After months of preparing records, building an Organic System Plan (OSP), and learning the certification process, every farm reaches another important decision: Which organic certifying agency should you work with?
For first-time applicants, the answer is not always obvious.
Fortunately, understanding what certifying agencies do—and how they differ—can help you make a more informed decision.
What Is an Organic Certifying Agency?
An organic certifying agency is an organization approved by the USDA. Its job is to evaluate farms and businesses applying for organic certification.
The agency reviews your application, evaluates your Organic System Plan (OSP), coordinates inspections, and determines whether your operation meets USDA organic standards.
What Does a Certifying Agency Do?
A certifying agency typically:
- reviews your application
- evaluates your OSP
- schedules inspections
- reviews inspection reports
- requests additional information when needed
- issues certification decisions
Every agency follows USDA regulations. However, application processes, fees, and customer support can vary.
Are All Organic Certifying Agencies the Same?
No.
While every USDA-accredited certifier follows the same National Organic Program (NOP) standards, agencies can differ in areas such as:
- customer service
- response times
- geographic coverage
- inspection scheduling
- certification costs
- experience with specific crops or livestock
These differences may influence your overall certification experience.
For example, some agencies specialize in certain crops or regions.
Questions to Ask Before Choosing a Certifier
Before applying, consider asking:
- Do they certify farms in my state?
- What are the certification fees?
- How long does the review process usually take?
- What support do they provide during the application?
- Do they have experience with operations similar to mine?
Can You Change Certifying Agencies?
Yes.
Many certified organic farms transfer to another certifier over time.
However, the new agency will still review your records and certification history before completing the transfer.
How Farm Records Help the Process
Regardless of which certifier you choose, organized documentation remains essential.
Keeping accurate:
- field records
- input records
- harvest logs
- sales documentation
- OSP updates
will make the certification process much smoother.
Read: What Records Organic Farmers Need to Keep for Certification
Read: The Farmer’s Guide to NOP Record Keeping Requirements
Read: Organic System Plan (OSP) Explained for Farmers
Common Mistakes When Choosing a Certifier
Some farms:
- choose based only on price
- wait too long to contact a certifier
- overlook inspection timelines
- fail to ask questions before applying
Taking time to compare agencies often leads to a smoother certification experience.
Ultimately, choosing the right certifier is about finding the best fit for your operation.
Frequently Asked Questions
→ Does USDA certify farms directly?
No. USDA accredits certifying agencies, but those agencies perform the certification process.
→ Can I choose any certifying agency?
Generally, yes, as long as the agency serves your location and operation.
→ Does choosing a different certifier change USDA standards?
No. All accredited certifiers follow the USDA National Organic Program standards.
→ Should I contact a certifier before applying?
Yes. Many agencies are happy to answer questions before you submit your application.
Choosing an organic certifying agency is more than just checking a box on the certification process.
The right agency can guide you through inspections, answer questions, and help make the certification journey more manageable.
No matter which certifier you choose, organized records and a well-maintained Organic System Plan will remain the foundation of a successful organic operation.
