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
RFD-TV Markets Expert Tony St. James breaks down the USDA’s newly unveiled plan to rebuild the US beef herd and the industry’s spectrum of responses to it.
As we continue our Countdown to Convention sponsored by Culver’s, we see how FFA helps students and alums like Kat Walker build skills for life through ag education.
American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) economist Bernt Nelson provides an updated outlook on the current U.S. cattle market.
Farm CPA Paul Neiffer discusses the status of USDA disaster aid, including delays to Stage 2 of the SDRP program, and what farmers should watch for as lawmakers negotiate an end to the government shutdown.
Taryn Fischels, Product Marketing Manager for Precision Upgrades at John Deere, joins us to share a sneak peek of her chat with FarmHER’s Kirbe Schnoor on the Dirt Diaries podcast.
Sen. Roger Marshall explains which types of beef are imported into the United States, how there’s room for new imports, and logical reasons for current high prices.
U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE) discusses the USDA’s new cattle plan, ethanol policy, and the broader challenges ahead for rural America.
Bioethanol continues to gain ground as the bridge fuel connecting agriculture, aviation, and maritime industries in the global shift toward lower-carbon energy.