WASHINGTON, DC (RFD-TV) — USDA will provide $8 billion in one-time Harvest Fuel Relief payments to farmers facing higher input costs and temporary market disruptions during the 2026 crop year.
The program will use a national formula based on Farm Service Agency planted acres, Economic Research Service production-cost estimates, and USDA yield and price forecasts. Payments will be proportional to modeled losses rather than individual farm losses.
Commodity-specific payment rates for Title I crops are expected in November. USDA says crop insurance participation will not be required to receive Harvest Fuel Relief payments, although producers are encouraged to use available risk-management tools.
Payment details for other eligible commodities will come later. Specialty crop growers, fishermen and other non-Title I producers are being asked to submit information on increased fuel costs for USDA consideration.
The Farm Service Agency will administer the program through Commodity Credit Corporation authority. Producers are encouraged to establish a Login.gov account before applications open.
