RPA announcement - your questions answered

Why has the RPA abandoned the online BPS system?

Do I need to do any of my application online?

The RPA says:

“Farmers still need to register using the online Rural Payments service to begin the process of making their claim. So far over 80% of farmer businesses have successfully done this. It remains the only way that farmers and their agents can register to make a claim.”

If you haven’t already registered, call the RPA on 03000 200 301.

What will happen to the data I have already uploaded via Rural Payments on Gov.uk ?

Data that has already been entered onto the system has been saved and will be used.

The RPA say they have started to email all farmers and agents who have already registered on the Rural Payments website to provide further detail on completing and submitting claims.

RPA Chief Executive, Mark Grimshaw said:

“Having listened to feedback, the RPA will now combine existing forms that farming businesses are used to, with data that the Rural Payments system already has. This will mean that everyone who is registered and wants to complete a 2015 Basic Payment Scheme claim can do so.”

Where can I get the paper forms from?

From 23rd March, two forms will be available to download from the RPA's website. These are:

• RLE1, which allows claimants to transfer land and entitlements and make changes to their land;

• BP5, the BPS claim form

We expect farmers to receive notification from the RPA shortly on how to claim and when pre-populated forms may be available for use.

Will I still get my BPS payment on time this year?

Secretary of State Elizabeth Truss has given reassurance that enough resources will be made available so BPS payments can be made in good time later this year.

The RPA has reaffirmed this in their statement in which they state they will be able to make payments in December to farmers.

What is the deadline for BPS applications?

Following an EU announcement Defra can now put back the BPS application deadline to June 15. This is yet to be confirmed and the deadline currently remains on May 15.

Is there any additional support to help me with my application?

All farmers and their agents can get tailored help at any of the 50 RPA drop-in centres or by calling the RPA helpline on 03000 200 301. The RPA is also providing mobile units to help reach the most isolated and vulnerable farmers.

Want to find out more: Read the RPA's statement in full.