New construction on Maiden Ln and Calaveras in Altadena (Photo – W.K.)
Following Governor Gavin Newsom’s announcement supporting expanded income limits for the CalAssist Mortgage Fund, the California Housing Finance Agency (CalHFA) has confirmed that thousands more homeowners across the state affected by wildfires and floods may now qualify for mortgage payment relief.
By News Desk
The CalAssist Mortgage Fund, funded by the State of California and administered through CalHFA, recently raised its income limits to include more households impacted by disasters. In Los Angeles County, for example, survivors of the 2025 wildfires with household incomes up to $211,050 are now eligible, a $70,000 increase from the previous threshold.
The program provides grants covering up to three months of mortgage payments, totaling as much as $20,000 per household. Funds are paid directly to mortgage servicers and do not have to be repaid. Applications are free and currently open on the CalAssist Mortgage Fund website.
CalHFA Chief Deputy Director Rebecca Franklin said, “With this program expansion, we can reach more families struggling to recover from devastating disasters. These grants provide a safety net, helping families while they focus on rebuilding their lives.”
Business, Consumer Services and Housing Agency Secretary Tomiquia Moss added, “When Californians face their hardest moments, the state steps up to help. Today’s announcement ensures more people can access these critical resources when they need them. California is acting decisively when our neighbors need it most.”
The $105 million fund assists homeowners whose primary residence was destroyed or severely damaged by a qualified disaster occurring between January 1, 2023, and January 8, 2025. Eligible properties include single-family homes, condominiums, and permanently affixed manufactured homes with up to four units. Applicants must have a mortgage or reverse mortgage and meet county-specific income limits.
Qualified disasters include the Eaton Fire, Palisades Fire, Park Fire, San Diego floods, and others statewide. Funds are limited, and applications are reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis, so homeowners are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.
For free application assistance, individuals can contact the CalAssist Mortgage Fund call center at 800-501-0019 (Monday–Friday, 8:00 am – 5:00 pm) or connect with HUD-certified housing counseling agencies.
For survivors like Janice Dykstra of Altadena, the program has been life-changing. “Knowing my mortgage was covered for three months lifted a huge weight off my shoulders,” she said. “The CalAssist Mortgage Fund was a true gift, giving me hope and stability after the fire destroyed my home.”
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