Remnants of Eaton Fire, June 1, 2025 (Photo – Melissa Michelson)
California homeowners whose properties have been destroyed or rendered uninhabitable by disasters are now eligible to apply for assistance through the newly launched CalAssist Mortgage Fund.
By News Desk
Launched on June 12, this program offers grants of up to $20,000 to help homeowners make mortgage payments after significant damage from disasters such as fires, floods, or other declared emergencies.
The program is available to homeowners whose properties were impacted by a qualified disaster between January 2023 and January 2025, including those affected by the recent Eaton Fire. Eligible homeowners can receive grants to cover up to three months of mortgage payments, with a total grant amount not exceeding $20,000.
Key Features of the CalAssist Mortgage Fund
- Grants of up to $20,000 to cover mortgage payments.
- Available to homeowners displaced due to damage from qualified disasters.
- Grants do not need to be repaid, and applying is free.
- Funds are distributed directly to the homeowner’s mortgage servicer.
The program aims to provide financial relief to homeowners struggling to keep up with their mortgage payments after suffering significant property loss. To apply, homeowners must meet several eligibility criteria, including having a primary residence that was destroyed or rendered uninhabitable by a qualified disaster between January 1, 2023, and January 8, 2025.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the CalAssist Mortgage Fund, homeowners must meet the following requirements:
- The property must be the applicant’s primary residence.
- It must have been affected by a qualified disaster (e.g., fire, flood) during the specified time frame.
- Applicants must meet the program’s income limits, which vary by county.
- Homeowners must have a mortgage or reverse mortgage on a single-family home, condo, or permanently affixed manufactured home (this may include up to 4 units).
How to Apply
Due to limited funding, homeowners are encouraged to apply as soon as possible. The application process requires submitting essential documents, including:
- Mortgage statement
- Bank statements
- Utility bill
- Proof of income
- Homeowner insurance claim or FEMA application (if applicable)
Homeowners should also check if their mortgage servicer is participating in the program and confirm their property is located in a qualified disaster area.
Once an application is submitted, funds will be awarded on a first-come, first-served basis, so it’s important to apply early while resources are available.
Additional Support for Homeowners
For assistance with the application process, homeowners can receive one-on-one help by calling 1-800-501-0019 between 8:00 am and 5:00 pm, Monday through Friday. Free support services are also available through HUD-certified housing counseling agencies.
Full details about the program, including eligibility requirements and the online application portal, are available at CalAssistMortgageFund.org.
Act Now Before Funds Run Out
With limited funding and high demand, California homeowners are strongly encouraged to begin the application process immediately to secure relief. These grants provide vital financial support to those affected by devastating natural disasters.
For more information, visit CalAssistMortgageFund.org or call the support line at 1-800-501-0019.
Most of the fire victims aren’t qualified due to very conservative income brackets as part of the pre qualification criteria. Not sure if they’ll reconsider.