USDA launches a $10 billion emergency aid program for farmers amid low prices

Money will soon be hitting accounts of farmers hurt by last year’s economy, as Ag Secretary Brooke Rollins has released $10 billion, with row crop farmers set to get the most relief.

“Producers are facing higher costs and market uncertainty, and the Trump Administration is ensuring they get the support they need without delay. With clear direction from Congress, USDA has prioritized streamlining the process and accelerating these payments ahead of schedule, ensuring farmers have the resources necessary to manage rising expenses and secure financing for next season,” said Secretary Rollins.

They are part of the payments authorized by Congress late last year because there was no Farm Bill. Under the plan, the Farm Service Agency will give pre-filled applications to farmers, and they will use information from 2024 acreage reports.

Top payment rates are $43.91 for corn, $29.76 for soybeans, $30.69 for wheat, and $84.74 for cotton. Off the bat, farmers will get 85 percent of the payment they are owed in order to make sure there is enough money to go around. A second payment could come later in the summer.

Farmers do not have to wait for their pre-filled application to apply. They can contact their local FSA office to request an application, or they can click here!

Related Stories
Strong corn exports support prices while soybeans lag yearly pace. However, large carryover stocks limit upside despite solid yields.
Lori Stevermer with the National Pork Producers Council reacts to the USDA’s speedline proposal, the new Farm Bill’s fix for California’s Prop-12, and other policy developments impacting the pork industry.
South Texas farmers say water shortages continue despite Mexico’s renewed payments under the 1944 Water Treaty.
Roger McEowen with the Washburn School of Law reviews key highlights from the House Agriculture Committee’s latest farm bill proposal.
The Action Aims to Lower Food Costs for Consumers and Strengthen the Supply Chain
Slightly higher sales amid shrinking acreage and inventories point to tighter supplies supporting catfish prices.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Jeramy Stephens with National Land Realty explains how the Supreme Court’s tariff ruling and ongoing ‘America First’ trade policy raise new questions about U.S. farmland values and agricultural market stability.
The San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo concluded last night, marking the end of another successful year showcasing youth exhibitors, livestock producers, and the spirit of agriculture.
Kurt Kovarik of Clean Fuels Alliance America joined us to break down the latest developments in the Renewable Fuel Standard rulemaking process and what it could mean for agriculture, energy markets, and rural economies.
Jennifer Tirey of the Illinois Pork Producers Association joined us to discuss efforts to bring pork back into Chicago Public Schools, the nutritional benefits for students, and what the decision could mean for pork producers across the state.
Farmer and retired colonial Joe Ricker joined us to highlight Ag Safety Awareness Program Week, share his work supporting veterans and farmers, and offer guidance on making safety a year-round priority on the farm.
High fertilizer costs and global risks threaten spring margins for growers.
Agriculture Shows
Special 3-part series tells the story of the Claas family’s legacy, which changed agriculture forever.
From soil to harvest. Top Crop is an all-new series about four of the best farmers in the world—Dan Luepkes, of Oregan, Illinois; Cory Atley, of Cedarville, Ohio; Shelby Fite, of Jackson Center, Ohio; Russell Hedrick, of Hickory, North Carolina—reveals what it takes for them to make a profitable crop. It all starts with good soil, patience, and a strong planter setup.
Champions of Rural America is a half-hour dive into the legislative priorities for Rural America. Join us as we interview members of the Congressional Western Caucus to learn about efforts in Washington to preserve agriculture and tackles the most important topics in the ag industry on Champions of Rural America!
Featuring members of Congress, federal and state officials, ag and food leaders, farmers, and roundtable panelists for debates and discussions.