Rodney Nichols, executive director of the Jackson County office, said that each year producers must file necessary forms at the FSA office to establish eligibility and confirm their intentions to participate in the program. Participation is voluntary and producers can stay out of the program on any given year. 2007 is the last year of this Farm Bill,unless Congress decides to extend it. The sign-up will be open until June 1, 2007, after that, a late filed fee will be applied.
Advance Direct payments of only 22% of the projected rate will be offered starting in December. “We are encouraging those that want a December payment to come in now so that we can complete eligibility determination and be ready to make those payments in December,” Nichols said.
After December, producers will be able to choose which month they want the advance direct payment to be paid. Producers can opt to not receive an advance and receive the full rate next October. Those wanting a payment in January are being asked to wait until early January to sign up. This will allow the office time to perform all updates and paperwork required to make the first payments in December.
Producers are asked to call the office for appointments to sign up. This will allow the staff time to gather and prepare much of the paperwork prior to the time you arrive, which will cut down on the amount of time you will have to spend in the office. Call 482-4312 ext. 2 to make an appointment.
Post a Comment
