For Immediate Release

July 16, 2012

Contact:

Vickie A. Lane (334)279-3501

Montgomery, Alabama – July 16, 2012-- USDA Alabama Farm Service Agency (FSA) State Executive Director Daniel Robinson announced that FSA is moving towards an electronic method for processing check payments from customers.

Using the electronic method, when a producer submits a paper check payment, either in person or through the mail, the check will be converted into an Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) using Over the Counter Channel (OTCnet), a web-based application.

According to Robinson, OTCnet will be implemented in a select number of counties throughout the state for 2012, but all counties will be transitioned into OTCnet by the end of 2013.

"It is important for producers to have sufficient funds in their bank account because the electronic transfer of funds could occur within 24 hours," said Robinson.

FSA will hold the paper check for up to 14 calendar days to ensure that the transaction was successfully processed and then the check will be shredded. The producer will not receive the paper check back from FSA.

"The new electronic check processing system will benefit the Agency and producers," said Robinson. "The new system will reduce the possibility of losing or misplacing checks, speed up the check clearing process and reduce the potential for human error," he said.

For more information regarding electronic check processing and to determine if OTCnet is offered in your county, contact your local FSA office.

To file a complaint of discrimination, write to USDA, Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights, Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Avenue, S.W., Stop 9410, Washington, DC 20250-9410, or call toll-free at (866) 632-9992 (English) or (800) 877-8339 (TDD) or (866) 377-8642 (English Federal-relay) or (800) 845-6136 (Spanish Federal-relay). USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.