Vermont's Organic Reimbursement Program: Here's the Deal

Attention, organic producers and handlers in Vermont! The Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets (VAAFM) has collaborated with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) to offer a fantastic reimbursement opportunity for those with USDA-accredited organic certification.The Offer:

If you've achieved organic certification between October 1 and September 30, you may qualify for a reimbursement of up to 75% of your direct certification costs, with a maximum of $750 per certification scope. There are four eligible scopes: crops, livestock, wild crops, and handling. Ensure each scope is individually inspected to be eligible.Eligibility:

This is open to those who've recently acquired or renewed certification under the National Organic Program (NOP). Unfortunately, operations in transition to organic or with suspended, revoked, or withdrawn certifications cannot participate.

Reimbursable Costs Include:

• Application fees
• Inspection fees, including travel and per diem
• USDA organic certification costs
• Postage
• Specific State Organic Program fees

Non-reimbursable Costs:

• Any inspections due to violations
• Non-USDA certifications 
• Transitional certifications
• Additional costs such as late fees and membership fees

Application Details:

The deadline is November 1, 2023.If you're certified through the Vermont Organic Farmers (VOF) program, contact NOFA-VOF for a streamlined application process. For all other USDA-certified operations, please submit your application, current W-9 Form, organic certification copy, and a detailed receipt for the qualifying period.Mail your application to: Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets

Organic Reimbursement Program

116 State Street

Montpelier, VT 05620-2901