USDA Releases More Details on Bridge Assistance Program Payments
Additional details are emerging about the new Bridge Assistance Program funded through the U.S. Department of Agriculture, providing farmers with clearer guidance on eligibility, payment limits, and reporting requirements. The program is designed to strengthen the farm safety net by offering targeted financial support based on 2025 planted acres, with payments expected to be delivered soon.
According to USDA and the Economic Research Service (ERS), bridge payments will be calculated using 2025 planted acreage data, which should already be reported to local Farm Service Agency (FSA) offices. Producers who have not yet verified their acreage are encouraged to do so promptly to avoid delays. Accurate acreage reporting will be critical to ensure timely payment processing.
The program includes double-crop acres, meaning both initial and subsequent planted acres are eligible for assistance. However, prevent plant acres are not eligible under this bridge program. USDA officials have emphasized that only acres that were actually planted in 2025 will qualify for payment consideration.
Eligibility also depends on the type of crops grown. All intended row crops are eligible, with several important exceptions. Acres used for grazing, volunteer stands, experimental crops, green manure, standing or abandoned crops, and cover crops do not qualify. These exclusions are intended to ensure payments are directed to actively produced commercial row crops.
USDA has also confirmed key financial limitations associated with the program. A $155,000 payment limit applies to bridge assistance funds received by an individual farmer or legal entity. In addition, participants must meet a $900,000 adjusted gross income (AGI) test to qualify. These requirements mirror other federal farm assistance programs and are intended to target support to eligible production operations.
Specific guidance has been highlighted for the peanut industry. Under the program, peanut producers will receive $55.65 per acre based on eligible planted acreage from the 2025 crop year. This payment is intended to help offset economic pressures and provide short-term relief as producers plan for upcoming seasons.
USDA says the program is structured to move quickly. As long as acreage has been properly reported and eligibility requirements are met, payments are expected to be deposited no later than February 28. Producers are encouraged to work closely with their local FSA offices to confirm acreage data and compliance with payment and income limitations.
Overall, the Bridge Assistance Program is positioned as a one-time support measure aimed at reinforcing farm income, maintaining stability in row crop production, and helping producers continue to supply food, feed, and fiber across the country.
Audio Reporting by Tyron Spearman for Southeast AgNet.