About USDA Rural Development Section 502 Direct Certified Loan Application Packaging Training
The USDA Section 502 Direct Certified Loan Application Packaging course is an advanced course that covers USDA Rural Development's Section 502 Direct (502D) Loan Program and provides critical information on utilization of this homeownership financing resource that can be used to assist potential borrowers.
Learn how your organization can assist potential borrowers and work in partnership with RD staff in your state to deliver successful 502D Certified Packaging loan packages. Through the course, designed for those experienced in using 502D Certified Packaging participants will learn the regulations and practical applications of the loan program.
Participants will develop a strong understanding of 502D Certified Packaging underwriting and packaging standards which submitted loan packages are complete and accessible for processing.
USDA Policy Update
With the posting of Procedure Notice (PN) 655 dated February 10, 2026, changes were made to Handbook 1-3550, Chapters 3-8 and 10, as well as Appendix 3.
In addition to other updates outlined in the PN, the permissible packaging fee has been changed to $750 for all approved packaging types including certified packaging bodies.
Please review the information before registering for the 502Direct Certified training course.
Certified Packages submitted through an Intermediary continue to receive Priority 4 processing. Please check with your Intermediary on the current process and fee split.
Intermediary Participation Notice
Please note that some intermediaries may not be accepting new packagers at this time.
Individuals and organizations are encouraged to confirm intermediary availability before registering for the training.
Training Disclaimer
Participation in the USDA Section 502 Direct Loan Packaging Training provides education on the packaging process.
Completion of the training does not guarantee certification, approval to package loans, or placement with an intermediary.
If a minimum of 20 participants have not registered by the registration/cancellation deadline, the non-Agency trainer may, at their discretion, cancel the course and refer registrants to future offering(s). The cancellation policy must be clearly posted on the registration site and be a minimum of 21 days prior to the scheduled class. For cancellations due to limited registration, the non-Agency trainer shall notify registered participants by email at least 21 days prior to the scheduled training. If cancellations are due to unforeseen or emergency circumstances, such as natural disaster, severe weather conditions, instructor illness, or other circumstances beyond our control and arrangements cannot be made for substitute instructors, the non-Agency trainer may
cancel the training and notify registered participants by email as soon as possible.
This advanced course is intended for those with previous experience working with this program.
Training Fees
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In-Person Training: Max fee $825
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Online Training: Max fee $550
🔍 Note: Prices may vary. Please check with the host training agency to confirm the final amount.