While planting is wrapping up in many areas, a great deal of farmers still face the possibility of not getting crops in on time for the crop insurance final planting date. Final planting dates vary by area and crop.

The final planting date is the last date that acres can be planted and still receive the full yield or revenue guarantee, according to William Edwards in an Iowa State University’s article . If crops are planted after this date, there is a reduction in the guaranteed insurance coverage.

For farmers who are not able to make the final planting date, there are still a few options available. The late planting period, which starts the day after the final planting date, allows farmers to plant at a reduced value of yield or revenue guarantee. During this time, the reduction is taken every day the crop is planted late.

Another option available is to submit a prevented planting report, which still allows you to plant an approved cover crop if you choose to do so.

“If the second crop is planted before the late planting period, coverage for the second crop can replace the coverage for the first,” said a crop insurance specialist in the AgWeb.com article, Crop insurance: what you need to know right now .

It is extremely important to stay in touch with your crop insurance agent and review your policy. This will help you make the decision that is right for you. If you are unable to plant your crops, you are required to inform your crop insurance agent within three days after the final planting date.

As work on the Farm Bill moves forward, it is important to note that some changes may come, once a Farm Bill is passed. Crop subsidies are expected to change and direct payment programs have been eliminated in both the House and the Senate’s bills. For more information on Farm Bill markups, check out our blog post, Farm Bill moves forward with both Senate and House .