Crop Insurance Study Finds Payout Differences Persist

University of Illinois researchers say loss ratios and indemnity patterns remained consistent with previous years.

URBANA, Ill. (RFD News) — A new University of Illinois study found the federal crop insurance program performed largely in line with historical trends in 2025, though indemnity payments varied by crop.

Researchers found the program posted a below-average loss last year, with total indemnities remaining lower than total premiums.

The study found corn and soybeans recorded the lowest loss ratios, while rice, peanuts and cotton generated much larger indemnity payouts.

Researchers said those differences have remained consistent over time, with Midwest producers generally receiving smaller net crop insurance benefits than growers in other regions.

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Knoxville native Neal Burnette-Irwin is a graduate from MTSU where he majored in Journalism and Entertainment Studies. He works as a digital content producer with RFD News and is represented by multiple talent agencies in Nashville and Chicago.


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