Enables socially disadvantaged applicants to buy and operate family-sized farms and ranches. For purposes of this program, socially disadvantaged groups include: women, African Americans, American Indians and Alaskan Natives, Hispanics, and Asians and Pacific Islanders. Application for Direct loan assistance may be made at FSA office in county where operation is located. For Guaranteed Loans, applicants must apply to a commercial lender who participates in the Guaranteed Program. Contact the state office above for referral to local/regional office. Loan amounts range from $0 – $200,000 for Direct Loans and $0 – $717,000 for Guaranteed Loans (amount varies annually based on inflation). Applicants must meet all requirements for FSA’s regular farm loan program assistance. Must have education, training, and experience in managing/operating a farm; must be U.S. citizen; must have acceptable credit history. Contact Farm Service Agency, U.S. Department of Agriculture, 1400 Independence Ave., SW, Washington, DC 20250; 202-720-7807; {www.fsa.usda.gov}.