USDA Tinkers With Farm Loan Paperwork
Published Date: 7/6/2026
Notice
Summary
The Farm Service Agency is updating how it collects info to make sure loan applicants qualify and use funds properly. This affects farmers and organizations applying for loans, with a chance to comment by September 4, 2026. The update aims to keep things clear and secure without adding extra costs or delays.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 4 costs, 0 mixed.
Financial Statements Required for Loans
If you apply for an FSA direct farm loan, you must provide financial information such as a balance sheet and a cash flow projection that FSA will use in loan making and servicing decisions. The agency estimates an average reporting time of 1.06 hours per response across an estimated 153,976 total annual responses.
Bank Account and Collateral Documentation
Applicants must provide information to establish joint bank accounts for loan funds and provide collateral pledges from financial institutions when a supervised account balance will exceed the maximum amount insurable by the Federal Government. These requirements apply to handling loan proceeds and insurance proceeds.
More Applicants and Higher Admin Burden
FSA reports an increase in program participation over the last three years and estimates 66,041 respondents, 153,976 total annual responses, and 163,108 total annual burden hours (1.06 hours per response). The rise in customers increases routine loan servicing and potential distressed loan servicing activities.
Construction Documents Must Show Code Compliance
If you are borrowing for construction, you must provide documents showing that construction plans and specifications comply with state and local building standards. These compliance documents are part of the information collection used in making and servicing direct loans.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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