Farmers, ranchers, and forest landowners who experienced discrimination in USDA farm lending programs before January 2021 may be eligible for Discrimination Financial Assistance. It’s a new program and an important step in delivering on USDA’s commitment to providing financial assistance to those who have faced discrimination in USDA farm lending programs.
The deadline to apply is January 13, 2024. Borrowers can apply online or with a paper form. The application process isn’t first come, first served. All applications received or postmarked before the January 13 deadline will be considered. Filing an application is free and doesn’t require a lawyer. On the website, applicants can get information on how to obtain technical assistance in person or virtually and additional resources and details about the program.
If you have concerns about working with USDA based on past experiences, USDA partnered with community-based organizations to conduct outreach to underserved groups. For information, go to 22007apply.gov.