Non–Starlink Debit Cards
The payments to corn producers for the Non-Starlink Settlement are finally being made. The payments are on debit cards, which are being sent directly to producers for the settlement amount that is owed to them. The payment amount on eligible corn acres is more than $3/acre, which amounts to a nice-sized payment for many producers. The debit cards can be used for merchandise, including a special discount with one major retailer. The debit cards can be converted to cash for a $10 fee charged by the National Financial Institution. Some local banks, including MinnStar Bank, are providing the debit card cashing service for their customers. Producers should check with their local banks regarding procedures for cashing the debit cards in their area. Producers should also be careful not to discard the debit card or the letter that was sent prior to receiving the card.
Since the beginning, there has been nothing easy for producers in dealing with the Non-Starlink payment process. Maybe that was intentional! Anyway, the long-awaited Non-Starlink payments to corn producers have finally arrived. The Non-StarLink settlement is not an FSA Program, and farm operators should not call their County FSA Office with questions. There is a Non-StarLink Helpline available to assist producers. The toll-free phone number is (888) 833-4317.
Editors note: Kent Thiesse is a former University of Minnesota Extension educator and now is Vice President of MinnStar Bank, Lake Crystal, MN. You can contact him at 507-726-2137 or via e-mail at kent.thiesse@minnstarbank.com.
