Citing ongoing challenges to the U.S. farm economy, USDA’s Risk Management Agency (RMA) announced temporary premium payment flexibilities and reinstatement of the option to purchase additional 5% prevented planting coverage.

RMA Administrator Pat Swanson said USDA is providing producers additional flexibility when they need it most, saying the announcement “reflects our commitment to supporting America’s farmers through challenging conditions while ensuring the Federal Crop Insurance Program remains a strong and reliable risk management tool.”

According to Swanson, RMA has authorized Approved Insurance Providers (AIPs) to provide producers with up to 60 additional days to pay crop insurance premiums, administrative fees, and amounts due under Written Payment Agreements with scheduled premium billing dates between July 1, 2026, and Sept. 30, 2026. 

During this extended period, AIPs may waive interest charges. Interest will begin accruing for unpaid premium and administrative fees only after the end of the additional 60-day period or upon reaching the policy’s termination date, whichever occurs first. 

To further support these efforts, Swanson said RMA will defer collection of unpaid producer premiums and administrative fees from AIPs and waive associated interest beginning with the August monthly accounting cycle. 

Prevent Plant buy-up coverage reinstated

Swanson confirmed that RMA is also reinstating the option for insured producers to purchase an additional 5% prevented planting coverage beginning with crops associated with the Aug. 31, 2026, filing date for the 2027 and succeeding crop years. 

This added coverage enhances producers’ ability to manage risk in situations where extreme weather or other conditions prevent normal planting, Swanson added.

According to USDA, the announcements underscore RMA’s commitment to supporting farmers providing needed flexibility and strengthening coverage options during a challenging period for American agriculture. 

AIPs will notify affected policyholders directly regarding these relief measures. For additional information, producers are encouraged to contact their crop insurance agent, including one of the following Farm Bureau Crop Insurance Specialists or multi-line agents for assistance.

Source - https://www.michiganfarmnews.com