The U.S. Department of Agriculture is reminding farmers that several important crop insurance deadlines are approaching for fall-planted crops.
USDA officials say the next major sales closing dates are Sept. 1 and Sept. 30, although specific deadlines vary by crop and location.
Producers planning for the 2027 crop year are encouraged to contact their crop insurance agent well before the applicable deadline to review available policies and determine whether changes to their coverage are needed.
Crop insurance can help protect agricultural producers against financial losses resulting from adverse weather, declines in production and other covered risks. Coverage options, eligibility requirements and deadlines depend on the crop and county.
Farmers should review their operation, expected acreage and risk-management needs with an insurance agent before making coverage decisions. Producers who already have crop insurance may also want to review their existing policies to make sure their coverage remains appropriate for the upcoming growing season.
USDA officials stress that sales closing dates are important because producers generally must apply for coverage or make certain changes to existing policies by the applicable deadline.
The federal crop insurance program is administered by USDA's Risk Management Agency and delivered through approved private crop insurance companies and agents.
Producers can contact their crop insurance agent for deadlines and coverage options specific to their operation.