Storm victims can file for disaster relief on their tax return this year. President Obama declared Riverside County a major disaster, paving the way for disaster relief. Our county and city governments will also get some much needed help.
According to the California Franchise Tax Board, taxpayers, whose property was damaged between the period of January 17, 2010 to February 6, 2010 can claim disaster losses on a 2009 tax return. Claiming the loss will allow the FTB to issue refunds quickly.
There was considerable storm damage in the Coachella Valley this past January. At least eight homes in Mecca had flood damage. At least one store in Palm Springs also had its roof damaged due to heavy rain.
Taxpayers should write "California Winter Storms 2010" in red ink at the top of their tax return to alert FTB to expedite the refund.
If you've already filed a 2009 tax return, you can still file an amended return to claim losses.
The Riverside County Office of Emergency Services said the county and cities had at least $12 million dollars in damage to roads and infrastructure during the winter storm.
As a result of the declaration, the state and federal government will reimburse local governments for most of the cost to repair the damage.
