FSA Farm Operating Loan (Direct)
USDA FSA direct operating loans up to $400,000 to cover day-to-day farming costs, livestock, equipment, and family living expenses.
About this program
FSA Direct Farm Operating Loans cover essential agricultural operating costs including livestock, seed, fertilizer, equipment, utilities, land rents, and family living expenses while a farm gets established. Maximum loan: $400,000 with terms typically up to 7 years for equipment/livestock. Operating loans can also fund marketing and distribution costs (including farmers' markets and CSAs), farm reorganization for soil/water conservation, and recovery from natural disasters. Beginning farmers and socially disadvantaged farmers receive set-aside funds.
Eligibility
Family farmers and ranchers unable to obtain commercial credit; U.S. citizens or permanent residents; sufficient managerial ability (demonstrated through education, training, or experience); acceptable credit history.
Requirements
- Unable to obtain commercial credit elsewhere
- Sufficient managerial ability
- U.S. citizenship/permanent residency