Jul 5, 2011

Hispanic, female farmers might be compensated

USDA has a message for Hispanic and/or women farmers and ranchers: If you believe that USDA improperly denied farm loan benefits to you between 1981 and 2000 because you are Hispanic or because you are female, you may be eligible to apply for compensation.

This means you may be eligible if 1) you sought a farm loan or farm-loan servicing during that period; and 2) the loan was denied, provided late, approved for a lesser amount than requested, or approved with restrictive conditions, or USDA failed to provide an appropriate loan service; and 3) you believe these actions were based on your being Hispanic, or your being female.

If you want to register your name to receive a claims packet, you can call the Farmer and Rancher Call Center at 888-508-4429.

In 2011, a claims administrator will begin mailing claims packages to those who have requested one through the Call Center or website. The claims package will have detailed information about the eligibility and claims process, according to USDA.

For guidance, you may contact a lawyer or other legal services provider in your community. If you are currently represented by counsel regarding allegations of discrimination or in a lawsuit claiming discrimination, you should contact your counsel regarding this claims process. USDA cannot give you legal advice.