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
Technology returns depend on management, not just adoption.
The sugar policy debate affects prices, trade, and farm stability.
Organizers say the event helps bridge the gap between producers and consumers
Roger McEowen discusses how long-term healthcare costs for elderly Americans are reshaping estate-planning decisions for farm families and what producers should consider moving forward.
Farmer Jeffry Mitchell with the Mississippi Farm Bureau joins us for a spring planting update from the southeast region as drought, input costs, and fertilizer access complicate crop progress.
Milestone will be celebrated at the 100th State FFA Convention this summer

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

F-10 Wound Spray can now be used for livestock and other animals as officials monitor the ongoing New World Screwworm outbreak in Mexico.
China’s stricter inspection rules prompt Cargill to pause soybean exports from Brazil, briefly lifting U.S. soybean prices as traders anticipate potential shifts in global trade, as export demand remains supportive across all major U.S. commodities.
Suderman joins Tony St. James in the RFD Studios to discuss how geopolitical tensions are triggering global transport disruptions, new inflation pressures, and other challenges for agriculture to navigate.
Severe drought in South Texas is forcing ranchers to consider cattle sell-offs as feed and water supplies dwindle, threatening herd health and livestock operations.
RealAg Radio’s Shaun Haney shares insights from new Real Agri-Studies research surrounding the relationship between farmers and their lenders and what it reveals about the current farm economy.
Farm Bureau economist Dr. Faith Parum explains how geopolitical dynamics in the Middle East could further tighten fertilizer movement, increase fuel costs, and complicate planting decisions for U.S. farmers this spring.