FLAG attorneys have written a new Guide for farmers addressing the recent USDA shutdown. The government shutdown, which began on October 1, 2025, and ended on November 12, 2025, has affected many FSA farm loan and FSA farm programs. This Guide was written to help explain those new deadlines and rules, at least as they existed as of December 3, 2025.

Some of the new deadlines are fast-approaching and farmers should act quickly to review their new obligations. If farmers are unsure about a new deadline, they should contact FSA to get clarification. As more information becomes available, FLAG plans to update this Guide.

Farmers’ Brief Guide to USDA Shutdown December 2025