Some 23,000 black farmers already have sought assistance on taking advantage of a multi-million dollar settlement of a suit against USDA for racial discrimination.  Two years ago, black farmers sued, alleging they had been denied access to government loans and subsidies.

Farmers have two options, according to Washington, DC, attorney Alex Pires, the lead attorney for the farmers.  One is to accept a $50,000 payment plus $12,500 to cover taxes, and the other is to go before an independent arbitrator and seek larger damages.  In that case, a panel of retired judges will review the final decision.

Pires said up to 95% of the claims probably will be for the $50,000 payment plus taxes.  It is expected the entire settlement could cost the government some $2 billion.

Farmers have 180 days from April 14 to sign up for the payment plus taxes option and 240 days to take the option of arbitration, Pires said.  “We’re now going state to state to have people sign up” for the settlement, he added.

To get a package of materials designed to provide guidance for farmers, a toll-free telephone number is available.  The number is 1-800-646-2873.