Young/New Farmer Certification Form Published March 27, 2015 12:00 am The long-awaited Certification Form for applications under the BPS in England is now available online. This form should be used for both the grant of entitlements from the National Reserve and for claiming the Young Farmers Payment. The ‘Accountant or Solicitor Certificate to Confirm New or Young Farmer Status’ along with Guidance is available from – https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/accountant-or-solicitor-certificate-to-confirm-new-or-young-farmer-status-for-the-basic-payment-scheme. Forms should be submitted to the RPA by 15th June 2015. The intention to apply should also be indicated on the BP5 form. Claimants will need to give evidence to a solicitor/accountant to review and demonstrate the following; Who is ‘in control’ of the business; the percentage of shares (or profit shares) and percentage of votes held. If more than one person is ‘in control’ details of any agreement to vote together will be needed. For New Farmers, the date agricultural activity started For Young Farmer, the date the claimant became head of the holding (in control) Date of birth The Guidance notes contain full details of what evidence can be used. It does not seem too arduous, partnership agreements, evidence of inheritance, driving licence etc can all be used.
