Farmers across the country will soon be able to apply for the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s bridge payments.
The Farmer Bridge Assistance (FBA) program, first announced in December, will provide $11 billion in one-time payments to row crop producers in response to temporary trade market disruptions and increased production costs.
The FBA enrollment period opens Monday, Feb. 23, and closes April 17, 2026.
In a press release, U.S. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins explained they have simplified and streamlined the application process for the program to ensure producers receive the financial assistance they need as quickly as possible, as farmers are kicking off the spring planting season.
“President Trump continues to put farmers first. If our farmers are not economically able to continue their operations, then we will not be able to feed ourselves in this country,” Rollins stated. “Producers who want to further expedite their payment can apply online through the program website and could receive a payment in their bank account as early as February 28, 2026.
“Putting Farmers First means providing economic relief now while the Trump Administration continues opening new markets and strengthening the farm safety net.”
The bridge payments are authorized under the Commodity Credit Corporation Charter Act and are administered by the Farm Service Agency (FSA). Bridge payments are intended in part to aid farmers until investments set in from the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, including reference prices which are set to increase between 10% and 21% for major covered commodities and will reach eligible farmers after Oct. 1.
How do I apply?
Farmers nationwide can apply using applications that will be available on Monday, Feb. 23. Those with a Login.gov account who timely filled their 2025 crop acreage reports for eligible commodities will have pre-filled applications. Additionally, producers can request their pre-filled FBA application from their FSA county office.
Applications can be accessed and submitted here.
How big is farming in Mississippi?
Agriculture is Mississippi’s largest industry. According to the Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce, agriculture generates $9.5 billion annually and employs 11.4% of the state’s workforce either directly or indirectly. The state has approximately 31,290 farms covering 10.3 million acres.