Last week, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced the opening of the financial assistance application process for landowners who faced discrimination in USDA farm lending programs before January 2021. The program aims to provide support to eligible individuals, and the application can be submitted online or via mail until October 31, 2023.
“The opening of the application process is an important step in delivering on our commitment of providing financial assistance to those who faced discrimination in USDA farm lending, as swiftly and efficiently as possible. USDA will continue to work with our national vendor partners and community-based organizations to make sure eligible farmers, ranchers, and forest landowners have clear information about what is available to them, how to apply, and where to obtain assistance with their questions at each step of the way,” USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack said.
According to a press release issued on July 7, the USDA has opened the financial assistance application process for farmers, ranchers and forest landowners who experienced discrimination in USDA farm lending programs before January 2021. The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) mandates this assistance, and USDA has worked with stakeholders to design the program. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack emphasized the commitment to providing financial aid swiftly and efficiently, and the program website, 22007apply.gov, is now available for applicants.
Eligible individuals who faced discrimination by the USDA in its farm loan programs before January 1, 2021, or are current debtors with assigned or assumed USDA farm loan debt affected by prior discrimination, can apply for the program. Applications can be submitted electronically or through mail/in-person delivery to local offices. The application period is from July 7 to October 31, 2023, and the review process will take place in November and December. Payments will be distributed thereafter, and all applications received or postmarked before the deadline will be considered.
To ensure support throughout the application process, the USDA is collaborating with various organizations experienced in outreach to farm communities. These groups, including AgrAbility and Farmer Veteran Coalition, will assist potential applicants. Regional hubs operated by vendors are also providing technical assistance and conducting outreach using digital and grassroots strategies. The USDA has cautioned against misleading information and scams, emphasizing that the official application process is free, and applicants are not required to retain an attorney.
The USDA remains committed to a fair and efficient process, working diligently to address the needs of those who have suffered discrimination in USDA farm lending programs.
