Farm Bill Program Choices Explained for the 2026 Crop Year

By Andi Anderson

Farmers will again face important Farm Bill program decisions for the 2026 production year. Producers must choose between Price Loss Coverage and Agricultural Risk Coverage programs, which can affect farm income and risk protection.

To support this decision, Michigan State University Extension is offering free educational webinars as part of its Farm Policy and Risk Management Series.

The webinar sessions are designed to help farmers understand how each program works and which option may best fit their individual farm situation. Two identical sessions will be offered on different dates and times to improve access. These programs will focus on key crops, including corn, soybeans, and wheat, and participants may attend one or both sessions.

During the webinars, MSU Extension experts will explain the main differences between the two Farm Bill programs. Agricultural Risk Coverage at the county level provides payments when farm revenue falls below a guaranteed level.

Price Loss Coverage provides payments when market prices drop below a set reference price. Understanding these differences is essential when choosing the program that best matches a farm’s risk exposure.

Speakers will also share updates related to other Farm Bill topics, including crop insurance and commodity program changes. These updates help farmers stay informed about policies that influence farm planning and financial decisions.

A key feature of the webinars is the use of the MSU Farm Bill Analyzer, a decision support tool updated for the 2026 season. This tool helps farmers compare how different programs may perform under various price and yield scenarios.

During the sessions, presenters will demonstrate how the analyzer can be used to examine possible outcomes and better understand program benefits.

The Farm Policy and Risk Management Series is offered at no cost, but registration is required to participate. These webinars provide a valuable opportunity for farmers to gain clear, practical information before making important Farm Bill decisions.

Overall, the program helps farmers improve their understanding of federal farm programs, manage risk more effectively, and choose coverage options that support stable and informed farm operations for the 2026 crop year.