Get Started at Your USDA Service Center

USDA Service Center Agencies

Prepare for Your Visit 

• Make an appointment. Please call or email your Service Center to set up an appointment to ensure quick service. Our offices can get busy, especially at times around program sign-up and reporting deadlines.
• Prepare. Ask what documents you will need to help to make the most of your appointment. Examples could include: 
  • Proof of identity: driver’s license or social security card;
  • Copy of the property deed, survey plat, rental or lease agreement of the land;
  • Official tax identification (Social Security number or employer ID) and business documents
• Think about what questions you have and make a list. Do you have specific areas of your operation you would like guidance on? Do you need help with certain resources? Are you facing any challenges?

During Your Visit

• Register for a farm number to participate in USDA programs. With a farm number you can apply for FSA farm loans, disaster assistance, and crop insurance as well as for conservation programs through NRCS. You will also be able to elect FSA officials to help prioritize programs in your county. If you purchased land, it might already be established with FSA and have a farm number. You do not have to own property to participate in FSA programs. If your operation is incorporated or an entity, we may need proof of your signature authority and legal ability to sign contracts with USDA.

• Discuss your business and conservation goals. Your local team members want and need to understand your vision to recommend programs for your operation. For example, are you looking for access to capital, to rebuild after a natural disaster, or to implement conservation efforts?
• Make a plan to meet conservation compliance provisions and do an environmental review. You'll need to file form AD-1026 to ensure wetland areas and highly erodible lands are not farmed, unless following an NRCS conservation plan. This, and the environmental compliance review, are required for all USDA program eligibility, including disaster assistance.
• Verify eligibility. For most USDA programs, producers must file a CCC-941 form to verify they do not exceed an adjusted gross income of $900,000.
• File your program application. We can help you complete the forms.
• Sign up for email or text updates. This will help you stay informed about program signups or deadlines.

After Your Visit

1. File your crop acreage reports throughout the year.
2. Keep in touch with your local office. Let us know if your business changes or you experience a disaster or hardship.
3. Learn about self-service options. Create a farmers.gov account to manage some of your USDA business independently.

Additional USDA Agencies & Extension