Handler Certification Fees

  • Fees are based on projected gross organic sales.
  • A base fee of $300, plus a $350 inspection fee deposit must be submitted with application. If inspection costs exceed this deposit, they will be billed; if less, the difference will be refunded.
  • A fee of 1/2 of 1% of organic sales, up to a maximum fee of $10,000 per calendar year, is assessed.
  • Additional fees may be charged based on the complexity of the Organic Handling Plan. Complexity of the operation includes number of facilities to be inspected, number of products, labels, ingredients and material suppliers.
  • Multiple locations may require separate inspections.
  • Interest will be charged on past due accounts at a rate of 1.5% per month. Certification will be suspended on accounts more than 60 days past due.

Certification Fee Refund Policy

    Application fees are refundable in the following instances:
  • Withdrawal of Initial Application, following the Initial Office Review and Prior to Inspection Visit: If, based upon the initial review of the application, the applicant does not qualify for certification, the certification fee paid less $300 to cover administrative costs associated with establishing records and the file review process will be returned.
  • If the applicant chooses not to continue with the certification process prior to the actual inspection visit, the certification fee paid less $300 to cover administrative costs and less any inspector costs incurred, will be refunded to the applicant. The applicant must notify the program, in writing, within 90 days of receipt of application by office.
  • Withdrawal of Initial Application, after the completion of the Initial Office Review, and the Inspection Visit: By written request, new applicants may withdraw their application at any time during the certification process. The applicant is liable for the costs of services up to the withdrawal date including: $300 to cover administrative costs, $15.00 to cover OMRI subscription, the costs associated with the inspection of the operation, and other costs associated with the completion of work to date
  • All refund requests must be submitted, in writing, within 90 days of the inspection visit. No refunds will be made later than 90 days after the inspection visit.