Fisher German have produced a BPS 2016 receipt calculator to check the payment received is as expected. In many of the cases where the payment is incorrect, this is as a result of an error in the 2015 claim payment, which was not rectified prior to the 2016 payment. The RPA are beginning to send out claim statements; these should be checked carefully and any queries over the payment received should be logged with the RPA. Most agents will now have been appointed with a ‘Relationship Manager’ at the RPA, who may be better placed to deal with any queries.

‘Majority’ of BPS 2016 Payments now received

The latest RPA news release stated that 93% of claimants have now received their 2016 BPS payment. Claimants yet to receive a payment are those with common land, cross-border land or those subject to an inspection (physical or remote-sensing).

Entitlements

The entitlements section of the RPA online facility was updated in late 2016, and now shows the total number of entitlements held as well as any recent transfers. This should be checked carefully by claimants as any errors during the processing of the 2015 and/or 2016 claims may have resulted in a loss of entitlements.

It is also a good opportunity to check that the total entitlements held match the claimable land area and consider entitlement trading to correct any difference.

2017 application

The RPA have confirmed that 2017 BPS applications will be made online as for the 2016 claim. The RPA are in the process of updating the aerial imagery and mapping of claimants’ land parcels. However, where changes are made these will not be communicated by letter and it will therefore be important to carefully check the data held prior to making the 2017 application.

The ability to transfer land and entitlements online is expected from mid-February. Unless boundary changes are required, it is recommended to wait and use the online facility rather than complete an RLE1 form, as the online transfers are completed with immediate effect.

Greening

There have been no changes to the greening requirements for 2017. However if greening measures are not correctly in place this year, in addition to losing a proportion of the greening payment (approximately 30% of the total BPS receipt) the RPA can now apply an additional penalty.

NVZ letters

All farmers are being sent letters from DEFRA regarding the newly designated Nitrate Vulnerable Zone (NVZ) areas as of 1 January 2017. Farmers should check the Environment Agency website to see if their land is located within an NVZ. Most areas remain unchanged, with the largest new area of designation being south west Peak District including land around Leek and Ashbourne.

For further information contact Charlotte Gore on 07785 425317 or email here