Farmers Get Extra Month to Claim Vital BPS and Environmental Payments
The government has just handed farmers and land managers an extra lifeline. The deadline for submitting Basic Payment Scheme (BPS) applications and claims for environmental and woodland funding has been pushed back to 15 June 2020.
BPS and Environmental Claims Deadline Extended
The coronavirus chaos forced the government’s hand, giving farmers a full month more to file BPS claims and make Countryside Stewardship (CS), Environmental Stewardship (ES), and woodland legacy revenue applications without facing penalties.
This extension helps farmers and their agents dodge fines amid ongoing Covid disruption. The Rural Payments Agency (RPA) urges farmers to submit claims online ASAP through the Rural Payments Service, where thousands have already applied.
Key Dates to Remember
- New CS Higher Tier applications are open until 1 May 2020.
- Mid Tier schemes accept applications until 31 July 2020.
- Amendment period without penalty now runs through 30 June 2020.
- Final BPS and environmental claims must reach RPA by 10 July 2020.
Expert Support Continues Despite Social Distancing
Natural England and Forestry Commission staff are still offering advice via phone and video for Higher Tier applicants. Meanwhile, off-farm clinics help Mid Tier applicants fine-tune applications and get top tips – all without site visits.
“We’re fully focused on making vital payments to the rural community and helping customers submit their claims and applications during this difficult time,” said RPA Chief Executive Paul Caldwell.
“We know coronavirus is causing issues where farmers can’t meet their agents, so we made this extension to give the farming community more time to submit without penalty. We urge them to apply as soon as they can, using the online service.”
Farmers can also update their personal and business details, transfer entitlements, and manage land parcels online via the Rural Payments Service — keeping everything moving despite the pandemic.
