Apply Now for New 2023/2024 Ag Relief

Authored by: Kevin Block – Partner, CPA | Date Published: June 11, 2025

For livestock producers nationwide, a recent announcement from the United States Department of Agriculture USDA brings a much-needed farm relief program. The details for the Emergency Livestock Relief Program (ELRP) for 2023 and 2024 have been officially released, providing crucial support for drought relief and wildfire assistance.

This vital farmer disaster relief program is designed to compensate livestock producers for losses incurred during these challenging years due to drought and wildfires. The USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) is taking a streamlined approach, utilizing existing data from the Livestock Forage Disaster Program (LFP) to expedite payments. This means if you already have an approved LFP application on file for 2023 and/or 2024 due to drought or wildfire, payments will be automatically issued. There is no need to contact your local USDA office to get these disaster relief for farmers– they’re working to get these funds into your hands as quickly as possible.

Key Takeaways for Producers:

• Focus on Drought and Wildfire: This initial phase of ELRP 2023-24 is specifically for losses due to qualifying drought and wildfire events.

• Hassle-Free Payments: If you’ve already applied for LFP for 2023/2024 for these events, payments are expected to be automatic.

• Factor of 35%: Initial ELRP payments will be factored at 35% of your calculated LFP payment. The FSA anticipates strong demand for the program, and a second payment may be issued if additional funds remain.

• Future Assistance for Flooding: Additional ELRP assistance is expected to be announced later this summer for livestock producers impacted by flooding.

• Stay Informed: The USDA’s 2023/2024 Supplemental Disaster Assistance public landing page (fsa.usda.gov) is a key resource for tracking the status of various disaster relief programs for farmers, including the USDA drought relief 2024 payment schedule.

Program Relief and Resources Available

This announcement is part of the broader American Relief Act 2025, which allocated significant funds for disaster assistance for agricultural producers. The USDA is prioritizing getting these critical funds to those who need them most, recognizing the immense challenges the livestock industry faces.

If you have questions about your specific situation or haven’t applied for LFP for 2023 or 2024 but believe you qualify for ELRP due to drought or wildfire losses, it’s always best to contact your local FSA county office for guidance. They are your primary resource for navigating these programs and ensuring you receive the support you’re eligible for. Programs like ELRP are crucial in helping them recover and continue their essential work.

How MBE CPAs Can Help Your Farm Business

At MBE CPAs, we understand that farmers are dealing with a complex web of related issues – from rising input costs to unpredictable weather events – all of which can severely impact your business. Our mission is to be proactive, relaying vital information like the ELRP details so you can get the assistance you need and keep your farm business strong.

Financial challenges can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to face them on your own. We take the time to understand you and your business, because there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. What works for someone else might not work for you, and that’s why we start with listening.

Meet Kevin Block, Your Agricultural Business Advisor

We are proud to have Kevin Block, one of our partners, as a leading voice in agricultural financial advice. Kevin understands the distinct financial needs of the agriculture industry and brings that knowledge to every conversation. His advice consistently emphasizes the importance of:

Proactive Planning: Don’t wait for disaster to strike. Strong financial strategies can help reduce losses and support your eligibility for programs like ELRP.
Utilizing Available Programs: Understanding and correctly applying for government programs and subsidies can provide a critical lifeline during challenging periods.

Don't Leave Money on the Table – Contact Us!

If you have questions about your specific situation, haven’t applied for LFP for 2023 or 2024, or simply want to make sure your farm business is best positioned to handle financial challenges and take advantage of opportunities, it’s time to talk to us.

While the FSA is your primary resource for direct program guidance, MBE CPAs can provide strategic financial advice and support to navigate these programs and confirm compliance. We can help you:

Review your eligibility for ELRP and other relief programs.
Understand the financial implications of these payments for your tax situation.
Optimize your farm’s financial records to support future claims and business decisions.
Develop a proactive financial plan for long-term resilience.

The resilience of our livestock producers is vital to our nation’s agricultural success. With MBE CPAs by your side, you can recover and continue your essential work, knowing you have financial guidance every step of the way.