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Crop insurance must be purchased each growing season by the deadlines established by the USDA. This date typically is March 15th for the upper Midwest region unless it is a fall seeded crop (Wheat, Rye, Fall Seeded Forage Seeding) then it is Sept 30th. Pasture Rangeland & Forage (PRF) sales closing deadline is Dec. 1st.

First, contact your insurance agent. The agent will be able to explain any policy limitations and the type of coverage purchased. The agent will then contact an adjuster who will work with the farmer to determine the next steps.

Just like claims with other kinds of insurance, it is important to keep documentation of your loss. Make sure to keep pictures and samples that will help establish the loss. Do not destroy the crops or re-plant until you have talked with the adjuster and received confirmation in writing that it is all right to do so.

Corn, soybean, and wheat producers who purchase crop insurance by the sales closing date have the option to elect the Trend-Adjusted APH Option (TA-APH). This program adjusts eligible yields, in qualifying APH databases, to reflect long term increases in the county’s historical yield. Check with your agent to see if you qualify and determine your county yield factor.