Understanding the Federal Farm Loan Act and Its Impact on Agriculture

Definition & Meaning

The Federal Farm Loan Act, enacted in 1916, is a significant U.S. federal law designed to support farmers by providing them access to loans. The primary aim of this act is to enable small farmers to compete more effectively with larger agricultural businesses. To achieve this, the act established a system of farm loan banks that serve farmers who are members of local Farm Loan Associations. These associations facilitate borrowing by allowing members to secure loans based on the value of their land and improvements.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: A small farmer in Iowa joins a local Farm Loan Association and applies for a loan to purchase additional land. They are eligible to borrow up to 50 percent of the land's appraised value.

Example 2: A farmer in Texas seeks funding to improve their irrigation system. They can borrow up to 20 percent of the value of the improvements through their Farm Loan Association membership. (hypothetical example)

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition Key Differences
Farm Credit System A network of banks and associations providing credit to farmers. Farm Credit System encompasses a broader range of financial services beyond loans.
USDA Loans Loans backed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture for rural development. USDA loans are specifically for rural housing and development, while the Federal Farm Loan Act focuses on agricultural operations.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you are a farmer interested in obtaining a loan through the Federal Farm Loan Act, consider the following steps:

  • Join a local Farm Loan Association to become eligible for loans.
  • Assess the value of your land and improvements to understand your borrowing limits.
  • Explore US Legal Forms for templates related to loan applications and agreements.
  • If your situation is complex or you have specific questions, consider consulting a legal professional for tailored advice.

Quick facts

Attribute Details
Year Enacted 1916
Loan Limits Up to 50 percent of land value, up to 20 percent of improvements
Target Audience Small farmers

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

Its purpose is to provide financial support to small farmers, enabling them to compete with larger agricultural businesses.