California Offers Tax Relief for Businesses Impacted by Los Angeles Wildfires

In response to the devastating wildfires affecting Los Angeles County, Governor Gavin Newsom announced on January 7, 2025, that the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration (CDTFA) will extend tax filing deadlines to provide relief for affected businesses. According to the press release, businesses in Los Angeles County will now have until April 30, 2025, to file their sales and use tax returns, an extension of three months from the original January 31 deadline.

РУССКАЯ КАЛИФОРНИЯ — RUSSIAN CALIFORNIA — Governor Newsom emphasized the state’s commitment to supporting local businesses during this challenging time:
«California is taking greater action to continue supporting businesses that have been devastated by the Southern California wildfires. We are strong because of the diversity of our businesses, and we stand by them – providing relief to aid them through this difficult time.»

Additionally, taxpayers in Los Angeles County are granted a postponement until October 15, 2025, to file California income tax returns and make tax payments for 2024.

The relief measures include:

Automatic extensions: Sales and use tax returns and payments originally due by January 31, 2025, are now extended until April 30, 2025, for businesses with tax liabilities under $1 million.
Penalty and interest relief: Businesses requiring further assistance can request additional relief beyond the automatic extension.
Record replacement: CDTFA offers free replacements for tax records lost or damaged during the fires.
Account updates: Businesses can update addresses, open or close locations, or obtain seller’s permits without additional burdens.

CDTFA Director Nick Maduros highlighted the importance of these measures:
«The loss resulting from these fires is devastating for business owners who have invested so much and worked so hard to succeed. Beyond the automatic extension, we encourage taxpayers who need help with any CDTFA program to reach out to us. Our team members are here to help taxpayers navigate their way to recovery.»

While this tax relief primarily focuses on Los Angeles County, CDTFA stated that similar assistance may be extended to businesses in other affected areas upon request.

The state government, under Governor Newsom’s leadership, is working tirelessly to ensure that Californians receive the necessary resources and support during these trying times. For more details on the relief programs, affected business owners are encouraged to contact CDTFA directly.