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
Ag leaders say President Donald Trump’s State of the Union is unlikely to spark major agriculture headlines, but ongoing tariff uncertainty and trade policy remain key concerns, as does the debate around glyphosate and the status of the next Farm Bill.
Cash flow management and lender communication are becoming critical survival tools for farmers as tightening margins increase risk and borrowing pressure.
RFD Farm Legal & Tax expert Roger McEowen shares guidance on the 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit, its impact on renewable energy and agriculture, and what producers should know moving forward.
Singer-songwriter and RanchHER Clare Dunn reflects on the importance of National FFA Week, her time in FFA, and her commitment to advocating for agriculture and rural issues.
Brooks York of AgriSompo discusses projected prices and how farmers are adapting their crop insurance strategies as the price discovery period comes to a close.
For the broader agricultural industry, a railroad antitrust case in Kansas could lead to the dismantling of legacy regulatory shields, creating a more fluid, market-driven transportation grid that prioritizes moving crops efficiently over protecting historic rail monopolies.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Nebraska Farm Bureau President Mark McHargue shares the latest on the wildfires, their impact on agriculture, and the challenges farmers are facing as they navigate both natural disasters and economic uncertainty.
Renowned farm broadcaster and friend of RFD-TV, Orion Samuelson, will undoubtedly be remembered for many things, but most of all, his work as a champion of America’s farmers and ranchers will define his legacy.
TYM North America unveiled two new Series 5 tractor models at the National Farm Machinery Show and announced an exciting new partnership for the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series.
American Soybean Association President Scott Metzger discusses his recent testimony before the Senate Ag Committee, key priorities for soy growers, and his outlook for farmers into spring planting.
FFA Program Specialist Ashli Weinrich highlights how the FFA Next Gen Conference helps ag students explore career opportunities and build skills for the future.
Vanessa Wood shares more about Ag Women Connect, the importance of uplifting women in agriculture, and upcoming projects designed to highlight stories across rural America.