USDA Opens Signup for New Coronavirus Assistance Program

WASHINGTON, DC – Farmers and ranchers can begin signing up for the new Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (CFAP), which provides direct payments to offset impacts from the coronavirus pandemic. The application and a payment calculator are now available online, and USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) staff members are available to help producers complete applications. USDA will provide $16 billion to producers who have suffered a price decline of more than 5 percent, and are facing significant marketing costs as a result of lower demand, surplus production, and disruptions to supply chains. Eligible producers will receive 80 percent of their maximum total payment upon approval of the application, with the remainder to be paid at a later date, as funds allow. An application, eligibility forms, and a payment calculator are available at www.Farmers.gov/cfap. Applications will be accepted through August 28th.