Rural Money: New Rule Lets Farm Families Spread Out Taxes on Farmland Sales

Paul Neiffer outlines the requirements and when the change takes effect

KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI (RFD News) — Farmers selling farmland may now be able to spread out their tax payments over several years under a new provision. However, there are a few requirements.

Farm CPA Paul Neiffer says the land must have been actively farmed for at least 10 years before it is sold. It also has to stay in farming for 10 years after the sale, with that agreement recorded with the property.

He says the full income from the sale is still reported right away, but the taxes don’t all have to be paid at once.

Instead, 25 percent of the tax is due April 15 after the sale, with the rest paid over the next three years.

There’s also some confusion around timing.

While the rule applies to sales after July 4, 2025, it applies only to tax years that begin after that date. For most farmers, that means it won’t apply until the 2026 tax year.

Neiffer says the benefit depends on interest rates, but spreading out payments could help lower the overall tax burden.

Related Stories
High input costs and persistant drought is pushing Midwest growers to rethink planting decisions.
RFD News correspondent Frank McCaffrey spoke with the Texas Shrimp Association at the Port of Brownsville about the future of the USDA’s new Office of Seafood.
Food inflation is still building in 2026, with beef leading pressure while eggs and dairy offer some relief.
Diesel has eased for now, but the larger 2026 energy outlook still points to elevated fuel costs.
Discussions focused on rising costs and the future of farm policy.
U.S. Soybean Export Council CEO Jim Sutter joins us to discuss the impact of new trade development funding for U.S. soy.

Knoxville native Neal Burnette-Irwin is a graduate from MTSU where he majored in Journalism and Entertainment Studies. He works as a digital content producer with RFD News and is represented by multiple talent agencies in Nashville and Chicago.


LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Some producers remain optimistic about farmland markets while others point to growing pressure on margins and income.
The campaign helps support students attending National FFA Convention while funding local chapters and scholarship opportunities.
Trey Myers and T. Wayne Williams discuss lessons learned on the road and what continues inspiring students across the country.
USDA says weather damage in key Robusta-growing regions is tightening supplies and lowering export expectations.
Industry leaders say restored access is a major step forward, though exports remain well below previous levels.
Scientists say studying how cattle digest seaweed could help shape future livestock nutrition and sustainability efforts.