CO-OP Q&A WITH YOUR MEMBER RELATIONS TEAM

What is CFA?

The Cooperative Finance Association (CFA) is an agricultural finance cooperative that offers financing products to our members.

As an ag producer, what does CFA offer me?

CFA offers production ag loans at competitive rates which are originated by Country Partners Cooperative and funded by CFA during the growing season.  There are two primary loan products available: Simpli-Fi by CFA and Input Advantage.

What’s the difference between the two loan programs?

Simpli-Fi loans have a simple, one-page application to start the process and can be up to $350,000 based on information submitted in your application.  Funds received through the program can be used for agronomy, seed and chemicals, and fuel purchases at Country Partners Cooperative.  Input Advantage loans can be up to $4,000,000 based on additional information included in your application.

What is the benefit of using CFA financing?

Country Partners Cooperative collaborates with CFA to offer competitive interest rates and easy online access.  Additionally, our local team stays involved through the process from origination to payoff, allowing for you to work with people you trust.  Finally, CFA is member-owned and member-led since it is also a cooperative.

What do you mean that CFA is a cooperative?

That means that Country Partners Cooperative receives an annual patronage allocation from CFA based upon our pro-rate share of interest accrued on loans we originate.  Another cooperative principle is governance by members.  Country Partners Cooperative is proud to have our CEO, Tod Clark, as a member of the CFA Board of Directors.

What are the rates for the 2021 Crop Input Finance Programs?

• 2021 Seed & Chemical Program: 0.00% Fixed interest rate for qualified seed and chemical purchases until 11/30/21, then 6.25%* variable interest rate through 1/15/22.
• 2021 Agronomy Program: 3.25%* Variable interest rate for agronomy purchases until 11/30/21, then 6.25%* variable interest rate through 1/15/22.
• 2021 Fuel Program: 6.25%* Variable interest rate for all fuel purchases through 1/15/22.

*As of September 4, 2020, variable interest rates are based on the CFA Advantage Rate.  CFA interest rate indices are published at www.cfafs.com/interest-rates

How do I apply for CFA financing?

Applying for CFA financing is easy.  An application for the Simpli-Fi by CFA loan product can be filled out online or on paper and has a fast approval process.  The Input Advantage Loan does require a full financial analysis but CFA has a team of dedicated loan officers to help you through the process.

Once I have received loan approval for CFA financing, how does the loan advance process work?

Once your CFA loan is approved, please review your monthly Country Partners Cooperative statement and contact our Credit Department to request loan advances from your available CFA funds.  We will work with you to make it a convenient monthly process.

How do I review my loan and pay it off?

CFA offers an online portal to view your loan account and make electronic payments.  There is no prepayment penalty.

Who should I talk to if I have more questions?

Please reach out to Janell Rossen, Country Partners Cooperative Credit Manager, at 308-537-7141 or talk with your local agronomy sales representative, and we’d be happy to help answer your questions.

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To check out all Country Partners Cooperative’s financing options, click here.