Rural Money: Partial Government Shutdown Puts ARC and PLC Payments in Limbo

Farm CPA Paul Neiffer joins us to provide an updated analysis of projected ARC and PLC payments and potential delays due to the ongoing government shutdown.

PARKER, Colo. (RFD-TV) — With the latest yield projections now in from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), estimates for ARC and PLC payments are being updated — but farmers remain in limbo amid the ongoing federal government shutdown.

Farm CPA Paul Neiffer joined us on Friday’s Market Day Report to break down his updated analysis of projected payments scheduled to be paid next October.

In an interview with RFD-TV News, Neiffer explained how the recent yield numbers could impact the size of those payments and what producers can expect in the months ahead. He also addressed recent changes to ARC calculations, explaining whether those adjustments will be applied to the 2025 payment cycle — and how excluding them could impact farmers’ bottom lines.

Neiffer discussed what these projections mean for growers already facing tight margins this season and emphasized the importance of staying informed despite data delays caused by the government shutdown. Finally, he shared insight into how the lack of updated crop reports could affect upcoming payment estimates and whether farmers should be concerned about further disruptions.

Related Stories
California rewards low-carbon ethanol, not higher blending volumes.
RealAg Radio’s Shaun Haney discusses the DOJ investigation into U.S. beef packers, concerns about cattle pricing, and ongoing trade and animal health issues affecting producers.
Mobile unit supports first responders with equipment and hands-on training
Event focuses on helping communities grow through local business
Strong demand for U.S. beef in Mexico is boosting exports, with buyers seeking both variety meats and high-quality cuts like Prime and Choice ribeye.
As federal policy shifts toward greater tribal sovereignty, farmers and ranchers (and their legal counsel) must prioritize clear, written contracts and stay engaged with state legislative developments and tribal council updates.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

RFD-TV Farm Accounting & Tax expert Roger McEowen discusses crucial legal and tax issues for farmers and ranchers to manage operational risks in this Firm to Farm blog post.
FarmHER Kate Hitchcock joined us on the Market Day Report to discuss the upcoming episode of the show where Kirbe and the crew visit her family’s produce operation in California’s Salinas Valley, which premieres tomorrow, Sept. 24 at 9 PM ET only on RFD-TV.
The FarmHER crew catches up with fifth-generation California sweet baby broccoli producer Kate Hitchcock and her team in the middle of the harvest season in the Salinas Valley.
RFD-TV ag legal expert Roger McEowen examines common issues facing farmers, ranchers, and rural landowners: SAF fuel, R&D credit, drones, and cleaning fencerows.
FarmHER Janet Dennison joins us live on the Market Day Report for an interview before her new episode premiere on Tuesday.
Poultry FarmHER Cynthia Capers joined us Monday on the Market Day Report to discuss her upcoming episode on the new season of FarmHER.