Last Updated: 6/1/2026

Q: Is participation voluntary?

A: Yes. Claimants may accept or reject an offer, request a Detailed Review, or pursue litigation instead.

Q: Does filing a claim waive my rights?

A: No. And receiving an offer does not waive your rights either. Any path to compensation — whether through SCE’s program, mediation or litigation — ultimately requires a settlement agreement that resolves claims. The difference is timing, not the requirement to settle.

Q: How does insurance affect an offer?

A: Depending on the circumstances, what you receive in an offer may factor in your insurance. See the FAQ and examples for more details.

Q: Can I request a review if I think my offer is too low?

A: Yes. A claimant may introduce new information or request a Detailed Review. Economic valuation may go higher, lower or stay the same. If the Detailed Review results in a lower offer, the claimant can still accept the original Fast Pay offer.

Q: Do renters get different compensation than property owners?

A: Eligible tenants may receive compensation for their own documented losses, such as personal property and additional living expenses, while structural damages generally apply to property owners.

Q: Can I decline an offer after submitting a claim?

A: Yes. Participation in SCE’s Wildfire Recovery Compensation Program is voluntary. If you receive an offer and choose not to accept it, you are not required to proceed. The program is intended to provide a faster alternative to litigation, but the decision to accept an offer is entirely yours.

Q: Does a streamlined process mean offers are lower?

A: No. A streamlined process is meant to make claim review and payments faster, not to reduce compensation. The program is designed to offer compensation in line with settlement values for similar claims in past wildfire lawsuits. A faster process does not mean a lower offer.

Q: Does SCE’s program offer lower settlements than litigation?

A: No. Program offers are designed to be comparable to settlements reached in past wildfire litigation. Offers have ranged from $15.1 million for a claimant with multiple properties to $15,000 for a tenant with non-burn damage. While each claim is evaluated individually, the program is intended to provide fair offers and faster compensation through a more streamlined process than traditional litigation.

Q: Were independent experts involved in designing the program?

A: Yes. Independent third-party experts were consulted on the design of the program. SCE worked with Kenneth R. Feinberg and Camille S. Biros, who are widely recognized for their work in compensation fund design and administration. In addition, SCE engaged RAND, a highly regarded nonprofit research organization, to thoroughly and independently assess the valuation of eligible properties. The Santa Monica-based firm published its report and found that the estimates of pre- and post-fire property values, developed by Compass Lexecon, were thoughtfully done and well-executed.