WASHINGTON, D.C. (RFD-TV) — As the year winds down, many farmers are taking a close look at their balance sheets and cash-flow records to prepare for tax season and make smart decisions about input purchases for the year ahead. With 2026 operating line of credit applications underway, financial planning is top of mind across the countryside.
Joe Peiffer with Ag & Business Legal Strategies joined us on Monday’s Market Day Report to offer timely end-of-year guidance.
In his interview with RFD-TV News, Peiffer outlined the key records and materials farmers need to have updated before applying for their 2026 operating line of credit. He also discussed some of the most common mistakes producers make during the application process and how avoiding those pitfalls can improve their chances of approval.
Peiffer addressed the frequent end-of-year rush to purchase equipment in hopes of claiming capital expenses on spring tax returns. He shared several important factors farmers should weigh when deciding whether to buy now or hold off until next year. He also explained how a producer’s current debt load should influence that decision.
Finally, Peiffer cautioned farmers to think carefully before making a purchase they are only “mostly sure” they need before the end of the year, highlighting why the perceived tax advantage may not outweigh long-term financial considerations.
Strong yields and higher cattle prices helped stabilize conditions, but weak crop prices and rising carryover debt remain major challenges for Eleventh District farmers.
November 25, 2025 02:55 PM
·
Former Market Day Report anchor Janet Adkison was inducted into the National Association of Farm Broadcasting Hall of Fame, recognizing over 20 years of service sharing stories that impact Rural America.
November 25, 2025 02:43 PM
·
Jake Charleston, with Specialty Risk Insurance, joins us now for an industry update and advice for cattle producers as they consider options for managing the risks of a murky market.
November 25, 2025 01:26 PM
·
The National Milk Producers Federation will launch a new advocacy campaign to secure a final vote, urging House lawmakers to approve the bill as soon as they return from the Thanksgiving recess.
November 25, 2025 01:09 PM
·
AFBF Vice President of Public Policy and Economic Analysis, Dr. John Newton, explains the factors contributing to the growing financial strain in the ag sector and the urgent need for swift economic support.
November 25, 2025 12:40 PM
·
A regional snapshot of harvest pace, crop conditions, logistics, and livestock economics across U.S. agriculture, prepared by RFD-TV Markets Specialist Tony St. James, for the week of Monday, November 24, 2025.
November 24, 2025 02:56 PM
·
Olivia Bury, AgriSafe Network Behavioral Health Coordinator, shares about AgriSafe Network’s resources created to support farmers and rural Americans.
November 24, 2025 01:04 PM
·
Jael Cruikshank, the newly elected Western Region Vice President, shares her story on this week’s FFA Today.
November 24, 2025 12:52 PM
·
Shaun Haney, host of RealAg Radio, provides the latest insight into the timing, expectations, and broader considerations of the potential aid package, despite increasing exports to China.
November 24, 2025 12:42 PM
·