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Inflation Reduction Act Assistance for Producers Who Experienced Discrimination in USDA Farm Loan Programs

Section 22007 of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) provides $2.2 billion in financial assistance for farmers, ranchers, and forest landowners who experienced discrimination in USDA’s farm lending programs prior to January 1, 2021. Distribution of these funds is one step in the long march towards justice and an inclusive, equitable USDA. The program complements other assistance made possible through the IRA, including assistance for distressed borrowers.

Application Period Now Open

The application process is now open, and applications are due January 13, 2024. Applications for this program are free, and do not require a lawyer.

Visit www.22007apply.gov or download our fact sheet for detailed information about application procedures. 

On This Page

How the Process Will Work
Timeline and How to Get Assistance
Frequently Asked Questions
Additional Resources

How the Process Will Work

The IRA specifies this assistance must be delivered to impacted producers by nongovernmental program administrators. In May, USDA signed contracts with three vendors who, together, constitute a national administrator and four regional hubs. The vendors are working together to solicit applications from eligible farmers, provide technical assistance, and make decisions about each case (following rules set by USDA).  

The vendors include:

  • Midtown Group, serving as the national administrator;
  • Windsor Group, serving producers in the eastern regions of the U.S.; and
  • Analytic Acquisitions, serving the western regions.

The national administrator will manage all aspects of the application process including making determinations on applications, while the regional hubs will conduct outreach and technical assistance in addition to providing recommendations on applications.     

The vendors are opening regional locations; they and USDA are working closely with community-based organizations across the country who are known and trusted by producer communities, including:

These organizations, will conduct outreach and technical assistance, ensuring potential applicants are informed about the program and have the opportunity to apply.   

Timeline and How to Get Assistance

The application process is now open. Applications for this program are free, and do not require a lawyer.

Visit www.22007apply.gov for detailed information about application procedures.

This online resource provides information about eligibility requirements, available assistance, and application forms. Further assistance can be obtained by calling the National Call Center at 1-800-721-0970 or emailing info@22007apply.gov.

Also, regional offices have been set up around the country so that individuals can visit, get help, and apply in-person; help will also be available at mobile events. Find regional resources. 

Timeline for Applications

Applications are due January 13, 2024. To ensure timely processing, there will be no extensions to the deadline. The specifics depend on the application submission method:  

  • U.S. or overnight mail must be postmarked by January 13, 2024
  • E-Filing by 11:59 p.m. Pacific time January 13, 2024
  • In person, at a regional office by 8 p.m. on January 13, 2024

USDA is aware of some lawyers and groups spreading misleading information about the discrimination assistance process, as well as requesting private and sensitive information. Read our fact sheet about the program timeline and how to protect yourself from scams. 

More information will be posted to this webpage as it becomes available.

Frequently Asked Questions

I’m a farmer, rancher, or forest landowner. When/how can I get further details about the producer application process for this program?

Visit www.22007apply.gov for detailed information about application procedures and available assistance.

Further information and assistance can be obtained by calling the National Call Center at 1-800-721-0970 or emailing info@22007apply.gov. Also, regional offices have been set up around the country so that individuals can visit, get help, and apply in-person; help will also be available at mobile events. Find regional resources.

I’m a farmer, rancher, or forest landowner. How do I know if I am eligible for this program? 

To be eligible, you must have experienced discrimination by USDA in USDA farm lending (programs administered by FSA, the Farm Service Agency, or its predecessor the Farmers Home Administration), prior to January 1, 2021. (You may also be eligible if you currently have assigned or assumed USDA farm loan debt that was the subject of USDA discrimination that occurred prior to January 1, 2021.)

Importantly, individuals who have personally obtained money or loan forgiveness in a prior case addressing discrimination in USDA farm loan programs are still eligible to participate in this program.  

Do I need a lawyer to apply?

No lawyer is required for this program application. Technical assistance is available.

Is this where I file a discrimination complaint if I am currently experiencing discrimination in USDA programs or need to find answers about a previously filed complaint?

No. If you are currently experiencing discrimination, you may contact the Office of Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights (OASCR), Information Research Service, at (866) 632-9992 (toll free) or send an email to the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights at CR-INFO@usda.gov.

Individuals who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have speech disabilities may contact OASCR through the Federal Relay Service on 711. Those who prefer Spanish can use (800) 845-6136.

For help with additional questions, please email askusda@usda.gov.

Will the funds be distributed on a first come, first served basis? Is there advantage to applying sooner rather than later?  

No. Application is not on a first come, first served basis; all applications received by the deadline will be reviewed and considered.

Additional Resources

Find Your Local Service Center

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USDA Service Centers are locations where you can connect with Farm Service Agency, Natural Resources Conservation Service, or Rural Development employees for your business needs. Enter your state and county below to find your local service center and agency offices. If this locator does not work in your browser, please visit offices.usda.gov.

Learn more about our Urban Service Centers.

Visit the Risk Management Agency website to find a regional or compliance office or to find an insurance agent near you.