WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. Department of Agriculture is accepting applications for a $1.625 billion assistance program designed to offset rising production costs and export-related market disruptions affecting specialty crop producers.
The Assistance for Specialty Crops Farmers program targets producers affected by higher input expenses and trade-related challenges that USDA attributes to foreign competitors and reduced export opportunities during the 2025 growing season.
Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins announced payment rates and enrollment details for the program, which is being administered through the Farm Service Agency using Commodity Credit Corporation funding.
“The Trump administration continues to put Farmers First and is committed to ensuring the economic strength of our specialty crop operations as we continue opening new markets abroad and strengthening demand domestically for American produce,” Rollins said.
Producers with Login.gov accounts and timely filed 2025 acreage reports began accessing and submitting pre-filled applications online June 1 through fsa.usda.gov/ascf. Farmers seeking in-person assistance through local Farm Service Agency offices may request pre-filled applications beginning June 8.
The enrollment period closes August 7, and USDA indicated approved payments could begin being issued as early as the first week of signup.
The agency established four payment categories based on average crop revenue per acre.
Tier 1 crops, defined as specialty crops generating more than $10,000 per acre in annual revenue, will receive $650 per acre. Tier 2 crops, with revenue between $2,300 and $10,000 per acre, will receive $225 per acre. Tier 3 crops, generating up to $2,300 per acre, will receive $65 per acre.
Beans and peas not previously covered under the Farmer Bridge Assistance program will receive $25 per acre.
Payment calculations will be based on eligible specialty crop acreage reported to USDA by April 24, 2026. Controlled-environment specialty crops generally are not eligible, with the exception of mushrooms.
The program includes a payment cap of $250,000 per producer.
USDA noted that crop insurance participation is not required for eligibility but encouraged producers to consider new risk management options authorized through the Working Families Tax Cuts Act.
Producers who need assistance creating a Login.gov account can visit login.gov/help.
Applications can be submitted electronically through fsa.usda.gov/ascf or through local county offices. Additional information, including eligible crop lists and payment category details, is available through USDA’s Farm Service Agency at fsa.usda.gov/ascf.
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