The USDA has offered two additional programs that cover losses in 2020 and 2021 as part of an effort to address issues that were not covered in previous programs. Applications for these programs close June 2, 2023.
The Emergency Relief Program (ERP) offsets losses due to natural disasters and disaster-related conditions from 2020 and 2021. This current round (Phase Two) covers revenue losses for crops, trees, bushes, and vines due to a qualifying natural disaster from the 2020 or 2021 calendar years. Crops for which federal crop insurance or NAP is offered are eligible to participate in the program. Crops for grazing are not eligible. Underserved producers (i.e., beginning, limited resource, socially disadvantaged, and veteran farmers) may be eligible for a higher payment.
The Pandemic Assistance Revenue Program (PARP) addresses pandemic losses based on revenue declines in the 2020 calendar year. Unlike previous programs, payments are made based on total revenue losses on a whole farm basis, not determined for specific commodities or limited to specific types of losses. A wide variety of commodities are eligible for inclusion in the program. Like ERP, underserved producers may be eligible for a higher payment.
Eligibility for both programs is based on gross revenues from a benchmark year (2018 or 2019) compared to gross revenues the disaster year (2020, and/or 2021 for ERP). Calculations of allowable gross revenue are determined by calendar year from the farm’s tax returns. Previous disaster payments may not influence the payment amount or program eligibility.
Farmers that suffered losses that reduced their 2020 or 2021 revenues can check with their local FSA office for further information about their eligibility and to complete their application. The PARP application can also be completed through the PARP Application Portal.
Source: msu.edu
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Categories: Michigan, Business