Fsa Farm Loan Types
Understand direct, guaranteed, and youth FSA loan programs before you apply for farm financing.
FSA farm loan types overview
FSA farm loan types fall into two buckets: direct loans (USDA is the lender) and guaranteed loans (a commercial lender makes the loan with FSA loss coverage). Knowing which program fits your operation saves time at the county office.
Direct vs guaranteed FSA loans
FSA direct loans are made and serviced by USDA. Guaranteed loans are made by commercial lenders with FSA backing a portion of the loss.
Common FSA loan programs
- Operating (OL): Annual inputs, livestock purchases
- Farm ownership (FO): Land purchase, succession
- Microloans: Simplified applications for smaller operations
- Youth loans: Limited programs for young farmers in approved projects
Compare payments before you apply
Run your expected payment through our farm loan payment calculator before your lender meeting. Pair results with the cash rent calculator if you are weighing land purchase vs lease.
Related farm finance resources
- Farm loan calculator: amortization and total interest
- Cash rent calculator: lease vs buy land
- Crop breakeven calculator: margin to support debt service
FSA farm loan FAQ
Who qualifies for FSA direct loans?
Eligibility depends on farm size, prior debt, and inability to obtain credit elsewhere at reasonable rates. Your county FSA office reviews each application.
Are FSA rates fixed?
Many FSA direct programs use fixed rates set monthly. Plug the quoted rate into our calculator to see payment and total interest.