California Expands Mortgage Relief for Fire Survivors

Up to $100K in assistance and 1 year of mortgage payments offered to homeowners impacted by 2025 LA firestorms

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

California Governor Gavin Newsom has announced a significant expansion of the CalAssist Mortgage Fund, offering up to a full year of mortgage assistance and up to $100,000 in aid to homeowners impacted by the 2025 Los Angeles firestorms. This expanded program aims to help families navigate the complex rebuilding process and address the gap between insurance payouts and the total cost of rebuilding.

Why it matters

The state's proactive approach to disaster relief highlights a growing trend of states taking the lead in supporting their communities, as federal aid becomes less predictable. This expanded mortgage assistance program is designed to provide crucial financial support to fire survivors and address the challenges they face in the rebuilding process.

The details

The CalAssist Mortgage Fund now provides up to $100,000 in assistance, a substantial increase from the previous $20,000 limit. The state has also raised income eligibility limits, allowing households with a combined annual income of up to $281,400 in Los Angeles County to qualify for assistance. This broadened eligibility ensures more families can access the crucial support. Beyond mortgage relief, the state is developing a new rebuilding finance fund to help more homeowners qualify for construction loans and address the gap between insurance payouts and the total cost of rebuilding.

  • The expanded program was announced on February 12, 2026.
  • The state has already distributed $6.5 million to 793 recipients of recent natural disasters, primarily those affected by the Palisades and Eaton fires.

The players

Gavin Newsom

The Governor of California, who announced the expansion of the CalAssist Mortgage Fund.

Aurora Barboza Flores

A resident of Altadena who expressed relief about the assistance, stating it is a 'huge relief' and will help alleviate the financial stress of rebuilding.

Sonia Linares

Another Altadena resident who emphasized the importance of applying for the assistance, noting it provided critical relief during a difficult time.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The state is collaborating with private lenders and philanthropic partners to create a sustainable solution for the rebuilding finance fund.

The takeaway

California's proactive approach to disaster relief, including the expanded mortgage assistance program, signals a broader trend of states taking the lead in supporting their communities as federal aid becomes less predictable. This shift could lead to innovative state-level programs and a more resilient disaster recovery system.