A frequently asked question by potential applicants is, “If I prevailed in a prior discrimination case against USDA, am I still eligible for the Discrimination Financial Assistance Program?”
The answer is yes. Any individuals who experienced discrimination in USDA’s farm lending programs prior to January 1, 2021 or are currently debtors with assigned or assumed USDA farm lending debt that was the subject of USDA discrimination that occurred prior to January 1, 2021 may apply.
There have been several prior cases and matters addressing discrimination in USDA farm loan programs. These include the cases commonly known as Pigford 1; In Re Black Farmers Discrimination Litigation (BFDL or Pigford 2); Keepseagle; and Hispanic and Women Farmers and Ranchers Claim Resolution Process (HWFRCP) / Love / Garcia. People who prevailed and obtained money or loan forgiveness in these cases or claims processes are eligible for this program.
An extensive Q&A is available on the program website here.
The program call center (1-800-721-0970) is also available from 8 a.m. ET to 8 p.m. PT, every day except federal holidays to answer questions.
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