The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) will begin accepting applications starting Wednesday for a $10 billion emergency aid program designed to support farmers grappling with historically low commodity prices. The funds, approved by Congress in late 2023, aim to supplement existing subsidies as farmers face mounting financial strain, with some crops now costing more to plant than they fetch at market.
Under the Emergency Commodity Assistance Program, eligible farmers growing wheat, corn, barley, or oats will receive flat-rate payments based on acreage. Payments will be deposited directly into bank accounts within three business days of approval, according to USDA Deputy Under Secretary Brooke Appleton. The move comes as farmers pivot toward planting more corn in hopes of mitigating losses.
Additionally, Congress allocated $20 billion for 2023–2024 disaster relief, with details forthcoming. This aid will address livestock losses from droughts and floods, further cushioning an agricultural sector reeling from Trump-era USDA spending freezes and potential trade disruptions tied to tariffs.