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1.2 USING THE HANDBOOK
The Handbook is organized to allow the reader to look up information on specific topics easily. There is a detailed Table of Contents that provides a guide to finding particular topics. In addition, several graphic tools and conventions have been used to make information easier to find and understand.
A. Citations
x Regulatory citations. The regulation for the SFHGLP is provided in 7 CFR Part
3555 and the text of that regulation is provided in Appendix 1. To assist readers in locating the regulatory authority for procedures described here, references to
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this regulation often appear in brackets, for example: [7 CFR 3555.55]. Other regulations or Rural Development instructions are simply referenced.
x Cross references. Topics discussed in more than one place in the Handbook are
cross-referenced to help the reader find other related information more easily.
x Form references. Agency form names are shown in italics. A list of all forms
referenced in this Handbook can be found in Appendix 2.
B. Attachments and Appendices
x Attachments. Attachments at the end of each chapter contain technical
information that is specific to the topics covered in the chapter. Attachments are referenced in sequence using the chapter number and an attachment letter. For example, Attachment 4-A is the first attachment in Chapter 4.
x Appendices. Appendices include forms and other reference materials that relate
to multiple chapters.
x Glossary and acronym lists. Key words and terms are defined in the glossary.
A list of acronyms and their definitions is also provided. The glossary and acronym lists can be found after the appendices.
C. Terminology
The SFHGLP has a centralized delivery platform under the Origination and Processing Division (OPD). Servicing operations are located at the Servicing Office. This Handbook uses certain standard terminology to provide consistency.
x Agency. The organizational unit within the United States Department of
Agriculture (USDA) that is responsible for administering the SFHGLP.
x Lender. A financial institution that has been approved to participate in the
SFHGLP. The term is used to refer to entities that underwrite and apply for loan guarantees, service SFHGLP loans, or purchase SFHGLP loans from other entities.
x Servicing Office. The servicing center in St. Louis, Missouri where specific
servicing functions, such as loss mitigation and loss claims, are processed.
x Agency staff. An Agency employee who is responsible for implementing the
requirements of the SFHGLP on behalf of the Agency.
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x Applicant. One or more individuals who have applied for a guaranteed loan.
x Borrower. One or more individuals who have received a guaranteed loan.