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SMHPP assists hog producers who sold hogs
through a spot market sale from April 16, 2020, through
September 1, 2020, the period during which these producers faced
the greatest reduction in market prices due to the pandemic.
USDA is offering SMHPP in response to a reduction in packer
production and supply chain issues due to the COVID-19 pandemic,
which resulted in fewer negotiated hogs being procured and
subsequent lower market prices. USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA)
began accepting applications for SMHPP on December 15, 2021.
In response to stakeholder feedback and our analysis of the
program to date, USDA will be making adjustments to clarify the
definition of a spot market sale and to hog eligibility, while
including documentation requirements to prevent erroneous
payments. USDA will also be announcing those updates soon and
wants to assure hog producers that there will be ample time to
submit their applications for assistance.
Applying for Assistance
Eligible hog producers can apply for SMHPP by completing the
FSA-940, Spot Market Hog Pandemic Program application. Visit
farmers.gov/smhpp to learn more.
Applications can be submitted to the FSA office at any USDA
Service Center nationwide by mail, fax, hand delivery or via
electronic means. T o find their local FSA office, producers can
visit farmers.gov/service-locator. Hog producers can also call
877-508-8364 to speak directly with a USDA employee ready to
offer assistance. Service Center staff continue to work with
agricultural producers via phone, email, and other digital
tools. Because of the pandemic, some USDA Service Centers are
open to limited visitors. Contact your Service Center to set up
an in-person or phone appointment. Additionally, more
information related to USDA’s response and relief for producers
can be found at farmers.gov/coronavirus.
[Illinois Farm Service Agency]
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