What do USDA civil rights rules cover?
Federal civil rights law and USDA policy prohibit discrimination in USDA programs and activities. USDA's non-discrimination statement lists protected bases, which include characteristics such as race, color, national origin, sex, religious creed, disability, age and others. The exact list appears on the USDA complaint page and can vary by program.
The rules apply to how staff treat applicants and participants and to organizations that receive USDA funds.
Contractors and partners that take USDA money must follow the same rules, so you may also raise concerns about how a local organization handled your request.
What does fair program access look like?
Everyone who is eligible should be able to apply, receive clear information and have an application considered on its merits. That includes help in a language you understand and accommodations for disabilities, such as large print, accessible meeting spaces or alternative ways to submit information.
If something stands in the way, ask for what you need. Request it politely and, if possible, in writing, and note who you spoke with.
Programs are also supposed to be advertised in ways that reach different communities, such as through local outreach, translated materials and partner organizations.
How do I ask for an accommodation or language help?
Contact your service center before your visit and describe what would help. Offices can arrange interpreters, accessible formats and other assistance. USDA materials also include information on how to request alternative formats.
If the office cannot help you at first, ask for a supervisor or for a contact in the state office.
Keep a simple log of requests for help, including the date, the person and the answer. It can matter later if a problem comes up.
How do I file a discrimination complaint?
USDA's program discrimination complaint page explains how to file. A complaint generally can be submitted in writing, online, by mail or by email, and it should include your name, contact information, a description of what happened, who was involved and the dates.
The page also gives deadlines for filing. Do not wait, because late complaints may not be accepted. Keep copies of your submission and note the date it was sent.
- Your name, address and phone number
- A description of the action you believe was discriminatory
- Dates and locations where it occurred
- Names of the people involved
- The basis you believe applies, such as race or disability
How is a complaint different from an appeal?
An appeal challenges a specific program decision, such as a denial of payment or a loan. A civil rights complaint alleges that discrimination played a part in how you were treated. The two can apply to the same situation, and each has its own deadlines.
If you are unsure which path fits, ask the agency or an attorney. You can often pursue both at the same time.
Consider writing down what happened soon after an event while the details are fresh, including names, times and exact words if you remember them.
What happens after I file?
The agency that handles complaints reviews what you submitted and decides whether to accept it, then investigates or seeks resolution. Timelines vary and outcomes cannot be promised. You may be contacted for more information, so keep your contact details current.
Retaliation for filing a complaint or taking part in a civil rights matter is prohibited. If you believe it is happening, tell the agency right away.
Even if you decide not to file, you can still share concerns with your local extension office or a farm advocacy group so that patterns can be seen.
Where can I find support?
Extension offices, farm advocacy organizations and legal aid groups can explain your options and, in some cases, help with the process. Farm Aid and the National Young Farmers Coalition are examples of groups that publish resources for producers. Bring your documents and ask what help is available in your area.
If you are a beginning farmer, ask your service center about outreach events designed to introduce new producers to the programs they may qualify for.
Key takeaways
- USDA programs must be administered without discrimination based on protected characteristics.
- You can ask for language help and accommodations, ideally in writing.
- The USDA program discrimination complaint page explains how and when to file.
- An appeal challenges a decision; a complaint alleges discrimination, and both have deadlines.
- Retaliation is prohibited, and outside groups and attorneys can help you.
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.