What’s a Farm Number—And Why Even Your Windowsill Might Qualify
Whether you're growing tomatoes in clay soil or flipping philodendrons on Etsy—getting a USDA farm number makes it real in the government's eyes.
A farm number (officially called a "farm tract number") is a unique identifier assigned by the USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) to any piece of land used for agricultural purposes. It's not just for sprawling corn fields—if you're growing plants commercially, even on a small scale, you might qualify.
Why get one?
- Access to USDA programs, grants, and disaster relief
- Legitimacy for your farm business
- Required for certain certifications and insurance
How to apply:
- Visit your local FSA office or go to farmers.gov
- Fill out form AD-2047
- Provide proof of land ownership or lease
- Wait for your farm number assignment
Even if you're just starting out with a backyard operation, having a farm number can open doors to resources and credibility you didn't know existed.
Can you send me more info on what this is about?
I’m trying to grow food for myself . We are seniors with a few health ailments. We live down in the Delta in California. I’m interested in herbs and healing teas . Green veggies and sour sop seeds . Thanks
I’ve been growing and selling plants for years unlicensed and unaccounted for. What a great wealth of knowledge and insight!
What if you trade or give food products away? Would I still qualify?