Rural Money: January’s WASDE Report Potential Impact ARC and PLC Payments

Farm CPA Paul Neiffer discusses how January’s WASDE report could impact ARC and PLC payments and updates on disaster relief programs as farmers navigate a challenging market environment.

PARKER, Colo. (RFD NEWS) — Markets opened the week with the first WASDE report of the year, delivering a bearish outlook for both corn and soybeans. The updated supply and demand estimates have raised new questions for producers about how lower prices could impact projected ARC and PLC payments.

Farm CPA Paul Neiffer joined RFD NEWS on Friday to break down what the latest report could mean for farmers as they look ahead.

In his interview with RFD NEWS, Neiffer walked through what he is expecting for ARC and PLC payments under the current price outlook, explaining how the latest WASDE figures factor into payment calculations. He outlined how declining commodity prices could influence payment levels and what producers should be watching as the marketing year continues.

Neiffer also addressed what happens if prices fall further, detailing how additional downside risk could affect both ARC and PLC outcomes and the financial planning decisions farmers may need to consider.

The conversation also included an update on Supplemental Disaster Relief Program (SDRP) payments, with Neiffer providing insight into the status of Stage 2 payments and what producers should know as they wait for further guidance.

Related Stories
AFBF economist Faith Parum breaks down the potential impact of the proposed policy change to allow year-round sales of E15 biofuel.
Learn the conditions farmers must meet to qualify for this new three-year tax deferral on farmland sales, how much it could save, and other details to consider.
Bass Pro Anglers Jacob Wall and Bobby Lane will fish together in the Summit Cup after facing elimination in the Challenge Cup Knockout Round.
RFD-TV farm legal expert Roger McEowen digs into the details on how to make your rural property dreams a reality — and avoid a living nightmare.
The government reopens after 43 days. USDA resumes key reports, weighs farm aid, and watches China’s next move on U.S. soybean purchases.
Jeramy Stephens with National Land Realty shares tips for fall and winter to guide landowners and farmers.

Marion is a digital content manager for RFD News and FarmHER + RanchHER. She started working for Rural Media Group in May 2022, bringing a decade of digital experience in broadcast media and some cooking experience to the team.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Leadership development and bipartisan engagement remain central to advancing agriculture’s priorities in 2026.
AFBF Economist Faith Parum provides analysis and perspective on the Farmer Bridge Assistance Program—what commodity growers should know and potential remedies for producers facing crop losses where that aid falls short.
In a post to social media, Trump said Venezuela will buy American agriculture products and will use the money from oil sales to make it happen.
Federal nutrition policy is signaling a stronger demand for whole foods produced by U.S. farmers and ranchers. Consumer-facing guidance favors animal protein, but institutional demand may change little under existing saturated fat limits.
Farmer Bridge payments are being used primarily to reduce debt and protect cash flow, not drive new spending. Curt Blades with the Association of Equipment Manufacturers joined us to provide insight into the ag equipment market and the factors influencing sales.
Wed, 1/21/26 – 7:30 PM ET