U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue announced Jan. 8 that the USDA will extend the Jan.15 deadline for submitting applications for trade-relief payments due to the partial government shutdown.
The shutdown began on Dec. 22, but the Farm Service Agency (FSA) offices remained open, using existing funds, until Dec. 28. The extension for submitting applications will be for a period equal to the number of business days FSA offices were closed once the government shutdown ends.
Still, the Almond Board of California is continuing to encourage you to submit your application as soon as possible. Applications can be submitted online at Farmers.gov, but there will be no reviews until FSA offices reopen.
Please note that applications do not need to be final by the deadline date but must be signed and submitted by the deadline. Supporting documentation can be added to the application until May 1, 2019.
The Almond Board will share additional information as we receive it. Should you have any questions, please contact Julie Adams, vice president of Global Technical and Regulatory Affairs, at jadams@almondboard.com or 209-343-3238. For more information about the program, visit Farmers.gov/MFP.
