The USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) is expanding payment options to now accept debit cards and Automated Clearing House debit. These paperless payment options enable FSA customers to pay farm loan payments, measurement service fees, farm program debt repayments and administrative service fees, as well as to purchase aerial maps.

Previously, only cash, check, money orders and wires were accepted. The USDA says offering the alternatives will improve effectiveness and convenience to customers while being more cost effective. If half of existing customers use the new payment options, the agency will save approximately $1 million dollars per year. Ultimately, this option will be extended to all FSA programs.