How your GoFundMe could impact your FEMA payout

• This has prompted social media warnings about treading carefully with the wording of online fundraisers, including by using general language or words like "temporary" in the descriptions of GoFundMe pages.

Zoom in: If a person lists specific disaster-related expenses on a GoFundMe page (like home repairs) they won't be able to receive FEMA funding for the same expenses.

• This also applies to money or items received from charities and nonprofits, a FEMA spokesperson told Axios.
• The agency typically tracks this by asking people applying for aid if there is any funding that is going to replace the item, whether through insurance or otherwise, the spokesperson said.
• If funding is denied, individuals can appeal the FEMA decision.

Yes, but there are many different types of aid available through FEMA and "we review each application to ensure you receive the aid for which you are eligible," the agency says.

• "We encourage all survivors to apply for assistance regardless so we can review your specific case."

Between the lines: Getting help from the government after a natural disaster can be a slow and lengthy process for families trying to recover and rebuild.

• The more immediate assistance from loved ones and community members through fundraising platforms can fill the gaps.

Go deeper:

• What to do with student loans if you've been impacted by L.A.-area fires
• How to apply for FEMA $770 payment for California fires
• SoCal faces fresh wildfire threats as L.A. area marks a week of blazes