Loan
Direct Operating Loans
USDA Farm Service Agency
What you can get
Up to $400,000 • FSA direct operating loans for eligible family farmers and ranchers. Repayment generally one to seven years depending on purpose; current rates are published monthly by FSA.
- Readiness
- Prep docs first
- Who can apply
- producer
- Coverage
- Available nationwide
- Deadline & timing
- Rolling applications year-round.
- Eligibility
- Eligible family farmers and ranchers must meet citizenship/residency requirements, satisfactory credit history, ability to repay and inability to obtain credit elsewhere at reasonable rates and terms. Apply through the local FSA office with financial/production information and a farm business plan.
soil healthbeginning farmer
Optional expert service · $249
Turn program research into an application package.
An eligibility screen for one farm, a shortlist of up to three relevant programs, and draft practice justifications and a document checklist for one selected application. Delivered within 7 business days after intake.
Last verified Oct 3, 2026. Always confirm current terms and deadlines on the official site before applying.
Plan your next step
Run a quick soil assessment or ask an agronomist how this program fits your fields.