability to postpone your second installment of your 2024-2025 property tax bill without penalty, you should file the separate claim form to be considered for the postponement. It is unclear if the Governor's executive order below makes this form unnecessary, but it's likely best practice to file it anyway.

The process of rebuilding will be a long and arduous one, and there are certain property tax rules and regulations to follow when rebuilding to ensure your old Prop 13 protected base value returns. If you need assistance with the misfortune and calamity claim, or if you need assistance moving your Prop 13 protected base value to a replacement property in California, ACS can help.

Executive Orders from the Governor's Office Regarding the Disaster

California Governor Gavin Newsom has issued some Executive Orders with regards to the Palisades and Eaton Fires that have an effect on real estate. They are as follows:

Executive Order N-8-25 suspends certain CEQA regulations as well as permitting requirements under the California Coastal Act in an effort to cut through some bureaucratic red tape when it comes to rebuilding efforts.
Executive Order N-4-25 will determine certain state permitting requirements that might hinder rebuilding efforts, as well as attempt to prevent price gouging.
Executive Order N-10-25 aims to suspend certain Revenue and Taxation Code sections for residents of specific zip codes so that there is not a late payment penalty for any property tax payments due in 2025. Penalties and interest will be suspended until April 10, 2026. It also makes it possible to file personal property statements a year late if the business is located in the zip codes outlined.

For more information contact the law offices of Robert Slavin

Robert Slavin: 805.374.9500 x227 - EMAIL ROBERT