NASHVILLE, Tenn. (RFD-TV) — Grain producers across several states are taking urgent steps to protect themselves after Hansen-Mueller Co., an Omaha-based grain dealer with elevators in multiple regions, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy on November 17. The filing leaves unpaid farmers in Iowa, Texas, Minnesota, and Wisconsin racing to verify deliveries, secure documentation, and file claims through their respective indemnity systems.
In Iowa, the Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship confirmed that any unpaid grain delivered before November 17 may qualify for compensation through the Iowa Grain Depositors and Sellers Indemnity Fund, with a strict filing deadline of March 17, 2026. The fund — created during the 1980s Farm Crisis — can cover up to 90 percent of eligible losses. Regulators emphasized that missing the 120-day claim window results in loss of indemnity eligibility.
Texas officials issued a separate alert after receiving reports that producers remain unpaid for recent deliveries. Because Hansen-Mueller is licensed federally, not by TDA, Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller urged grain sellers to immediately verify receipts, confirm payments, and consider filing a UCC-1 with the Texas Secretary of State to protect their interests.
Minnesota producers, who delivered grain to Hansen-Mueller’s Duluth operation, may submit claims through the state’s relatively new grain indemnity fund — now facing its first major test. The fund can subrogate claims through bankruptcy proceedings, but payments are not guaranteed to reach 100 percent. However, Wisconsin producers who delivered to the Superior elevator are not eligible for indemnity because Hansen-Mueller was not licensed under the state’s producer security program.
Looking ahead, multiple state agencies warn that grain title transfer, documentation quality, and timely filing will determine how much affected farmers ultimately recover.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Farmers with unpaid Hansen-Mueller grain should verify delivery records immediately and file indemnity claims promptly, as coverage rules vary widely by state.
Tony St. James, RFD-TV Markets Specialist
FWSSR Communications Director Matt Brockman discusses the event’s competitions, safety preparations, and family-friendly activities during the opening weekend.
From Junior Heifer Shows to Mustang Magic competitions, the 23-day event brings together 4-H and FFA participants, livestock enthusiasts, and families to celebrate North Texas’ rich Western heritage.
January 21, 2026 01:03 PM
·
The Farm Bureau is making an urgent call to Congress for more farm support. Colton Lacina with Farmers National Company joined us to discuss farmland values and how market dynamics for the year ahead reflect stabilization rather than collapse.
January 21, 2026 12:30 PM
·
Analysts say a Supreme Court decision on tariffs could reshape protein markets, strain U.S.-China trade, and force farmers to rethink global demand strategies.
January 21, 2026 12:03 PM
·
From meatpacking settlements to landmark NEPA rulings, Roger McEowen outlines the top legal developments in 2025 that will shape agriculture in the years ahead.
January 20, 2026 03:39 PM
·
Despite rising costs and growing food insecurity, meat demand remained strong in 2025 as higher-income consumers offset cutbacks elsewhere. Economists break down the K-shaped economy, upcoming USDA cattle reports, livestock production outlooks, and renewed debate over beef imports and country-of-origin labeling heading into 2026.
January 20, 2026 02:47 PM
·
From rising trade tensions in Europe to a pending Supreme Court decision on tariffs and shifting demand from China, global trade policy spearheaded by President Donald Trump continues to shape the outlook for U.S. agriculture—adding uncertainty as farmers navigate another volatile year.
January 20, 2026 01:14 PM
·
The Surface Transportation Board rejects the proposed Norfolk Southern–Union Pacific merger, prompting concerns from agricultural shippers about rail consolidation, service reliability, and higher transportation costs.
January 20, 2026 12:25 PM
·
Congressional leaders signal momentum toward expanded, targeted farm aid to help producers manage losses and cash-flow stress in 2026.
January 20, 2026 11:48 AM
·
Livestock strength is carrying the farm economy, while crop margins remain tight and increasingly dependent on risk management and financial discipline.
January 19, 2026 05:00 PM
·
