R&R Livestock Equipment
USDA Farm Loans
FSA farm operating loans may be used to buy farm equipment. These are loans to repay, not grants.
Direct and Guaranteed Farm Operating Loans
Direct Operating Loans: FSA lends up to $400,000.
Guaranteed Operating Loans: A commercial lender makes the loan and FSA guarantees it, up to $2,558,000. USDA says this limit is adjusted each year for inflation.
Both may be used to buy farm equipment. FSA says repayment terms are generally one to seven years, depending on how the money is used. FSA sets direct-loan rates. The lender and borrower negotiate guaranteed-loan rates. Eligibility and other terms apply.
Operating Microloans
FSA offers Operating Microloans of up to $50,000. They can pay for livestock, equipment, feed, seed, supplies, and other farm needs. FSA says repayment terms range from one to seven years, depending on the loan purpose and the applicant’s finances.
FSA describes these loans as a fit for beginning farmers, small family farms, and niche or non-traditional farms. Applicants must meet FSA eligibility, credit, repayment, and farm-management requirements.
How to apply
Submit an application to your local FSA office. FSA says to include financial and production information and a farm business plan. Your local office can explain the forms and current requirements.
For conservation programs such as EQIP, check with NRCS. This page does not claim EQIP covers cattle chutes.
R&R does not make lending decisions. USDA, FSA, or the participating lender decides eligibility, loan amounts, rates, and terms.
Official sources checked November 5, 2026: Farm Operating Loans, Operating Microloans, and the USDA Service Center locator.