USAA Helping Members Impacted by the Los Angeles Fires

Our thoughts are with all of those impacted by the fires in LA. We understand the challenges you are facing and want to offer our support during this difficult time. We are committed to helping you every step of the way.

As a USAA member, you have access to a wide range of resources to help you navigate these circumstances. This page is dedicated to providing you with the resources and guidance you need. Remember, you are not alone. Our commitment to you extends beyond just insurance. We’re here to help you and your communities recover and rebuild.

Please explore these resources to help guide you.

• USAA Wildfire Help Page: Steps to take if you've been impacted by wildfire
• CA.gov/LAfires: The primary website for accessing California state resources related to wildfires, including information on FEMA assistance, housing options, and local support services.
• usa.gov/california-wildfires: USA.gov helps you locate and understand government benefits, programs, and information.
• FEMA Disaster Assistance: Register for federal disaster assistance online at DisasterAssistance.gov or by calling 1-800-621-3362.
• Red Cross: Contact the American Red Cross for emergency shelters, food, and emotional support. 
• California Department of Social Services: Provides disaster assistance through the State Supplemental Grant Program (SSGP) and Disaster Case Management Program (DCMP).
• California Employment Development Department: Offers unemployment assistance to those impacted by wildfire job losses.
• 211 LA: Local resource hotline to find immediate support like temporary housing and shelter options.
• Crisis Text Line: Text "HOME" to 741741 for free, confidential mental health support.

• Army Emergency Relief
• Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society
• Air Force Aid Society
• Coast Guard Mutual Assistance
• National Guard Relief Foundation

Q: How can I find out what my claim will cover? You can check your claim status and reach out to your adjuster at the USAA Claims Center.

Q: When is it safe to return to my home or neighborhood? Check evacuation status on the LA County Emergency page.

Q: Where can I find in-person assistance? California has Disaster Recovery Centers that you can visit. You can plan that visit at the California Get Help in Person page.  You can find additional resources at FEMA.

Q: I received payment from USAA, what should I do now? Deposit your check into a dedicated checking or savings account with immediate access. You will need this money over the next days, weeks, months, and possible year for your living expenses, replacing items and rebuilding. It is not wise to invest this money with such a short time frame and risk the potential of negatively impacting your finances.

1. Take care of yourself, your family, and pets first
   
   
2. Make a list of next steps prioritizing what you need to do
   
   
3. Save all of your receipts related to the fire for documentation and tax deductions
   
   
4. 5 steps to getting back on your feet after a disaster

Q: I have Medicare Supplement (Medigap) Insurance, but have had to relocate due to the fires, how can I ensure my coverage will still apply?

1. If you are forced to live in a different location in California (or another state) temporarily, your Medigap policy provides flexibility to allow you to go to any doctor that accepts Medicare.  This means you can choose to see any doctor or hospital that takes Medicare assignments across the United States.
   
   
2. There are NO network restrictions associated with your Medigap policy.  You can see any doctor or specialist that accepts Medicare without needing referrals.
   
   
3. The Medigap policy lowers out-of-pocket costs.  It helps to pay for expenses that Medicare doesn’t fully cover, reducing your financial burden for medical services.
   
   
4. Your Medigap policy cannot be cancelled as long as you pay your premium.  It is guaranteed renewable even if you develop health conditions.

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Last updated January 31, 2024