A COMMERCIAL property agent is urging farmers to act now to make sure they don’t miss the May 15 deadline for claims under the new Basic Payment Scheme.

Introduced as part of the CAP reform initiative, a new online system will now administer BPS.

The web-based system, which was created by the Rural Payments Agency, is now compulsory for all applicants, allowing them to submit annual claims, map land, alter personal and business details and transfer entitlements.

It means all existing paper forms now obsolete so those needing to claim will have to do it online.

Ben Compton, from Bruton Knowles, is now advising farmers to make sure they are aware of the deadline and that they make provisions now to get their claims in via this new online system.

Mr Compton said: “Many farmers will be used to how the system worked in the past so need to be reminded that claims have to be made online.

“We represent many famers and agricultural businesses and although many appreciate that the changes are necessary, what we’ve found is that implementing them online has proved a bit of a hurdle, especially where there is poor broadband and internet access.

“The worst thing to do however is nothing. Our advice is to give us a ring and we’ll guide them through all that is required making sure they comply with this new system on time, with the minimum of fuss and disruption to their working day.

“The team here is fully up to speed on the new BPS and can help guide farmers through the new system making sure they don’t miss out.”