CA Wildfire Resources, Planning, Taxes, and Dirty Laundry?

Paul Miloe, CRPS®

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The devastating wildfires in Los Angeles have served as a reminder of having a plan in place should you find yourself in a similar situation.  In the wake of the most recent fires, and with the toll on property, and, sadly, human life, we are reminded of the importance of planning ahead. In the days following the Palisades and Eaton fires, we have seen the strength of our community and a tremendous outpouring of support to help those who have literally lost everything.  Like the plans you make for your financial affairs, having a disaster plan in place can make a major difference.  This article will cover pre-planning, evacuation actions, and post-event steps you can take if you incur a loss along with updates to changes on Federal and State tax payments for those in Los Angeles County. 

Prior to an evacuation, at a minimum:

  • Determine escape routes from your residence and set a safe location for family to meet should any be separated in the process. 
  • Know how and where to shut off natural gas and propane. 
  • Take a video inventory of your belongings.
  • Set a plan for how you will transport any pets.
  • Establish a fire perimeter around your property by clearing brush and keeping trees trimmed.
  • Ensure important financial, insurance, and estate documents are securely backed up online.
  • Create a “go” or “jump” bag and keep it in your car.

During an evacuation, some things to consider:

  • Shut off natural gas lines and propane.  If possible, move any portable propane tanks away from your house.
  • Close all windows, interior and exterior doors, and any access to the attic.  If time permits, remove any flammable window coverings. 
  • Leave lights on within the house.  While the power remains on, a lit home can help fire crews determine where residences are when smoke is thick. 
  • Grab your pets and crate them (if possible).
  • Leave side gates unlocked to allow easy access for firefighters.  Leaving your front door and garage unlocked can help them, too, but unfortunately, there’s risk of theft after a fire in doing this.
  • Grab flashlights, clothing, medications, and toiletries.  Start with your dirty laundry as chances are it has what you like the most!
  • Don’t stay to “help” firefighters.  If you’re ordered to evacuate, immediately do so, and exit as calmly and safely as the situation permits.
  • If you are forced to abandon your vehicle while evacuating, leave the car unlocked with keys inside.   

Tax payment deadlines have been extended ONLY for residents of LA County:

As a result of the recent wildfires, the IRS and Franchise Tax Board have granted extensions to October 15th for taxes normally due earlier in 2025, but please note this only applies to residents and certain other taxpayers within Los Angeles County.  Prior to deferring payment of any of the taxes noted, be sure to confirm your eligibility with your tax professional.  Payments that can be extended are: quarterly estimates (1/15, 4/15, 6/16, 9/15), individual tax returns (4/15), partnership and S-Corp returns (3/17), and more.  In addition, those in LA County will have up until Oct. 15th to fund IRAs or Roth IRAs (vs. 4/15) for the 2024 tax year.  However, note that if you move to fund after 4/15, you should discuss that in advance with the custodian as a letter of instruction may be required to ensure proper coding.  Most custodians will automatically code contributions after 4/15 for 2025. 

CA.gov – https://www.gov.ca.gov/2025/01/11/california-provides-tax-relief-for-those-affected-by-los-angeles-wildfires/

IRS.gov –  https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/irs-announces-tax-relief-for-taxpayers-impacted-by-wildfires-in-california-various-deadlines-postponed-to-oct-15

Resources for those impacted by the wildfires:

  • CA Top Ten Tips for Wildfire Claimants:

Top 10 Tips for Wildfire Claimants

  • CDI Residential Property Claims Guide (PDF):

IG-Residential-Property-Claims-Guide-Updated-091423.pdf

  • YMCA Community Response:

https://ymcala.org/community-response

  • American Red Cross:

https://www.redcross.org/about-us/news-and-events/press-release/2025/red-cross-helping-in-southern-california-as-wildfires-force-thousands-from-their-homes.html?srsltid=AfmBOop3jCJTqZNDgGAwxHNd5QJ9kwehUSHhAS9677KMFHdlSogQrIRo

  • Emergency Animal Shelters:

https://animalcare.lacounty.gov/emergency-animal-shelter-information-los-angeles-county-fires/

If there’s anything we can do to help you, a family member, or friend, please let us know.  Thank you!

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For a comprehensive review of your personal situation, always consult with a tax or legal advisor. Neither Cetera Advisor Networks LLC nor any of its representatives may give legal or tax advice.

Paul Miloe

CRPS®

Paul Miloe has been a financial advisor with Albitz/Miloe & Associates, Inc. since 1996. He graduated from University of California, Santa Barbara in 1994 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering Geology and Hydrology. Paul is a Chartered Retirement Plans Specialist℠. His focus centers on personal and retirement planning, life insurance, portfolio management, and senior issues, including long-term care insurance. In addition to his roles as Senior Co-Vice President and CCO of our Firm, Paul is also a Branch Manager for Cetera Advisor Networks, LLC (member FINRA/SIPC). Paul, and his wife, Mary, are lifelong residents of the South Bay, have two adult children, and are active community members. Paul enjoys surfing, fishing, mountain biking, and snowboarding.

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