By Scout Nelson
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has opened enrollment for the Farmer Bridge Assistance (FBA) program, a new initiative designed to support row crop producers facing temporary trade disruptions and higher production costs. The program will provide about $11 billion in one-time bridge payments to eligible farmers across the United States. The enrollment period runs until April 17, 2026.
“Improving the farm economy is our top priority at USDA, and we have simplified and streamlined the application process for the bridge program to ensure producers get the financial assistance they need as quickly as possible as we’re kicking off the spring planting season,” said U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins.
“Producers who want to further expedite their payment, can apply online through the program website and could receive a payment in their bank account as early as Feb. 28, 2026,” said Rollins.
According to USDA officials, the program aims to strengthen the farm economy by delivering financial assistance quickly as producers prepare for the spring planting season. Farmers who apply online may receive payments faster, helping them manage short-term financial pressures.
The FBA program is authorized under the Commodity Credit Corporation Charter Act and is administered by the Farm Service Agency (FSA). These bridge payments are intended to help producers until additional support measures under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act become available later in 2026. That legislation is expected to increase reference prices for major commodities by 10 to 21 percent, with benefits reaching eligible producers after October 1, 2026.
Farmers can apply through pre-filled applications available online for those who filed 2025 crop acreage reports and have a Login.gov account. Producers may also request applications through their local FSA county office. Login.gov provides secure access to government services, allowing producers to submit applications, certify information, and track payment status online.
A wide range of commodities are eligible under the program, including corn, soybeans, wheat, cotton, barley, rice, sorghum, canola, sunflower, and several pulse and oilseed crops. Most planted acres qualify, including initial and double-crop acres, while preventing plant acres and certain non-harvest uses such as grazing or cover crops are excluded.
Payment rates are based on 2025 planted acres, production costs, and market data from USDA reports. While crop insurance is not required for participation, USDA encourages producers to use available risk management tools to protect against future market volatility.
In addition, USDA announced separate support through the Assistance for Specialty Crop Farmers program, offering one-time payments to specialty crop growers who must report 2025 acres by March 13, 2026.
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Categories: Nebraska, Government & Policy