USDA Launches $2 Billion Specialty Crop Support Program

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As 2025 approaches, the USDA has unveiled a significant opportunity for specialty crop producers. The $2 billion Marketing Assistance for Specialty Crops (MASC) program aims to provide financial relief and market expansion support to help producers address the challenges in this area of agriculture. At MBE CPAs, we want to make certain our clients know this new program and are well-prepared to benefit.

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Understanding the Challenges Facing Specialty Crops

Specialty crops, including fruits, vegetables, and nuts, are important to both the agricultural economy and the diets of millions. However, producers face unique challenges:

  • High perishability: These crops require careful handling and rapid distribution to prevent losses.
  • Labor-intensive processes: Harvesting and maintenance often demand significant labor resources.
  • High input costs: Fertilizers, water, and other inputs result in production expenses that surpass those of other agricultural commodities.

The MASC program is designed to address these burdens, helping farmers maintain viability while meeting market demands.

Eligibility and Payment Details

To qualify for the MASC program, producers must meet the following criteria:
  1. Active farming of specialty crops: Eligible producers must be actively farming specialty crops for sale in 2025.
  2. Sales certification: Applicants must certify their sales for 2023 or 2024. New producers can submit projected sales for 2025 with supporting documentation.

Payment Cap and Tiered Structure

  • Payments are capped at $125,000 per producer.
  • A tiered payment system ensures smaller farms receive higher payment percentages to offset their higher variable costs.
  • If program demand exceeds the $2 billion allocation, payments may be prorated.

Application Process: Key Steps to Apply

The application deadline is January 8, 2025, so acting promptly is crucial. Here’s what eligible producers need to do:

  1. Submit Form FSA-1140: Complete the Marketing Assistance for Specialty Crops Application.
  2. Certify Sales: Provide documentation of 2023 or 2024 sales, or for new producers, projected 2025 sales with supporting evidence.
  3. Complete Required Forms: Ensure that other forms, such as AD-2047 and CCC-902, are on file with the Farm Service Agency (FSA).

Producers can contact their local FSA office for assistance or visit the USDA’s MASC webpage for additional information.

Special Considerations for Applicants

  • New Farmers: New producers must provide evidence of planting and expected sales for the 2025 growing season.
  • Resale Crops: Specialty crops intended for resale are only eligible if they undergo a significant change during the holding period.

Take Action with MBE CPAs

Understanding and working through government programs can be complex and oftentimes confusing, but you don’t have to do it alone. MBE CPAs is here to help our clients:

  • Understand the eligibility requirements.
  • Organize and certify sales records.
  • Help to make sure all necessary forms are submitted accurately and on time.

This program represents an excellent opportunity for specialty crop producers to secure financial assistance and strengthen their market position. Contact your MBE CPAs advisor today to learn how we can assist you with your application or other financial planning needs.

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