Wildfires have wrought havoc across California, and the widespread destruction and uncertainty are leaving tens of thousands stranded. Almost 130,000 people have been evacuated, nearly 2,000 homes destroyed, and every part of California is experiencing power outages affecting over 400,000 homes and businesses.
Recovery efforts to rebuild will have a critical step in recovering significant documents, considering that individuals will need tax records and important papers that can be used in casualty loss deductions or applications for assistance from federal and state agencies. This guide will help individuals recover tax records, vital documents, and much more in the aftermath of the disaster.
Rebuilding with recovered tax records
Tax records are invaluable for verifying income, property ownership, and losses that qualify for federal deductions or disaster relief programs. If you’ve lost these documents, here’s how to recover them.
Federal tax records
The IRS offers free recovery of federal tax records, including W-2s, 1099s, and prior tax returns. You can retrieve these documents through the following methods:
- Online: Use the Get Transcript tool on IRS.gov.
- By Phone: Call 800-908-9946 to request return transcripts.
- By Mail: File Form 4506, Request for Copy of Tax Return, to receive physical copies.
California state tax records
For state-level tax documents, California residents can request copies of tax returns through the California Franchise Tax Board (FTB). Disaster victims are eligible for free access to their records. Here’s how:
1. Online: Access your records via MyFTB on the FTB website.
2. By Mail: Submit Form FTB 3516, Request for Copy of Tax Return, or write a formal request.
Personal income tax records are available for the last three and a half years, while partnership and corporate returns can be retrieved for the past five years.
Claiming casualty loss deductions
Once tax records are recovered, you can claim casualty loss deductions on your federal income tax return. These deductions cover personal-use property or business losses not fully reimbursed by insurance. To claim these deductions, complete the following:
- File Schedule A (Form 1040) or an amended return using Form 1040-X.
- Include Form 4684 to report disaster-related losses.
If the disaster is federally declared, you can opt to deduct losses on the prior year’s tax return for faster financial recovery.
Replacing other vital documents
Wildfires often destroy more than just tax records. Key documents like birth certificates, passports, and driver’s licenses are essential to access government aid, insurance, and other services. Here’s how to recover them:
- Vital Records (Birth, Death, and Marriage Certificates)
- The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) provides assistance for recovering vital records lost in disasters.
- Online Resources: Visit the CDPH website to access a digital list of county recorders.
- By Phone: Call 916-445-2684 (TTY: 7-1-1).
DMV documents
For lost driver’s licenses, identification cards, or vehicle titles, contact the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
Phone Support: Call 800-777-0133 (TTY: 800-368-4327).
Online Services: Visit the DMV website to apply for replacements.
Passports
If your passport was lost or damaged, federal law waives some fees for disaster victims. To replace your passport:
1. Complete Form DS-5504 (Replacement Passport Form).
2. Submit Form DS-64 (Lost or Stolen Passport Form), including details about the disaster and the date of loss.
3. Provide a new passport photo.
If you need a passport urgently (within three weeks), make an appointment at a passport agency or center immediately.
What’s next for wildfire victims
Federal disaster assistance and tax relief programs, including the recently signed Federal Disaster Tax Relief Act, aid California wildfire survivors. This legislation extends relief to disaster victims retroactively for up to 10 years and for disasters that occur within 60 days of December 12, 2024.
During recovery efforts, watch updates from the IRS and local officials about new forms of relief and extended deadlines. Recovering your records soon and filing claims for aid are important steps in rebuilding your life after this disaster.
