Rural Money: WASDE Report Adjustments Could Lower ARC and PLC Payments for Some Crops

Rising corn and soybean prices may lower expected payments for producers

PARKER, COLORADO (RFD News) — April’s WASDE Report is offering an updated look at marketing year average prices for major crops and what that could mean for Agriculture Risk Cover (ARC) and Price Loss Coverage (PLC) payments later this year.

Farm CPA Paul Neiffer joined Thursday’s Market Day Report to break down how those updated numbers could impact 2025 payments.

“We’re seeing an upward revision in corn and soybean prices,” Neiffer explained. “So the corn payment is now maybe in that $2 billion-$3 billion range. Maybe even a little bit less, and as long as we continue to see an improvement in corn and soybean prices, we’re going to see that estimated ARC and PLC payment for corn and soybeans continue to drop. We’re definitely seeing a drop.”

Neiffer says higher corn prices could significantly reduce PLC payments.

“If we go 25 cents higher, our PLC payment is basically going to be zero. So now, we still have some ARC because there’s going to be pockets in the country where the yields were lower than the normal.”

He says wheat could see stronger payments compared to other crops.

Neiffer also noted that tax season went smoothly overall, with more refunds among typical filers, though it was not particularly strong for farmers.

Related Stories
Jeramy Stephens with National Land Realty explains how the Supreme Court’s tariff ruling and ongoing ‘America First’ trade policy raise new questions about U.S. farmland values and agricultural market stability.
Strong cattle markets are masking ongoing financial stress across crop agriculture.
Purdue University’s Dr. Michael Langemeier discusses the survey’s findings in February and broader signals in the months ahead.
Falling commodity prices and rising costs continue to squeeze farm margins. Kip Jacobs with The Mosaic Company addresses fertilizer market pressures, nutrient use efficiency, and strategies growers can consider to protect their fertilizer investment this season.
Strong land values contrast with mounting credit pressure.
Agriculture Freedom Zones reflect rising concern that data center growth must not strain rural grids or displace productive farmland.

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:

RFD NEWS Correspondent Tammi Arender takes us to Produce Ridge, where we meet Louisiana farmer Charles Holley as he continues a family legacy over 100 years old, and teaches his grandchildren the value of working the land.
Reported results include stronger in-season nitrogen response, average yield gains of more than seven bushels per acre and more than $18 per acre in net return.
With deep agricultural ties, Dr. Carrie Castille, a South Louisiana native, aims to support ULM student success and connect rural communities.
Tennessee students share how the program fosters confidence, connection, and a sense of community
This week in Washington, National FFA members are advocating for the agriculture industry on Capitol Hill for National Ag Day.
Up-and-coming stock show competitor Saylor Soechting makes her Rodeo Austin debut, showcasing teamwork, dedication, and the next generation of livestock show competitors.