Workers and business owners in Los Angeles County impacted by the California firestorms still have time to apply for critical assistance through Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) and standard unemployment insurance. These fire disaster benefits provide financial relief for those who lost work or income due to the January wildfires, with applications accepted until June 10, 2025.

Disaster Assistance Available Through June 10

California’s Employment Development Department (EDD) confirmed that both traditional unemployment benefits and DUA are available to qualified applicants. The DUA program specifically assists those who do not typically qualify for regular benefits, including self-employed individuals, independent contractors, and business owners affected by the disaster.

The benefits apply to job or income loss that began during the week of January 12, 2025. In recognition of the urgent need for support, the usual one-week waiting period for unemployment benefits has been waived. This means applicants can begin receiving support from their first week of verified unemployment.

Eligible applicants are encouraged to apply through the EDD’s online system, myEDD, and should specify that their job loss is due to the disaster. Accurate designation ensures the claim is evaluated appropriately and linked to the fire response.

Fire Disaster Benefits Aid Self-Employed

DUA offers expanded eligibility compared to traditional unemployment benefits. In Los Angeles County, many impacted individuals may include gig workers, entrepreneurs, and independent service providers. These groups often face exclusion from standard unemployment assistance programs.

DUA coverage includes individuals who became the head of household due to a disaster-related death, or who cannot reach their place of work or operate their business due to fire-related damages. To qualify, applicants must demonstrate that their unemployment or reduced hours are a direct result of the declared disaster.

Disability Claims Linked to Fire Impact

Employees who were physically injured or developed a qualifying illness due to the fires may be eligible for disability insurance. The program provides partial wage replacement for workers who are temporarily unable to perform their job duties due to a non-work-related illness or injury. In this case, smoke inhalation, burn injuries, or other health issues resulting from the fires may qualify.

Applicants for disability benefits should submit medical certification and describe the connection between their condition and the fire disaster. Claims can be filed using SDI Online, the EDD’s digital platform for disability insurance services.

Relief for Employers Facing Reporting Challenges

The EDD is also offering a 60-day extension for payroll reporting and tax submissions to employers directly impacted by the firestorms. This extension helps businesses maintain compliance and avoid penalties as they recover operations or manage disaster-related disruptions.

Employers must submit a written request to the EDD, indicating how the fire disaster has affected their business operations and filing capabilities. The extension is available for businesses within the officially declared disaster area.

The fire disaster benefits offer a vital safety net as Los Angeles County residents recover from significant losses. For those still weighing whether to apply, EDD officials urge swift action ahead of the June 10 deadline.

Filing now ensures applicants don’t miss out on financial support that can bridge the gap until they are able to return to work or resume business operations.

For more information or to apply for unemployment or disaster benefits, visit www.edd.ca.gov. Community resource centers and disaster recovery centers throughout Los Angeles County may also assist residents with claim preparation and submission.