EZ Guarantee Loans

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What is this program?

The Farm Service Agency (FSA) offers loans to help farmers and ranchers get the financing they need to start, expand, or maintain a family farm, but a guaranteed loan allows a USDA-approved commercial lender to issue and service a loan. These loans use a simplified application process to help beginning, small, underserved family farmers and ranchers who often face limited financing options.

Managing USDA Agency

Type of Assistance

Who Should Apply

How can I use this program?

These loans can be used to:

• Pay for the purchase of a farm;
• Enlarge an existing farm;
• Construct new farm buildings and/or improve structures;
• Pay closing costs;
• Promote soil and water conservation and protection;
• Refinance debt from another creditor;
• Purchase equipment;
• Purchase livestock;
• Pay for other operating needs.

Who or what is eligible and what are the eligibility requirements?

To qualify for assistance, the applicant must:

• Not be larger than a family-sized farmer;
• Have a satisfactory history of meeting credit obligations;
• Be unable to obtain credit without the guarantee at reasonable rates and terms;
• Meet all other loan eligibility requirements.

Are there any deadlines?

No. You should begin the application process a few months in advance of needing the funds to allow time for the request to be processed.

Is there anything else I should know?

• Repayment terms: EZ loans can go up to seven years for operating loans and 40 years for farm ownership loans.
• Loan interest rates are determined by the lender but must be below maximum levels established by FSA. See current FSA Loan Interest Rates here.
• Collateral required: Lenders will determine collateral based on loan purpose. Possible collateral could include, but is not limited to, crops, livestock, equipment, other chattels, and/or real estate.

How do I apply?

• Use the Loan Assistance Tool to check your eligibility for FSA Loans, discover FSA loan types, learn about FSA Loan requirements, and walk through the easy-to-understand instructions when completing the forms.
• Apply at your local USDA Service Center.