Rural Money: Business Planning for Farmers in Uncertain Times

Farm CPA Paul Neiffer shares his perspective on the uncertain outlook of federal farm relief and the Farm Bill, which may not materialize until the government shutdown ends.

PARKER, Colo. (RFD-TV) — As the government shutdown continues, a long-anticipated aid package for farmers is now on hold — delaying relief for producers already facing tight margins. The shutdown has also paused USDA reporting, fueling speculation about what this means for the future of the Farm Bill.

Farm CPA Paul Neiffer joined us on Thursday’s Market Day Report to share his perspective on the uncertain outlook for federal relief, noting that many in the industry expect progress to stall until the shutdown ends.

In his interview with RFD-TV News, Neiffer also weighed in on the status of renewable energy credits, many of which have expired or are set to expire soon. However, he explained that the solar tax credit still offers valuable opportunities for farmers over the next few years.

He also outlined the value of the credit and clarified how it can work alongside a REAP grant, helping producers offset installation costs and invest in long-term energy savings.

Neiffer emphasized that while the current environment poses financial challenges, thoughtful business planning and awareness of available programs can help farmers stay resilient until federal support resumes.

Related Stories
Federal aid helps, but producers will bear most of the losses. Balance sheets may look stable, but margins remain fragile without policy support.
RFD NEWS Markets Specialist Tony St. James reviews the USDA’s Farms and Land in Farms 2025 Summary.
Biofuel and corn producers await proposal as Renewable Fuels Association pushes for expanded ethanol access.
Strong corn exports support prices while soybeans lag yearly pace. However, large carryover stocks limit upside despite solid yields.
Lori Stevermer with the National Pork Producers Council reacts to the USDA’s speedline proposal, the new Farm Bill’s fix for California’s Prop-12, and other policy developments impacting the pork industry.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

RealAg Radio host Shaun Haney discusses the latest developments in the Supreme Court, trade tariffs, and the future of the USMCA under President Donald Trump.
The American Farm Bureau Federation’s 2026 agenda centers on labor stability, biosecurity, and economic resilience for family farms. Expanded DMC coverage improves risk protection for dairy operations facing tighter margins.
Alex Templeton works alongside her dad, sharing her life through social media and her blog Ag Talk with Alex.
Secretary Rollins also met with specialty crop producers at a local strawberry farm to discuss workforce needs and the Trump Administration’s recent wins related to significantly cutting the cost of H-2A labor for California farmers.
Brent Graves, auctioneer and mentor, shares his journey supporting youth in agriculture, livestock competitions, and how he is turning junior livestock auctions into a classroom for youth in agriculture.
China’s beef policy risk stems from domestic volatility, making export demand inherently unstable. Jake Charleston with Specialty Risk Insurance offers his perspective on cattle markets, risk management, and producer sentiment.