USDA Farmer Bridge Assistance Program
USDA recently announced $12 billion in farmer aid through the new Farmer Bridge Assistance (FBA) Program, with $11 billion allocated for direct, one-time payments to producers of eligible commodities, including rice, soybeans, corn, cotton, and others.
“USDA Offers Farmer Bridge Assistance Program as Relief to Farmers”
USDA recently announced $12 billion in farmer aid through the new Farmer Bridge Assistance (FBA) Program, with $11 billion allocated for direct, one-time payments to producers of eligible commodities, including rice, soybeans, corn, cotton, and others. Payments will be calculated using 2025 planted acreage reports, which are due nationwide by December 19, 2025. Given the prevalence of prevent plant acres in rice production, it is important to note that prevent plant (“PP”) acres from 2025 will not be eligible for payment under this program. While estimated payment ranges by commodity have circulated, USDA has indicated that official payment rates will be announced the week of Christmas, with all payments expected to be processed and distributed by the end of February 2026.
The FBA Program is intended to serve as a “temporary bridge” to help farmers manage cash flow challenges through the Fall of 2026, when enhanced farm safety net programs (improved under the One Big Beautiful Bill passed in July) are expected to take effect. While this assistance is welcomed and will provide some near-term relief, it is widely acknowledged across the industry that losses incurred in 2025, especially when compounded by ongoing losses from recent years, far exceed the relief provided under this program. For many rice operations, the funding will help, but will not fully address the financial strain that farmers continue to face.
On a more positive note, many members of Congress have been made aware of the magnitude of these losses and are actively evaluating the possibility of a second tranche of economic assistance. They’re currently waiting to review finalized acreage data to gain more detailed insight into commodity-specific losses, which will help inform decisions on any additional aid. While broader recovery will likely require stronger markets and expanded trade access, continued engagement at the congressional level offers hope that further support may be forthcoming.
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