When disaster strikes, families need more than just hope—they need real solutions. With the recent Los Angeles wildfires leaving homes destroyed and families displaced, Assembly Bill 238 (AB 238), also known as the Mortgage Forbearance Act, has been signed into law to provide urgent financial relief for impacted homeowners.
What AB 238 Does
AB 238 allows eligible homeowners whose properties were destroyed or rendered uninhabitable by the wildfires to request mortgage payment forbearance. This means:
An initial forbearance period of 90 days, with the option to extend in 90-day increments for up to 12 months.Protection against late fees, penalties, extra interest, foreclosure proceedings, and negative credit impacts.Requirements for mortgage servicers to respond within 10 business days to forbearance requests, provide clear explanations for denials, and notify borrowers of documentation needed for extensions.Additionally, the California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation (DFPI) will oversee compliance and provide homeowners with resources, guidelines, and a borrower assistance hotline.
Why This Matters
The aftermath of the Los Angeles wildfires has devastated communities—not only through the destruction of homes, but also through the financial strain placed on families. AB 238 ensures that impacted homeowners can focus on recovery, rebuilding, and receiving insurance payouts without the immediate fear of foreclosure.
At Fidelity National Title, we believe in standing with our communities in times of crisis. As the top title company and trusted partner to real estate professionals, our mission is to provide clarity, resources, and guidance—helping homeowners and agents alike navigate challenges with confidence.
If you or your clients have been impacted, contact your mortgage servicer immediately to explore forbearance options under AB 238. For additional assistance, you can also reach out to DFPI or visit the official resources linked below.
📞 Call/Text Ryan J. Orr at (909) 767-0718 or visit TeamTitleGuy.com to schedule a strategy session today.
