Below are resources for people in Washington who have been financially impacted by wildfire.
Homeowners and Mortgages
If your home was damaged or you cannot make your mortgage payments, contact your lender right away. Many mortgage companies offer help, such as pausing payments for a while or changing the payment plan, for people affected by a disaster.
- If I Can't Pay My Mortgage Loan, What Are My Options? - Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB)
- Washington Homeownership Resource Center - Get connected to a local housing counselor.
- Fannie Mae Disaster Relief - If Fannie Mae owns your loan, you may qualify for reduced or paused mortgage payments for up to 12 months. Call 855-HERE2HELP (855-437-3243) for disaster recovery counseling.
- Freddie Mac Disaster Relief - If Freddie Mac owns your loan, you may qualify for up to 12 months of relief without late fees or penalties.
Credit Cards, Loans, and Other Debts
Lenders may offer hardship programs for people affected by a disaster.
- What Should I Do If I Can't Pay My Credit Card Bills? - Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB)
- Rebuilding Your Finances After a Disaster - CFPB hub with disaster recovery tools
Student Loans
- Help for Borrowers Affected by a Disaster - U.S. Department of Education; explains options for pausing federal student loan payments
Insurance Claims
The Washington State Office of the Insurance Commissioner (OIC) provides information on filing insurance claims.
- How to File a Homeowner Insurance Claim - Washington State Office of the Insurance Commissioner
- How to File an Auto Insurance Claim - Washington State Office of the Insurance Commissioner
- Washington State Insurance Consumer Hotline - 800-562-6900. Call with questions about claims, coverage, or licensed adjusters.
Taxes
If you lost property in a disaster and it was not covered by insurance, you may be able to claim it on your taxes.
- Help for Disaster Victims - Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
- Tax Relief for Disasters - Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
Replacing Records and Getting into Your Accounts
If you lost checks, cards, or important papers in the fire, your bank or credit union may be able to help you. You can often use online banking, a banking app, or go to another branch for help.
- Rebuilding Records After a Disaster - Internal Revenue Service (IRS); tips for replacing lost financial papers
Watch Out for Scams
Scams often increase after wildfire. Watch for fake contractors, fake charities, and people who ask for money to "help" with your insurance claim.
- Avoiding Scams After a Disaster - Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB)
- Avoid Charity Fraud - Washington Attorney General’s Office
- Washington Attorney General’s Office - Report a scam to the Washington State Office of the Attorney General.
More Help
- WA211.org - Dial 211 for help with food, shelter, and more - available anytime
- Washington Emergency Management Division - State disaster preparedness and recovery information
- American Red Cross - Emergency shelter, food, and immediate disaster help
- DisasterAssistance.gov - Federal disaster help (becomes available if your area receives a federal disaster declaration)