Wildfire Resources

A Message from Our President and CEO

To our clients and community,

The devastation caused by the recent wildfires has touched all of us deeply.  As we witness the challenges so many of you are facing, whether it’s the loss of a home, disruption to your daily life, or the overwhelming process of rebuilding, please know you are not alone.  

At 1CB, we believe in the strength of our community and the power of coming together during a time of crisis.  This page was created to provide you with resources, guidance and support as you navigate the road to recovery. We understand that rebuilding will take time, and we are here to stand by you every step of the way.

Whether you need assistance with replacing checks or lost documents, or addressing impacted loans, our team is ready to provide the assistance you need.  Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us — we are here for you, your family and your business.

We are all in this together, and we will emerge stronger.  Let this page be a starting point for the information, resources and care you deserve during this difficult time.

With unwavering support,
Jason DiNapoli
President and CEO

Banking Locations — All 1st Century Bank Locations Remain Open

Financial Relief for Clients

Deposit Accounts: Consumer

Through February 7, 2025, on all consumer accounts, we will:
  • Waive ATM fees
  • Waive overdraft fees
  • Waive monthly maintenance fees
  • Waive savings excessive withdrawal fee
  • Waive fees for check or debit card replacement

Deposit Accounts — Business and Commercial

  • Please contact us if you have been impacted to discuss any accommodations you may need.

Credit Cards

  • Contact us if you are impacted to discuss additional assistance that may be available

Loan Accounts: Consumer and Commercial

If your property or collateral was damaged or destroyed, and you need assistance with replacing essential banking items like checks, debit cards or loan documents, we are here to help.  Just contact your banker to get started.

Our team is ready to assist. Depending on your needs and circumstances, relief available may include:

  • Adjusting loan terms for impacted properties
  • Freezing or deferring loan payments in some cases
  • Opening emergency lines of credit, if needed

How We are Helping the Community

Donations

We have contributed to both the American Red Cross and the Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation to aid wildfire recovery efforts. We will continue to explore opportunities to expand our impact in the weeks and months ahead.

Employee Volunteer Events

We have organized a number of paid volunteer days, allowing employees to support wildfire relief efforts.

Handling Insurance

  1. Contact Your Insurance Company – Get a complete copy of your insurance policy so you can find out how much you’re covered 1) to rebuild or repair your home; 2) for personal belongings; and 3) for living expenses. Knowing your policy will help you during the claim process.
  2. Document Your Loss – Take pictures of your home. Any evidence of your personal belongings, such as pictures, receipts or emails will help. After the fires are over, take pictures again before any repairs or rebuilding takes place. Keep a detailed written record of all communications with insurance representatives.
  3. Get Immediate Relief – Ask your insurance company for cash advances to pay for living expenses, including furnishing a new residence. Minimize your expenses as much as possible.
  4. Wait Before Accepting Insurance Settlements – Don’t accept settlements too quickly. That said, you can accept checks for living expenses and other assistance as long as the checks do not say “final payment.”
  5. Get Help for Your Business – Like with residential insurance, you will want to do many of the same things: mitigate losses, contact your insurance company and document losses. Business owners may be able to get help for loss of income, the cost of relocating and business interruption. You will want to make a list of business expenses you will incur or have been paying, like payroll. You will also need proof of income generated prior to the damage. Financial documents like tax returns, business contacts, financial statements and budgets will help.

These tips provide general information only and are not legal advice.

For more detailed guidance, read the CA Department of Insurance’s Top Ten Tips for Wildfire Claimants.

Protecting Yourself and Your Finances During Natural Disasters

Natural disasters often bring out the best in communities, but unfortunately, they can also attract scammers posing as contractors or charities to exploit the situation. These bad actors may attempt to obtain your financial or personal information or pressure you into fraudulent payments.

We encourage you to be cautious when sharing your personal or financial details and to always verify the legitimacy of organizations and individuals before making payments or providing sensitive information.

At 1st Century, we are committed to safeguarding your financial well-being, especially during challenging times. Our team is here to be a trusted resource during this time.

Funding Resources

State and Local Resources

Additional Resources

We are here for you.

We remain committed to supporting our community during these difficult times.  Please reach out to your banker for personalized assistance.  Together, we will rebuild and recover stronger than ever.