California Fire Survivors: Get Up to $100,000 for Mortgage Help

California homeowners affected by recent wildfires can get up to $100,000 to help pay their mortgages. This money does not need to be repaid.

What is the CalAssist Mortgage Fund?

Governor Gavin Newsom expanded this program in February 2026 to help families whose homes were damaged or destroyed by fires. The state originally offered $20,000. Now it offers up to $100,000 - a full year of mortgage payments.

Who Can Apply?

You may qualify if:

• Your home was damaged or destroyed by a wildfire
• The disaster happened between January 2023 and January 2025
• A "State of Emergency" or "Major Disaster Declaration" was issued for your area
• Your household income is below the county limit

Income Limits

Income limits vary by county. The state recently raised these limits to help more families.

Examples:

• Los Angeles County: up to $281,400 per year
• Butte County: up to $255,000 per year

Check your county's limit at www.calassistmortgagefund.org/program-details

How Much Can You Get?

The program provides up to $100,000 for 12 months of mortgage help. That's about $8,300 per month.

If you already received 3 months of assistance, you can apply to extend it to a full 12 months.

How Does It Work?

The state pays your mortgage servicer directly. You don't receive a check. Your mortgage company gets the payment, so you don't have to worry about missing payments while you rebuild.

Who Has Received Help?

So far, California has given $6.5 million to 793 families. Most recipients lost homes in the Palisades and Eaton fires.

Why Apply Now?

Many families affected by fires haven't made a mortgage payment since the fires started. Some have been on forbearance (payment pause) for a year. This program helps close the gap between immediate relief and long-term recovery.

How to Apply

1. Visit www.calassistmortgagefund.org
2. Check if your county qualifies and if your income is within limits
3. Submit your application online
4. Provide proof of disaster impact and income

Questions? Visit the website for more information and to apply.

"The help I received eased a huge amount of stress during an incredibly difficult time," said Sonia Linares, an Altadena resident who lost her home and received help from the program.

Governor Newsom said the state is "a committed partner every step of the way on the road to recovery."

The program is run by the California Housing Finance Agency (CalHFA).