What is the Certified Mediation Program?
FSA's page describes the Certified Mediation Program as voluntary mediation that helps parties resolve disputes without litigation. It is administered by FSA and delivered through certified state programs.
The page says it covers farm loan disputes, adverse decisions by USDA agencies, rural housing loan issues, and conflicts involving agricultural credit, grazing on federal lands and other farm-related matters.
Because mediation is voluntary, both sides must agree to take part, though the page says it is available to any party seeking a neutral way to resolve conflicts.
Who can use mediation?
Agricultural producers, creditors and other stakeholders involved in covered disputes may take part. The FSA page says applicants should check with their local FSA office or a certified state mediation program for specific requirements.
Because programs are run by states, details such as eligibility, timing and procedures can differ. A short call to your state program is the best first step.
If your dispute is with a USDA agency over an adverse decision, ask the office about both mediation and the appeal rights that apply, since they have separate rules and deadlines.
How does a mediation session work?
You request mediation through a local FSA office or certified state program. Staff explain the process, and a neutral mediator is assigned. Both sides identify the issues, share information and talk through options with the mediator's help. Ask in advance how long the session is expected to run and where it will be held.
The mediator does not decide who is right. The goal is a written agreement both sides accept. If no agreement is reached, you keep your other legal options.
Sessions can last part of a day or longer, depending on the issues. Plan your time so you are not rushed.
- Contact your local FSA office or state mediation program
- Describe the dispute and the other party
- Meet with a neutral mediator
- Negotiate and, if you agree, sign a written settlement
What does it cost, and is it private?
The FSA page describes mediation as a more affordable alternative to litigation but does not list fees, so ask your state program what it charges, if anything. It also says discussions are confidential, which gives people space to speak openly. Some programs also offer help to farmers who cannot afford costs, so ask what support exists.
Ask about the exact confidentiality rules in your state, and whether anything you say can be used later.
Assume nothing about cost or privacy until you have asked, and get the answer from the program in writing if you can.
How should you prepare?
Collect loan documents, payment history, financial statements, correspondence and any notices you have received. Write a short summary of what happened and what outcome would work for the farm. Think about what the other side needs too. A neat folder helps you stay calm when emotions run high in the room.
Consider bringing an adviser or attorney. Rules about attorneys in mediation vary, so ask the program ahead of time.
- Loan agreements and notices
- Recent financial statements and cash flow plan
- Timeline of events and payments
- A realistic proposal and fallback positions
What are common mistakes?
Waiting until foreclosure is days away leaves little time for a solution. Going in without numbers, or with demands the farm cannot support, rarely helps. Treating the session as a fight instead of a negotiation can also close doors.
Be willing to listen, stay calm and take notes. If a proposal is offered, you can ask for time to review it with your adviser.
After an agreement, read it carefully, ask that all terms be written down, and put each due date on your calendar.
What happens after mediation ends?
If you reach an agreement, it is written down and signed by the parties, and each side follows its terms. If you do not, you keep your other options, such as continued negotiation, an appeal where one is available, or legal advice about next steps. Remember that your goal is a workable plan for the farm, and keep that in focus during the discussion.
Whatever the outcome, keep a copy of the paperwork and note any deadlines. Follow up with your lender or agency in writing to confirm what was agreed.
Key takeaways
- Mediation is voluntary, confidential and handled by a neutral person.
- FSA's page says it covers farm loan disputes, USDA adverse decisions and other agricultural credit matters.
- Programs are certified and run by states, so details vary.
- Prepare documents and a realistic proposal.
- Ask your local FSA office or state program about cost and process.
Sources and official links
Last reviewed: November 12, 2026. Written by the Farm Money & Grants Editorial Team. Educational only, not tax, legal or financial advice. See our editorial policy.