Tax Alert: IRS Relief for Los Angeles County Residents

By: Stephanie Sherman

Senior Manager, Tax

California’s Los Angeles County has faced devastating wildfires recently, causing widespread destruction, displacement, and hardship for thousands of residents. Recognizing the tremendous impact of these events, both the IRS and California governments have stepped in to offer critical tax relief to those affected. This IRS Relief for Los Angeles is designed to ease the financial burden on individuals and businesses by extending filing and payment deadlines, allowing taxpayers to focus on recovery and rebuilding. Read on for a breakdown of what this means for you and how to take advantage of these extended deadlines.  

Why This Relief Was Granted  

The wildfires in Los Angeles County have been among the most severe in recent history, prompting a state of emergency declaration by Governor Gavin Newsom and a Major Disaster Declaration by President Joe Biden. These measures enable residents to access various forms of disaster relief, including extended tax filing and payment deadlines at both the state and federal levels.  

This tax relief aligns with the urgency of the situation, offering LA County residents more time to manage their finances without the immediate pressure of tax obligations.  

Key Tax Relief Measures  

The IRS and the California Franchise Tax Board (FTB) have implemented several measures to provide relief for individuals and businesses affected by the wildfires. Here are the main details you need to know: 

Federal & State Filing and Payment Extensions  

• Extended Deadline: Taxpayers in LA County now have until October 15, 2025 to file 2024 tax returns and make required tax payments.  

• Impacted Deadlines: 

• Individual tax returns and payments originally due on April 15, 2025.  

• Quarterly estimated tax payments due on January 15, April 15, June 15, and September 15, 2025.  

• Corporate and pass-through entity tax returns originally due on March 15 and April 15, 2025.  

• Tax-exempt organization returns due on May 15, 2025.  

• Pass-through elective tax payments previously due on March 15 and June 15, 2025.  

Sales and Use Taxes (for Businesses)  

For businesses filing sales and use taxes, the state has extended the January 31, 2025, filing deadline to April 30, 2025.  

Disaster Loss Deduction  

Residents who have experienced significant property damage or loss may be eligible to claim a disaster loss deduction on their 2024 tax returns to expedite refunds.  

Who Is Eligible?  

Relief applies to individuals and businesses directly impacted by the Los Angeles wildfires, including those who either reside in or operate a business in areas covered by the Major Disaster Declaration. If you’re unsure whether you qualify, it’s a good idea to consult with a tax professional or contact the IRS and FTB directly.  

Practical Tips for Taxpayers  

Here’s what you can do right now to make the most of the IRS Relief for Los Angeles: 

1. Review Your Tax Situation  

Assess upcoming tax obligations to see how these extensions may benefit you. Whether it’s delaying your next quarterly payment or extending your filing deadline, you now have more room to adjust. 

1. Gather Documentation for Disaster Losses  

If you’ve suffered property damage, gather receipts, insurance reports, and photos of the damage to claim disaster loss deductions. These deductions may help you qualify for a quicker refund. 

1. Talk to Your Tax Preparer  

A professional can help ensure you meet all extended deadlines and make the best use of available deductions.  

1. Stay Updated  

Tax relief laws and guidelines can change. Check updates on the IRS and FTB websites to stay informed about deadlines and requirements.  

Additional Resources  

If you need further assistance, here are some resources to consult: 

• IRS Disaster Assistance Page  

Visit irs.gov/disaster for comprehensive guidance on federal relief measures. 

• California Franchise Tax Board Hotline  

Call the FTB Disaster Team at 800-852-5711 for personalized support with state tax matters. 

• Free Tax Assistance Programs  

Organizations like the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) programs offer free support to qualifying individuals. 

This disaster has left many in Los Angeles County struggling, but these tax relief measures offer some breathing room as residents work to rebuild their lives. Make sure to take advantage of the IRS Relief for Los Angeles extended deadlines, and don’t hesitate to reach out for personalized guidance if you need it. 

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