Federal Program Updates: Professional Overview

Jan 28, 2026


Producer Ag Crop Insurance continues to keep our clients informed regarding recent program changes, official announcements, and ongoing challenges within the agricultural sector. USDA and FSA initiatives have become increasingly significant, impacting growers nationwide. Below is a summary of the key topics frequently discussed with our insured producers. For additional details or personalized guidance, please contact one of the Producer Ag Crop Insurance Specialists.
 

OBBB Crop Insurance Summary

1. Enhanced Crop Insurance Solutions

OBBB has expanded financial support for new insurance products, increased subsidies, and introduced greater flexibility—empowering growers to protect their income and mitigate risk more effectively.

2. Improved ARC & PLC Reference Prices

Reference prices have increased by 10%–20%, with an added inflation adjustment to help stabilize revenues for operations producing corn, soybeans, wheat, and milo.

3. Streamlined 2025 Program Year

For 2025, growers will automatically receive the higher benefit between ARC and PLC, with annual program elections resuming in 2026.

4. Revised Payment Limits

Payment limits have increased to $155,000 and will adjust for inflation. Multi-entity operations may now qualify for expanded eligibility.

5. Broadened Disaster & Conservation Program Access

The removal of the $900,000 AGI cap (for those with at least 75% farm income) allows more producers to access emergency and conservation support programs.

6. Enhanced Risk Management

OBBB fortifies agricultural safety nets against variable rainfall, hail, drought, and market volatility, providing growers with increased financial security.

 

SDRP Program: Key Features Comparison

Feature SDRP Stage 1 SDRP Stage 2
Intended for Losses triggering crop insurance or NAP payments Losses not triggering payments or uninsured losses
Loss Types Covered Indemnified losses Shallow, uninsured, and quality losses
Prefilled Application Yes Yes
Sign-up Window Began July 10, 2025 November 24, 2025 – April 30, 2026
Quality Loss Assistance Partial Full
Walk-ins Allowed No No – appointment required
Multi-County Farming N/A Single application for all counties
Funding Distributed $5.7B+ (as of Nov 2025) Approx. $10B remaining


 

Farmer Bridge Assistance (FBA) Program Overview

Program Description

The Farmer Bridge Assistance (FBA) Program offers one-time, per-acre payments for the 2025 crop year. This initiative supports growers in managing low commodity prices, elevated input costs, and market disruptions ahead of the full implementation of the 2026 farm bill.

Automated Application Process

USDA/FSA will provide pre-filled applications based on the producer’s 2025 planted acreage, thereby reducing administrative burden and streamlining the process.

Timely Payment Distribution

Payments will be issued no later than February 28, 2026, following the processing of pre-filled forms by FSA.

Insurance Requirement

While crop insurance is recommended, it is not a prerequisite for receiving FBA payments.

2025 Per-Acre Payment Rates

Corn: $44.36/acre

Eligibility & Payment Limits

• Maximum payment cap of $155,000 per producer

Program Purpose

The FBA Program is designed to provide immediate financial support, helping growers bridge the gap from 2025 to 2026 when comprehensive farm bill enhancements take effect.

Summary for Producers

The FBA Program offers straightforward per-acre financial assistance to help stabilize farm operations and prepare growers for the 2026 season.
 

Read More News

Jan 28, 2026

The latest USDA report was bearish for corn, soybeans, and wheat, driven by higher production and rising ending stocks. Increased yields and harvested acres pressured corn prices, while higher soybean acres and weaker export demand lifted both U.S. and global stocks. Wheat markets also faced pressure as larger supplies and higher global production outweighed expectations for tighter inventories. With ongoing market uncertainty, having a clear grain marketing plan is critical, and producers are encouraged to reach out to their grain marketing specialist for guidance.

Oct 24, 2025
Pasture, Rangeland, and Forage (PRF) insurance helps livestock producers manage drought-related forage losses using area-based rainfall data from NOAA. Producers choose key two-month intervals and coverage levels between 70–90% to fit their needs. If rainfall falls below average, PRF provides payments to offset costs. Enroll by December 1 and ensure ownership or lease documentation is ready.
Oct 24, 2025
Harvest season is here, and for Kansas farmers, that means long days in the field and plenty of decisions about wheat planting and grain storage. With so much uncertainty in today’s markets, it’s more important than ever to have a solid marketing plan in place.