Southern California Wildfires Resources for Those Impacted

Current Emergency Incidents

Ongoing emergency responses in California, including all 10+ acre wildfires.

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1. Federal Assistance

FEMA Individual Assistance Program: Provides grants for temporary housing, home repairs, and other disaster-related expenses.
How to Apply:
- Visit DisasterAssistance.gov.
- Phone: Call FEMA’s toll-free number at 1-800-621-3362
- Required Information:
  - Social Security number
  - Insurance information
  - Damage description
  - Bank account details for direct deposit

2. State Assistance

California Disaster Assistance Act (CDAA):
- Offers financial aid for disaster-related costs.
- Contact: California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES)
- Phone: (916) 845-8110
- Email: RecoveryPayments@caloes.ca.gov

3. Nonprofit Organizations

California Fire Foundation’s Supplying Aid to Victims of Emergency (SAVE) Program:
- Provides $250 cash cards to eligible victims for immediate needs.
- How to Access: Distributed through local fire departments. Contact your local fire
  department to inquire about availability.
California Fire Foundation Disaster Relief: Offers financial assistance to communities affected
by wildfires. Visit California Fire Foundation Disaster Relief.

4. New LA County Map Offers Wildfire Victims Real-Time Updates on Property Damage

Los Angeles County launched a website providing a lifeline for residents affected by the wildfires, offering real-time updates on the status of their homes and properties. Recovery.lacounty.gov/palisades-fire allows users to input their address to see photos and a detailed assessment of their property’s condition.

5. Small Business Administration (SBA)

Disaster Loans-Home Disaster Loans: Low-interest loans for homeowners to repair or replace damaged property.
Visit SBA Disaster Assistance.
Call SBA’s Customer Service Center at 1-800-659-2955.

6. Local Resources

Disaster Help Center – California Department of Social Services:
Provides various services, including assistance with replacing lost documents and connecting with local aid. Visit Disaster Help Center.

7. Community Support-Local Assistance Centers (LACs)

Set up in affected areas to provide in-person support and resources.
- Monitor local news outlets for announcements.
- Contact local government offices for locations and hours
Important Considerations:
- Application Deadlines: Be aware of and adhere to deadlines for each assistance
  program.
- Documentation: Maintain thorough records of all communications, applications, and
  expenses related to your recovery efforts.

Resources from Meryl Suissa

Founder, Marshall Fire Community FB Group

Helpful Insurance Filing Tips

1. Work directly with your insurance company

Filing an insurance claim can be a lengthy process, so contact your insurance carrier/agent immediately, or use the mobile app and online portal provided by the insurance company

Verify claim-filing requirements and deadlines

2. You may get offer of assistance from third-party adjusters

Third-party adjusters are not allowed to solicit claims right away

The payments would come out of a resident’s claim settlement; once an individual contracts with a public adjuster, they will no longer be able to work directly with their insurance company.

3. California regulations require insurers to immediately pay at least one-third of the estimated value of personal belongings and four months’ worth of local rent

4. Document all damages thoroughly, including taking photos/videos, creating detailed inventory of damaged items, and if possible, keep damaged items for inspection by an adjuster

5. Keep all receipts for out-of-pocket expenses including temporary lodging

6. FEMA disaster assistance is available, as President Biden has approved a Major Disaster Declaration for LA country, making federal funding available to affected individuals. FEMA assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses, and money for food and essentials.

Visit fema.gov/assistance/individual/program
Use the FEMA mobile app
Call 1-800-621-FEMA (3362)

LA Times: If You Lost Your Home or Business in the Wildfires, Here’s What To Do Next

News

IRS: California wildfire victims qualify for tax relief; various deadlines postponed to Oct. 15

The Internal Revenue Service announced today tax relief for individuals and businesses in southern California affected by wildfires and straight-line winds that began on Jan. 7, 2025.

These taxpayers now have until Oct. 15, 2025, to file various federal individual and business tax returns and make tax payments.

The IRS is offering relief to any area designated by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Currently, individuals and households that reside or have a business in Los Angeles County qualify for tax relief.

The same relief will be available to any other counties added later to the disaster area. The current list of eligible localities is always available on the Tax relief in disaster situations page on IRS.gov.

Contact Us for More Information

MGO, DebtBook to Host Webinar on the Value of Modern Cash Management

For many treasury teams, cash management is an essential workflow, closely tied to economic outcomes and carrying high risk of fraud or mismanagement — that all too often is dependent on antiquated processes and tools.

That means idle cash is left underutilized, forecasting is inaccurate and unreliable, and fraud detection is dependent upon granular analysis of transactions and bank account setups.

DebtBook’s new Cash Management solution is designed to solve just these challenges. Purpose-built for government and nonprofit treasury teams, this powerful tool helps minimize risk, reduce costs, and improve financial performance.

Join MGO and DebtBook on Wednesday, January 29 at 10:00 am PT for a webinar discussing the value of modern cash management.

During this session, you’ll see how with Cash Management, your team can:

Build accurate cash forecasts to help you anticipate future cash needs and surpluses
Automate daily cash positioning for real-time visibility and strategic planning
Identify fraudulent transactions quickly to minimize risk
Uncover opportunities to earn more on idle cash with Bank Fee Analysis

Curtis Winar Joins MGO LLP as a New Cannabis Industry Partner

Los Angeles, CA, November 5, 2024 – MGO LLP, a top 50 CPA firm, is pleased to announce the addition of Curtis Winar, CPA/CFF, CVA as a Consulting and Tax Partner to broaden the services and insights for the firm’s nationally-leading cannabis practice. Curtis brings more than 20 years of experience providing strategic business consulting, tax planning and compliance, forensic accounting, business valuation, expert witness and litigation services, and other financial services. Curtis began working in the cannabis industry in Colorado in 2011 and now services cannabis clients throughout the United States.

In his new role, Curtis will work with National Cannabis Practice Leader, Scott Hammon, to help further bolster service offerings in the industry as the Firm continues to expand nationally, including increasing MGO’s presence throughout the Mid-South and Southeast regions of the United States.

MGO was one of the first national accounting firms to develop and provide accounting, audit, tax, and consulting services to the cannabis and hemp industries. Today, it prides itself on empowering companies and investors across the value chain having worked with more than 500 cannabis, hemp, CBD, and ancillary clients across all verticals — cultivators, retailers, distributors, manufacturers, and ancillary companies.

“We are thrilled to welcome Curtis to the firm,” said Scott Hammon. “He understands the industry and is deeply passionate about helping our clients navigate its many complexities and challenges. As we continue our growth in the promising Mid-South market, which includes Missouri, Arkansas, Kentucky, Tennessee, and Mississippi, as well as the Southeast market. Curtis’s knowledge will be instrumental in MGO continuing to meet its clients’ needs and solve their issues both regionally and nationally.”

Mr. Winar has worked with his clients on a variety of projects and regularly assists in strategic corporate and tax structuring, valuation and litigation consulting, and transaction advisory. He is a CPA licensed in Colorado (25401) and Arkansas (9791R), is a Certified Valuation Analyst (CVA), and holds a designation in Financial Forensics. Prior to joining MGO, Winar was a Partner of Strategic Services at Frost, PLLC, where he advised companies in various industries and founded and led its National Cannabis and Emerging Industries practice.

“I’m excited to join MGO and contribute to the historical and continued growth of the firm’s cannabis practice,” said Curtis. “MGO has long been a leader in providing innovative and comprehensive services to this dynamic industry, and I look forward to working alongside such a talented and passionate team. As the cannabis landscape continues to evolve, particularly in the Mid-South and Southeast regions, I’m eager to help our clients seize the opportunities ahead.”

Mr. Winar has served on the board for the Veterans for Energy Security and Independence, a not-for-profit with volunteer members representing all branches and ranks of the military to deliver the message that energy security equates to national security, was appointed by Governor John Hickenlooper as a member of Securities Board for the Colorado Division of Securities, advising the Securities Commissioner in connection with the Commissioner’s duties including, but not limited to, the creation of rules, issuance of orders, formulation of policies, setting of fees, and other issues affecting securities regulation in Colorado, and is involved in various not-for-profit organizations. He is also a Banking and Finance Committee Member for the National Cannabis Industry Association.

About MGO

A top-50 CPA firm in the U.S., MGO was one of the first national accounting firms to develop and provide targeted accounting, audit, tax, and consulting services to the cannabis and hemp industries. We have helped numerous cannabis companies with their go-public and liquidity transactions. Today, we provide industry-leading experience and a suite of solutions to help operators, ancillary companies, institutional investors, and brands navigate the complexities of the cannabis and hemp industries.

Celebrating a Gift of Hope to the Center for Family Justice from MGO Cares

After being selected as MGO’s 2024 Humanitarian of the Year, Market Growth Director Lindsay Balazsi presented a donation check on behalf of MGO Cares to the Center for Family Justice (CFJ), a critical community resource in providing free, confidential, and inclusive services to those affected by domestic and sexual violence. Assurance Partner Michael Corkery, based in our Melville office, assisted in the presentation.

Lindsay’s connection with CJF goes beyond this check presentation though. “I worked with them a bit when I was at a law firm years ago,” she said. “I did some of their ‘Walk a Mile in Her Shoes’ walks, but recently reconnected because a friend of mine is one of their trilingual sex trafficking clinicians.”

CFJ’s mission is to break the cycle of abuse and violence, providing hope, restoring lives, and driving social change through education and collaboration. It specializes in addressing the trauma of children and teens who have suffered from sexual and domestic abuse, and their services extend to individuals of any gender identity, sexual orientation, or immigration status.

For Lindsay, the act of giving back goes deeper than financial support. “It’s so rewarding to help those in need who may not understand the judicial system — or don’t know how to get out of an abusive situation alone,” she said. “Everyone deserves a chance… everyone deserves hope in a secure and safe future. This is one way to work towards that.”

Her approach to volunteering comes from a place of compassion, but also practicality. “It doesn’t take a lot. Just a good attitude, some of your time, and a genuine desire to want better for those in our community. You don’t have to just pour money into a cause.”

Thank you, Lindsay, for reminding us of the power of giving, and the importance we can all make in our communities when we prioritize this pillar of human care. At MGO Cares, we’re proud to support Lindsay and team members like her who strive to bring hope and healing to those in need.

MGO, SullivanCurtisMonroe and American Business Bank to Host Economic Forecast Webinar

In the face of rising risks—historic rate hikes, geopolitical tensions, commercial real estate struggles, banking sector instability, and looming recession concerns—the US economy has defied the odds, showing unexpected strength.

But how long can the storm be weathered? Will inflation fade, and will the Fed pivot again? Are we on the verge of a soft landing, or are harsher conditions ahead?

Join SullivanCurtisMonroe, MGO, and American Business Bank as we host Mira Farka, Ph.D., from California State University Fullerton. Dr. Farka will explore the most pressing economic questions, including

Is inflation truly in the rearview mirror?
How will the upcoming election shape economic policy?
Is a stock market correction imminent?
Will large budget deficits hinder future growth?
What’s next for the banking and real estate sectors?
Will the housing market stabilize?
What’s the outlook for Orange County versus the broader US economy?

Prepare for the storm ahead with insights into how to navigate and thrive in these turbulent times.

Dr. Farka will take a deep dive into all the above and conclude with a Q&A session.

REGISTER

MGO Partner Discusses Cannabis Tax Challenges on ‘This is Supercritical’ Podcast

MGO Tax Partner Barbara Webb recently joined Supercritical co-founder Kerry Jordan on the This Is Supercritical podcast for an eye-opening conversation on the tax and accounting challenges facing cannabis businesses. From navigating IRS Code 280E to uncovering true business ownership and preparing for IRS audits, Barbara shared invaluable insights every cannabis operator should hear.

This Is Supercritical is a podcast “where experience, equity, and expertise come together to extract the essence of what’s happening in the cannabis industry today”. Barbara appears on season one, episode nine of the podcast titled “Tax and Accounting Considerations”. You can access the episode on all the standard podcast platforms — including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and more. You can also watch the video version of the episode here.

MGO LLP Names Azunna Anyanwu as New Chief Information Officer

MGO LLP, a top 50 CPA firm, is excited to announce the addition of Azunna Anyanwu as the firm’s new Chief Information Officer (CIO). With more than 20 years of extensive experience in leading and advising large-scale operations on business, technology, and cybersecurity issues, Azunna is equipped to bring innovative solutions and unparalleled agility to the firm.

In his new role, Azunna will oversee MGO’s IT strategy, technology operations, and infrastructure, ensuring robust cybersecurity measures and spearheading the firm’s digital transformation initiatives. He will work closely with the leadership team to align technology with the firm’s business and growth goals and drive efficiencies across the organization.

“Azunna’s track record of delivering cutting-edge technology solutions, as well as his deep expertise in cybersecurity, make him a fantastic addition to MGO,” said Kevin O’Connell, CEO and Managing Partner. “We are confident that the innovative approach he brings to his work and his swift ability to adapt with the changing technological landscape will help propel us forward as we grow and adapt to the evolving needs of our clients.”

Azunna is an award-winning technology executive and founded his own company, The Agile CIO. Throughout his career as a CIO/CTO, he has helped numerous organizations rapidly transform their IT to improve overarching business outcomes. His approach is unique, leveraging dexterous principles to address client business challenges quickly and effectively. Employing a servant-leader approach, he has been recognized for his ability to manage, develop, and mentor teams.

Before joining MGO, Azunna served as Chief Information Officer at Aprio, where he provided strategic leadership for the firm’s IT operations, infrastructure, and cybersecurity activities. He also led technical integration efforts related to mergers and acquisitions.

“I’m thrilled to join MGO and lead its vision of leveraging technology to drive business success for its clients,” said Azunna. “I look forward to enhancing the firm’s IT capabilities.”

Azunna holds several certifications, including Project Management Professional (PMP) and PMI Agile Certified Practitioner (PMI-ACP). He received a Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science from Harvard University and a Master of Science in Computer Science from The Johns Hopkins University. He also obtained an Executive Master of Business Administration (MBA) from the Quantic School of Business and Technology. He enjoys giving back, serving on The Johns Hopkins University Engineering Alumni Leadership Committee.

MGO is confident that Azunna’s leadership and expertise will guide the firm’s technological capabilities, ultimately contributing to continued success and perpetuated growth.

About MGO

MGO is a global team of financial service professionals serving the full scope of needs shaping our clients’ business and personal goals. Our team members stand ready to help our clients grow through assurance, tax, advisory, outsourcing, and private client services. 

With human care at the core of everything we do, we provide outstanding service experiences, delivered with sophisticated digital tools that work effortlessly for our clients. 

We are honored to work alongside innovators in culture-defining industries. Whether serving a pre-revenue startup, industry leader, high-net-worth individual, or trusted government agency, we provide holistic financial guidance to shape long-term success.  

Kyle O’Rourke Joins MGO LLP as a New State and Local Government Advisory Partner

MGO LLP, a top 50 CPA firm, is pleased to announce the addition of Kyle O’Rourke as a State and Local Government (SLG) Advisory Partner in our Chicago office. Kyle brings more than a decade of experience in leading and managing transformation, planning, and risk initiatives for government entities.

In his new role, Kyle will focus on providing Risk, Internal Audit and Operational Improvement services to State and Local governments across the country.

“Kyle is an outstanding professional with a proven track record in the SLG sector. As governments negotiate an increasingly complex risk landscape, and seek to improve operational effectiveness for their communities, Kyle can serve as a beacon for such initiatives,” said Kevin O’Connell, CEO and Managing Partner.

O’Rourke has served a diverse range of clients, from public utilities and government entities to nonprofits and higher education. He is a Certified Internal Auditor and holds additional IIA designations in Risk Management Assurance and Government Auditing.

Active in the internal audit professional community, Kyle serves as a board member on the Chicago Chapter of the IIA. He has previously served as the Chapter President and has received multiple awards including the Member of the Year and Educator of the year. He is also passionate about sharing his knowledge of audit techniques and strategies for the public sector.

Prior to joining MGO, Kyle was an integral leader at Controlled Thermal Resources and held a key role in the public sector with Baker Tilly US.

About MGO

With human care at the core of everything we do, we provide outstanding service experiences, delivered with sophisticated digital tools that work effortlessly for our clients.

Our global platform serves clients in more than 100 countries and in 40 different languages. From offices throughout the U.S., India, and Asia, we engage our clients in real-time when and where they need us the most. We are honored to work alongside innovators in culture-defining industries. Whether serving a pre-revenue startup, industry leader, high-net-worth individual, or trusted government agency, we provide holistic financial guidance to shape long-term success.

MGO SLG Leader to Speak at 2024 SACA Spring Conference

The MGO state and local government (SLG) team will be attending the California 114th State Association of County Auditors (SACA) Spring Conference from April 22-25.

MGO team members attending the 2024 CALSACA Spring Conference include:

State and Local Government Industry Leader David Bullock
Assurance Partner Kevin Starkey
Senior Manager Russ Robertson

In addition to attending the event, MGO SLG practice leader David Bullock will be presenting at the conference. David will be speaking on the topic “GASB 100, 101, and 102 Practical Applications” on Wednesday, April 24.

The 114th CALSACA Spring Conference will be held at the Ritz-Carlton Highlands Court in Truckee, CA, and hosted by Placer County. If you will be attending the event and would like to set up a time to meet with the MGO SLG team, please reach out to us today.

MGO Cannabis Industry Leader to Speak at NAFOA Conference

MGO Partner and Cannabis Industry Leader Scott Hammon will speak at the 42nd Annual Native American Finance Officers Association (NAFOA) Conference on April 30 from 4-5 p.m. EST.

Scott will be part of the panel “Cannabis: The High Stakes of Indian Country Development“, discussing the current status of cannabis development in Indian Country and the barriers facing the industry — including regulation and banking policy, and the role competition plays in efforts to resolve problems.

Along with Scott, the panel will also include Tina Braithwaite, Tribal Cannabis Consultant of Sovereign Nations Cannabis Consulting, and Mary Jane Oatman, Executive Director/COO of Indigenous Cannabis Industry Association. The panel will be moderated by Rob Porter, Principal at Odawi Law PLLC.

As the leader of MGO’s Cannabis practice, Scott is at the forefront of the cannabis industry. He holds a deep understanding of both the challenges and opportunities that operators and investors face; and brings a comprehensive knowledge of financial best practices — supporting our clients from the early development stages through to a sale, IPO, or RTO.

The NAFOA 42nd Annual Conference will be held at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino (hosted by the Seminole Tribe of Florida) in Hollywood, Florida, April 29-30. If you will be attending NAFOA, reach out to schedule a time to meet with Scott.

Meet with MGO at the GFOAT Spring Conference

Our State and Local Government team will be attending the 2024 Government Finance Officers Association of Texas (GFOAT) Spring Conference from April 14-16 at Kalahari Resorts and Conventions in Round Rock, Texas.

Attending the event will be:

State and Local Government Industry Leader David Bullock
Assurance Senior Manager Philip Stringer
Assurance Supervisor Kylie Perez

Stop by our booth to talk to our team and win some great prizes. Or, if you would like to set up a time to meet with us at GFOAT, reach out to our state and local government team today.

MGO State and Local Government Practice Leader to Present at CalCPA Virtual Conference

Government professionals looking to stay current on finance and audit can register now for the CalCPA Governmental Accounting & Auditing Virtual Conference 2024 on April 24-25. The event will take place exclusively online.

MGO State and Local Government Industry Leader and Partner David Bullock will be a featured speaker at the conference, leading the session “Lessons Learned on Leases and SBITA” on April 24 from 11:35 a.m. – 12:25 p.m. PT. In the presentation, David will explore the intricacies of GASB 87 and GASB 96, unravel the complexities of lease accounting standards, and share practical approaches for compliance.

Topics of David’s presentation will include:

Identifying new lease contracts
Materiality thresholds for applying principles
Evaluating the impact of amendments
Determining carrying value of leased assets and amortizations
MD&A disclosures
Reference to restatement – impact of implementation of GASB 87/96

The CalCPA Governmental Accounting & Auditing Virtual Conference will provide timely information on GASB updates and perspectives on strategic priorities and hot topics. You’ll also gain insights into what’s happening at the local and federal levels. You can view the full agenda for the event and register to attend here.

As the head of MGO’s state and local government practice, David Bullock provides financial services to some of the largest governmental organizations across the country. Along with David’s leadership at MGO, he is heavily involved in shaping the accounting and auditing profession at a state-wide and national level.

David recently completed a three-year term on the AICPA State and Local Government Expert Panel, and he continues to serve the CalCPA Governmental Accounting and Auditing Committee. David also participates on the task force that assists with the Governmental Accounting Standards Board’s (GASB) Financial Reporting Model project.

To learn more about David’s presentation or if you have questions for him, reach out today.