The RPA has now sent all paper forms and email invites to those expected to claim… but who gets what?
- If you claimed online for SPS 2014 you should have received a number of emails with links to the online application process, guidance and how to apply online from the RPA. You should have also received, in the post, a paper version of the ‘How to apply online’ guidance.
- If you claimed via paper application form for SPS 2014, you should have received your application pack from the RPA. This should include a covering letter, BP5 form, BPS 2016 Handbook and guidance on how to apply on paper and how to apply online.
- If an agent submitted a paper application form on your behalf in 2014, you or your agent will not receive a paper application form this year. Your claim will instead fall within the online process.
NB: If an agent completes a claim on your behalf you should still receive the paper guidance. If this doesn’t land on your doormat then we would urge you to visit the RPA webpage set out below to access the guidance you need.
How the RPA can help…
For everything rural businesses need to know about the Basic Payment Scheme (BPS) in 2016, including how to claim BPS online using the Rural Payments service visit the BPS 2016 homepage.
We would urge all members to look at the ‘help to apply section’ within the BPS 2016 homepage. Here you can find extra information on how to apply via the BPS 2016: Hints and tips on making your application document. This guide should prove helpful should you be experiencing any issues with your 2015 payment or believe your prepopulated 2016 claim data is incorrect. You can also watch video tutorials about how to claim BPS online.
This simplification of guidance is a direct result of NFU lobbying, in order to improve on member experiences of BPS 2015.
How the NFU is helping its members…
The NFU continues to keep the pressure on the RPA regarding 2015 payments, this includes lobbying for partial payments for those yet to be paid. At the same time we continue to support our members with their 2016 applications. Below are three useful links...
- BPS Briefing: 2015 claim payment issues and 2016 form completion
Our latest BPS briefing looks at some crucial areas of concern for NFU members, including claim statements, emerging findings, completing the BPS 2016 application claim form and 2015 payment issues. Read more ...
- NFU FAQs on BPS 2016
Frequently asked questions about BPS 2016. We have raised a number of issues directly with the RPA. Read more ...
- Problems with BPS? NFU CallFirst are here to help – 0370 845 8458
Our CallFirst team of specialist advisers provide guidance and support for thousands of NFU members. How can we help you through the BPS process? Read more ...
