Scotland's farmers urged to submit Single Application Form

The SAF allows the Scottish Government to administer CAP support
The SAF allows the Scottish Government to administer CAP support

Scotland's farmers and crofters are being urged to submit their Single Application Form (SAF) online "as soon as possible".

This year’s SAF window, where applicants submit claims for support under the Common Agricultural Policy’s (CAP) Pillar 1 and 2 schemes, is now open and runs until midnight on 15 May 2018.

Scotland's Rural Secretary Fergus Ewing said farmers must submit their applications "as soon as possible" and not wait until the last moment.

“Although we will still accept paper applications, the online system is specifically designed to simplify the process by automatically checking applications for errors – reducing the risk of financial penalties,” Mr Ewing said.

“Indeed more than three quarters of farmers and crofters benefited from submitting their SAF online last year, allowing for their application to be validated straightaway.

Mr Ewing added: “Support is being offered to farmers, crofters and land managers who wish to make the switch to applying online – a move I would encourage everyone to consider.”

The SAF allows the Scottish Government's Rural Payments and Inspections Division (RPID) to administer CAP support.

It is the form that farmers and crofters must submit to claim payments under a number of different schemes.

In a statement, the Scottish government explained that it will still accept paper applications and will send a paper application to those customers who have made contact making clear that they still choose to apply that way.

For further information about applying, farmers, crofters and land managers should contact their local area office.