Many payments will be later than normal with most payments occurring after 2017 IACS forms are handed in to the Department.

There has been no date provided for when LFASS payments will be made. However, LFASS claimants have been offered the option of a loan, similar to the loan offered last year. The loan will be based the amount of land claimed and the value of the business’s 2015 LFASS claim.

This comes out of a specific £50m fund designed to support farmers and crofters awaiting their 2016 LFASS payment. Letters from the Scottish Government will be issued before the end of April with more information.