On the final day of 2025, the USDA released the highly anticipated per-acre rates for the Farmer Bridge Assistance (FBA) program. This $11 billion initiative is designed to support row crop and oil seed farmers who faced significant market disruptions throughout the past year.
At AgQuest Financial, we know that timing is everything when it comes to your cash flow. These payments are intended to serve as a financial bridge until the expanded support programs of the newly established "One Big Beautiful Bill Act" take effect in October 2026.
Key Payment Details and Deadlines
Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins confirmed that eligible producers can expect to see these payments in their accounts by February 28, 2026. The program is funded through the Commodity Credit Corporation and will be administered by the Farm Service Agency (FSA) based on your 2025 acreage reports.
The established per-acre rates for crops include:
• Rice: $132.89
• Cotton: $117.35
• Oats: $81.75
• Peanuts: $55.65
• Sorghum: $48.11
• Corn: $44.36
• Wheat: $39.35
• Soybeans: $30.88
• Barley: $20.51
• Canola: $23.57
• Sunflowers: $17.32
Other specialty commodities such as lentils ($23.98), chickpeas ($26.46 to $33.36), and flax ($8.05) also have specific rates assigned. It is important to note that while rapeseed and crambe were in the initial discussions, they were not included in this most recent rate list.
Specialty Crops and Sugar
For our producers of specialty crops and sugar, the USDA has set aside an additional $1 billion. While the specific rates for these crops are still under development, the USDA is working to finalize those timelines quickly. We will continue to monitor these updates and share them with you as they become available.
How This Impacts Your 2026 Planning
Knowing that these funds will be available by late February is a significant "Difference Maker" as you finalize your operating plans for the 2026 season. These payments can help offset input costs and provide a more stable foundation as you head into spring planting.
Next steps for your operation:
• Verify Your Reports: Ensure your 2025 acreage reports with the FSA are accurate, as these form the basis for your payment.
• Update Your Cash Flow: Work with your AgQuest Relationship Manager to factor these anticipated February payments into your 2026 budget.
• Monitor the Portal: Keep an eye on the AgQuest Customer Portal for any updates on how these payments might affect your existing loan structures or upcoming applications.
Your Partner in Navigating Change
Policy shifts and trade disruptions are part of the reality of modern agriculture. Our goal at AgQuest is to help you navigate these changes with confidence. We are committed to keeping you informed and providing the financial tools necessary to protect your legacy through every market cycle.
Have questions about the FBA program?
Reach out to your AgQuest representative today. We are here to help you understand how this news affects your specific operation and ensure you are positioned for a successful year ahead.