Loan Deficiency Payments Now Available for Cotton Producers in Florida

Mar 18, 2025

Cotton producers in Florida may be eligible for Loan Deficiency Payments (LDP) from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA). LDPs are payments made to producers who, although eligible to obtain a Marketing Assistance Loan, agree to forgo the loan in return for a payment on the eligible commodity. The deadline to apply for an LDP on 2024 crop-year cotton is May 31, 2025.

“Under current market conditions, Loan Deficiency Payments can provide cash flow and help cotton producers stabilize farm income and manage risk,” said Christy Marshall, Deputy State Executive Director in Florida.

An LDP triggers when the adjusted world price (AWP) for cotton falls below the loan rate. The loan rate for 2024-crop base quality upland cotton is $0.52 per pound. Extra-long staple cotton is not eligible for LDPs.

For a commodity, in this case upland cotton, to be eligible for an LDP, the producer must have beneficial interest in the commodity, defined as having title, possession and control of the commodity, and is responsible for loss of or damage to the commodity. Producers must have a LDP Agreement and Request, form CCC-633EZ, Page 1 on file with the local FSA office on or before the date of losing beneficial interest in the crop. Page 3 of the CCC-633EZ form must be submitted when payment is requested, but no later than May 31 of the year following the normal harvest.

LDPs are not subject to payment limitations, actively engaged in farming and cash-rent tenant rules; however, adjusted gross income provisions are applicable.

Source : usda.gov

Video: Why Port Infrastructure is Key to Growing Canada's Farms and Economy

Grain Farmers of Ontario (GFO) knows that strong, modern port infrastructure is vital to the success of Canada’s agriculture. When our ports grow, Ontario grain farmers and Canadian farms grow too—and when we grow, Canada grows.

In this video, we highlight the importance of investing in port infrastructure and how these investments are key to growing Ontario agriculture and supporting global trade. The footage showcases the strength of both Ontario’s farming landscapes and vital port operations, including some key visuals from HOPA Ports, which we are grateful to use in this project.

Ontario’s grain farmers rely on efficient, sustainable ports and seaway systems to move grain to markets around the world. Port investments are crucial to increasing market access, driving economic growth, and ensuring food security for all Canadians.

Why Port Infrastructure Matters:

Investing in Ports = Investing in Farms: Modernized ports support the export of Canadian grain, driving growth in agriculture.

Sustainable Growth: Learn how stronger ports reduce environmental impact while boosting economic stability.

Global Trade Opportunities: Improved port and seaway systems help farmers access new global markets for their grain.

Stronger Communities: Investment in ports means more stable jobs and economic growth for rural communities across Ontario and Canada.

We are proud to support the ongoing investment in port infrastructure and to shine a light on its vital role in feeding the world and securing a prosperous future for Canadian agriculture.

Special thanks to HOPA Ports for providing some of the stunning port footage featured in this video.