USDA Wool Marketing Assistance Loans (MALs) and Loan Deficiency Payments (LDPs) are currently available for wool shorn in 2025 and 2026. MALs provide producers with interim financing to meet cash flow needs without having to sell their commodities when market prices low. LDPs are payments made to producers who, although eligible to obtain a CCC loan, agree to forgo the loan in return for a payment on the eligible commodity.
2026 rates for graded wool have increased to $1.60 per pound and ungraded wool to $0.55 per pound.
MALs and LDPs are available until January 31 for wool shorn in 2025. Producers are also encouraged to begin working with their local USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) office before wool is shorn. Producers must have beneficial interest (ownership) of the wool, among other eligibility requirements when receiving an MAL or LDP.
For more information, visit your local FSA Office or visit https://www.sheepusa.org/
