Summary:
The Farm Service Agency (FSA) is announcing the extension of the Application Fast Track (AFT) pilot program that was launched August 7, 2023, which continues the expedited processing of qualified direct Operating Loans (OL) and Farm Ownership Loans (FO) to family farmers and ranchers. AFT has been available to all customers nationwide since January 1, 2024. AFT is being extended through December 31, 2025, to allow time for FSA to continue to evaluate the administrative effectiveness of AFT. The initial results of AFT reflect a significant improvement in processing times for all customers, and FSA is continuing to monitor loan performance, and overall satisfaction with the AFT pilot program from both customers and staff.