Eaton Fire Survivors Demand Investigation into State Farm Claims Handling

Survivors of the devastating Eaton Fire in Altadena, California, are demanding accountability from State Farm, alleging widespread delays, denials, and unresolved claims following the wildfire that destroyed thousands of homes and killed at least 17 residents. The Eaton Fire Survivors Network, a coalition of 1,700 members, has urged state Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara to formally investigate State Farm’s handling of claims, expedite all outstanding cases with interest, and deny the insurer's request for a 17% rate hike—the sixth in six years. Fire victims say their trauma has been compounded by State Farm's slow response and lowball offers, leaving many in dire financial situations and unable to return to their homes. State Farm maintains that it has paid over $3 billion in claims and is assisting customers, but many policyholders describe repeated failed attempts to get adequate help and coverage. The controversy comes as State Farm seeks to stabilize its financial position through rate increases, which were provisionally approved by state regulators pending further review. Advocacy groups like Consumer Watchdog are joining survivors in calling for greater oversight and reforms to ensure insurers fulfill their obligations to disaster victims.