With: Kim Buchheit, USDA Farm Service Agency (Chadron, Neb.) and Jessica Groskopf, Agricultural Economist, Nebraska Extension.

USDA Farm Service Agency sometimes is called the first lender of opportunity because it can often make loans that other commercial lenders cannot. This is especially important for beginning farmers and ranchers, who for FSA purposes are those who have not operated a farm or ranch for more than 10 years. While folks still need some experience and a business plan in order to get a loan, FSA may have some flexibility where others do not. USDA Farm Service Agency has a variety of loan options, from direct loans for operating expenses or ownership dreams, to guaranteed loans where FSA works with a local lending institution to guarantee up to 95% of a loan the lender makes. FSA’s Down Payment Loan, which is reserved for beginners, offers a special low interest rate. Learn about these programs and more during this one-hour webinar.