Reimbursable Transportation Cost Program (RTCP) for Geographically Disadvantaged Farmers and Ranchers

The Reimbursement Transportation Cost Payment (RTCP) for Geographically Disadvantaged Farmers and Ranchers, administered by the Farm Service Agency (FSA), provides payments to producers in areas with high transportation costs. These areas include Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, Guam, American Samoa, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and other insular areas. The program reimburses eligible producers for a portion of the transportation costs incurred when moving agricultural commodities and inputs, helping to level the playing field and support the economic viability of farming and ranching operations in these remote regions.

Program Features:

• Payment Rates: Payments are based on the documented costs of transporting agricultural commodities or inputs over long distances. The reimbursement rate and payment amount depend on the total eligible transportation costs submitted by the producer.
• Application Process: Producers must submit an RTCP application to their local FSA office. Applications must include detailed documentation of transportation costs, such as receipts and shipping invoices, to qualify for reimbursement.
• Benefits: RTCP helps offset the high costs of transportation for geographically disadvantaged producers, enabling them to compete more effectively and maintain profitable operations despite the challenges of remote locations.

How to Enroll: To apply for the Reimbursement Transportation Cost Payment program, producers must complete and submit an RTCP application to their local FSA office. The application process includes providing detailed documentation of transportation costs, such as receipts and shipping invoices. Detailed enrollment instructions and deadlines are available through the local FSA office or the official USDA website.

Eligibility: Eligible applicants include farmers and ranchers located in geographically disadvantaged areas such as Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, Guam, American Samoa, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Applicants must provide sufficient documentation of transportation costs incurred for transporting agricultural commodities or inputs.

Official Program Page