FSA Opens Sign-Up for Emergency Commodity Assistance Program (ECAP) Payments

Producers can now apply for ECAP payments ahead of the congressional deadline. The Farm Service Agency (FSA) has opened the sign-up period, allowing applications online or through local FSA offices starting March 19, 2025.
Pre-filled applications will be sent to producers who submitted 2024 acreage reports, but you don’t have to wait—apply now.

Application deadline: August 15, 2025

Since December, RaFF has worked with FAPRI and multiple land-grant universities to provide policy briefs and decision tools to help producers estimate ECAP payments.

Our projections were highly accurate, with minimal differences from USDA’s final payment rates:
– Virtually no difference for barley, oats, sorghum, and wheat
– 1% difference for corn, peanuts, and soybeans
– 3% difference for cotton
– 10% difference for rice

The first payment will cover 85% of the total, with the remainder issued as budget allows.

To apply, access ECAP Calculator, Fact Sheets, and FAQS, visit: Emergency Commodity Assistance Program (ECAP) | Farm Service Agency