Organic Certification Cost Share Program (OCCSP)

Organic Certification Cost Share Program (OCCSP)

This program may have additional incentives or benefits for those who are underserved. Learn more about our terminology.

 

What is this program?

Provides cost share assistance to producers and handlers of agricultural products who are obtaining or renewing their certification under the National Organic Program (NOP). Certified operations may receive up to 75 percent of their certification costs paid during the program year, not to exceed $750 per certification scope.

 

How can I use this program?

• Reimbursable costs include application fees, inspection costs, fees related to equivalency agreement/arrangement requirements, travel/per diem for inspectors, user fees, sales assessments and postage
• Non-reimbursable costs include equipment, materials, supplies, transitional certification fees, late fees and inspections necessary to address National Organic Program regulatory violations

 

Who or what is eligible and what are the eligibility requirements?

• Certified organic producers and handlers must have paid certification fees during the 2021 and subsequent program year may apply for reimbursement of the incurred costs
• Organic certification cost share funds are only available to certified organic producers and handlers. Certification must be provided by a USDA-accredited certifying agent. If your operation is not currently certified organic and you would like to learn more about the certification process, please visit www.fsa.usda.gov/organic.

 

Are there any deadlines?

October 31, 2023 (this covers expenses paid from Oct. 1, 2022 through Sept 30, 2023)

 

Is there anything else I should know?

OCCSP funds are limited, and applications are paid on a first-come, first-served basis. Applications received after all funds are obligated will not be paid.

 

How do I apply?

• You may apply to a participating state agency according to their deadlines, or you may apply directly to one of over 2,100 FSA offices.
• Applicants must typically submit a one-page application form (available at USDA’s eForms), W-9 tax form (to participating state agencies), proof of certification and an itemized invoice of certification expenses.
• To apply through State agencies, see the list here. State agencies may have a different application process than FSA; applicants should refer to their state agency's requirements and ensure they are using the correct application form.
• Applicants cannot receive duplicate benefits from both FSA and a state agency.

 

 

 

Page last updated: January 29, 2024