USDA Express Loan Act of 2026

HR 7426, the USDA Express Loan Act of 2026, streamlines the application and approval process for USDA-guaranteed farm loans. It requires a simplified application form for real estate and operating loans under $1 million and mandates that the USDA approve or disapprove complete applications within 5 business days. The bill also sets new guarantee caps: 90% for loans up to $125,000, 75% for $125,000-$500,000, and 50% for $500,000-$1 million. Additionally, it creates an accelerated process for business and industry loans under $400,000 (up to $600,000 with low default risk) to assist rural businesses. This directly affects farmers, ranchers, and rural businesses seeking USDA-guaranteed loans through participating lenders.