How do I apply for the Brace + Bolt grant?

Brace + Bolt, often called EBB, is a California grant program that may provide up to about $3,000 toward certain qualifying earthquake retrofit work. The exact amount, rules, and timing can change, so it is smart to check the current program details before you start.

In general, the program is meant to support approved seismic strengthening work on eligible homes, such as work that may include foundation bolting and bracing of a crawl space cripple wall. Whether this type of work applies to your home depends on an on-site assessment by a licensed contractor or engineer. BedrockMatch is a free matching service, not a contractor or engineer.

A grant can help with cost, but it does not mean every home qualifies or that every retrofit scope will be covered. If you want local help finding companies that perform this work, you can get matched, free.

Eligibility usually depends on a mix of factors, including the home's location, age, foundation type, and construction details. Some homes fit the program well, and some do not. A contractor can confirm whether your house appears to match the program's retrofit type after looking at the home.

Homeowner occupancy and other program rules may also matter. Because requirements can change from year to year, it is best to treat online examples as general guidance, not a promise.

Typical things the program may look at include:

• Whether the home is in an eligible ZIP Code or program area
• Whether the house is an owner-occupied single-family home
• Whether the house has features that match the program's qualifying retrofit type
• Whether the application is submitted during an open registration period

If you are not sure whether your home may fit, start by checking the current program website and then ask a licensed contractor or engineer for an on-site opinion.

Brace + Bolt does not always accept applications year-round. Many homeowners apply during a set registration window, so timing matters. If registration is closed, you may need to wait for the next opening.

The application is usually made through the program's official online portal. Before spending money, read the current rules carefully so you understand deadlines, approval steps, and what work is eligible.

If you are planning your project, it can also help to learn about timing for permits and construction. These guides may help: How long does a seismic retrofit take? and Do I need a permit for a seismic retrofit?.

It is easier to apply if you collect basic information before the registration window opens. The exact document list may vary, but most homeowners should expect to provide identity, address, and home details.

You may also need information from a contractor later in the process, especially if the program asks for a bid, scope, permit details, or completion paperwork. Confirm the current checklist on the official grant site.

Common items may include:

1. Your name and contact information
2. Property address and proof that you own and live in the home
3. Basic house details, such as year built and foundation or crawl space information
4. Insurance information, if requested by the program
5. Contractor license and bid documents, if required at that stage
6. Photos, permits, invoices, or completion documents after work is finished

Keep digital copies in one folder so you can upload them quickly if the application period is short.

The exact steps can change, but the process usually follows the same general path: registration, eligibility review, contractor selection, approved work, and final paperwork. Read each instruction closely, because missing a deadline can delay or end an application.

A typical process looks like this:

1. Register during the open application period
2. Receive notice about whether you were selected or conditionally approved
3. Review program rules and deadlines
4. Get an on-site assessment and quote from a licensed contractor
5. Obtain permits if required by your city or county
6. Complete the qualifying work and keep all records
7. Submit final documents for reimbursement, if the program requires that format

Do not assume any retrofit work will qualify just because a house is older or in earthquake country. A licensed professional needs to look at the home and confirm the scope. If you need help finding local companies familiar with this kind of work, BedrockMatch can help you compare options through our help center.

After you apply, you may receive an email or portal notice about your status. Some homeowners move forward quickly, while others are asked for more information or must wait for the next step. Keep checking your email, including spam folders, so you do not miss a deadline.

If you are approved or conditionally approved, read the fine print before scheduling work. Many programs require specific steps, documents, and timing. Starting too early, using the wrong scope, or missing permit paperwork can create problems.

If you are not selected, do not panic. You may be able to apply in a later round, ask a contractor for a cost estimate anyway, or check whether other hazard-mitigation programs, including some FEMA-related grant opportunities, may apply in your area. Always check whether you qualify; availability is not guaranteed.

If your application moves forward, take time to compare contractors carefully. The homeowner keeps control over who to hire. BedrockMatch does not tell you which company to choose, and matching is free to homeowners.

Before you sign anything, ask each contractor to explain the proposed scope in plain language and confirm what is included in writing. Because every home is different, price and method can vary based on site conditions, access, permits, and repairs found during the job.

At a minimum, you should:

• Verify the contractor's license yourself
• Confirm bond and insurance directly
• Ask whether they have experience with this type of retrofit and permit process
• Review the written scope, payment schedule, and cleanup details
• Make sure grant paperwork responsibilities are clear in writing

If you want introductions to local vetted contractors, you can get matched, free.