Full online application process now available for 2016 BPS
Farmers and agents can now begin submitting 2016 BPS online applications
Farmers and agents can now begin submitting 2016 Basic Payment Scheme (BPS) online applications, the Rural Payments Agency (RPA) announced today (21 March).
Since the Rural Payments service went live for 2016 BPS over a fortnight ago, thousands of farmers and agents have logged on.
RPA Chief Executive Mark Grimshaw said:
The Rural Payments service is working well and some 10,000 entitlements and over 31,000 hectares of land have been transferred so far. Anyone who wants to submit an application for the 2016 Basic Payment Scheme can now do so.
Farmers and agents can log into the service to check details, make any required changes, complete declarations and submit an application.
Applicants can view and print their application and, if no changes are required, they can simply make their declarations and submit it online. Those who need to make changes can update their application, check it is correct and submit it online.
Submitting applications online has a number of benefits. Applicants will immediately receive confirmation that their application has been submitted successfully. They can also print their application for their records. The Rural Payments service will make checks before the application can be submitted, which will help applicants get their data right.
The service includes built-in checks to give applicants guidance on meeting greening rules, completing information about their land correctly and making the right declarations.
It is important to have a full and accurate email address on the Rural Payments service as this is how the RPA will be keeping applicants informed.
Support available from the RPA
Full ‘how to apply online’ guidance is available on GOV.UK and around 18,000 paper application packs are being sent to those who have not applied online before. Farmers who receive these pre-populated forms on paper can still apply online in 2016. They need to call the Rural Services helpline on 03000 200 301 to set up an online application.
Help is also available to farmers and agents on the helpline number above and at support centres across the country. To make an appointment farmers and agents should contact the helpline.
The RPA will be making more videos available on their YouTube channel. Videos are also available on transferring land, transferring entitlements and a general overview of how to apply online.
The deadline for 2016 BPS applications is midnight on 16 May 2016.