How Do I Apply?

This page provides instructions and options for you to file your application.

Application Instructions

The application includes step-by-step directions and a list of documents that are either required or recommended at each step. There are multiple ways that you can submit an application:

• Online, via the e-Filing system
• Mail a paper copy to your regional office
• In-person, dropped off at a regional office

Please select one of the following methods to apply and submit any supporting documentation. Please do not submit the same application via multiple methods.

Please do not email your application or supporting documentation for this program. We are not able to consider applications and/or supporting documents sent via email.

Apply Online via the e-Filing System

You are strongly encouraged to submit your application online via the e-Filing System. Applications may be submitted online through the e-filing application form available at forms.22007apply.gov. Please do not email your application or supporting documentation for this program. We are not able to consider applications and/or supporting documents sent via email.

Benefits of submitting your application via the e-Filing form include:

• Instant access to your application status. Login to your account to see the status of your application as it progresses through the review phase.
• Instant access to correspondence sent by the program staff. This includes information on the completeness of your application and requests for additional information to avoid any processing delays.
• Upload your supporting documents directly to the program website. This will allow you to upload relevant documents directly to the program website.
• Get instant information on the completeness of your application. This will identify and whether you have skipped any part of it—so you will be more likely to avoid an incomplete application.
• Only answer the questions relevant to you. You may not be required to fill in all sections of the application. The application will only present the questions relevant to you, based on how you answer qualifying questions.

Mail a Paper Copy

There are two methods to obtain a paper copy of the application:

1. Download a copy of the application.

   If you need the application in a language other than English or Spanish, please contact the DFAP Call Center at [email protected] or phone at 1-800-721-0970.

2. Email the National Administrator at [email protected] or call the DFAP Call Center at 1-800-721-0970 and request that an application be mailed to you.

Please do not email your application or supporting documentation for this program. We are not able to consider applications and/or supporting documents sent via email.

Submission Instructions:

1. Type or print your answers using black or blue ink. Your application must be readable by our representatives. If we are unable to read your application, this may result in its denial or a request to provide an updated application.
2. Use either of the following to make your selection when answering a question that has a box or a circle: ✔ - or - X
3. A signature is required; include a signed Signature Page (Step {10} of the application) with your completed application form.
4. Be sure all documents you submit, including your application and all the supporting documents, have your Social Security Number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number printed at the top of the first page of each document.
5. If you submit a Statement Under Penalty of Perjury Template by another person, in support of your application, you should use the form available at Resources & Documents or a document substantially like it.
6. Please make and keep your own copies of all supporting documents that accompany your application. Do not include original supporting documents with your submission. They will not be returned to you and may be destroyed after the program concludes, in accordance with records management requirements.
7. To submit your paper application, you can send the form itself, appendices, and copies of your supporting documents in one of the following ways:
   • Mail (first class or overnight) to the appropriate Regional Hub; choose based on the location of the farm that is the subject of this application. (See list of states, commonwealths, and territories below)
   • Drop off at the appropriate Regional Hub; walk-in locations are available below.
8. Applications and/or supporting documentation, will not be accepted via email, thumb drive or facsimile.
9. Your application will be processed by the Main Regional Office nearest the farm or ranch listed in the application. This page provides the regional assignments by state/territory. Each region has at least one physical location. You may call or visit these locations to get help completing the application.

Submit your Application In-Person at a Local Office

You may drop off a completed application and supporting documentation at any of the program’s dedicated Local Offices. (Note: This program is being administered by nongovernmental entities, therefore these offices are not FSA county or state offices.)

Alternatively, if you need additional assistance in preparing your application, and feel more comfortable talking to someone in person, you may visit any of the program’s dedicated Local Offices.

• You can fill out the online application on a computer in the office; or
• Have an agent provide assistance inputting the application online by answering questions to the application, in-person.

In-Person Regional Office Locations

Visit the In-Person Local Office list to find your nearest office.

Timeline and Program Deadlines

Application Submission Deadline:

• You can submit an application through January 17, 2024. If your application is late, it will not be reviewed, and you will not receive financial assistance. There will be no extensions. If your application is incomplete, it will be evaluated on the basis of the information that is included.
• Applications submitted after the following deadlines will NOT receive consideration:
  • Applications submitted by mail (including overnight mail) must be postmarked no later than January 17, 2024.
  • Applications submitted in person at a local office must be received by 8 p.m. local time on January 17, 2024.
  • Applications submitted online must be submitted (not merely started) by 11:59 p.m. PST on January 17, 2024.
• The information submitted through the application form is the only application requirement for this program. There will not be any hearings, appeals, or other processes to apply to this program.
• You are encouraged to apply in advance of the deadline to allow time to resolve any questions on the application.

Application Processing:

• Your application will be processed in the Region that covers the farm or ranch listed in the application.
• The review process will begin after receiving applications and will continue for several months.
• You will be notified of the status of your applications once determinations are made.
• You may also check the status of your application at forms.22007apply.gov. NOTE: You will need your confirmation ID to retrieve your application status.

Payment Disbursements:

• Payments for approved applications will be delivered by check through the U.S. mail shortly after decisions are made, targeted for summer 2024.