The California Tort Claims Act sets out strict guidelines for filing your claim with a governmental entity. You must file: Within 6 months of the incident for:.Under the FTCA, the federal government acts as a self-insurer, and recognizes liability for the negligent or wrongful acts or omissions of its employees. A strict statutory requirement exists in California requiring that a "government tort claim" be brought before suing a public entity for money or damages. The Federal Tort Claims Act prescribes a uniform procedure for handling of claims against the United States, for money damages only. These kinds of claims are not discussed in this guide. We understand that this means you have to fill out a lot of forms and that the prison may not respond. Information on claims and reports for county employees related to liability and property damage and loss. It's not quite that simple if you're dealing with a government entity, but the California Tort Claims Act (CTCA) allows you to receive fair compensation. In general, the Tort Claims Act sets forth the time limits for filing a claim for money or damages.