As spring planting approaches, it's essential to understand key crop insurance dates and how they impact your coverage. Here’s a concise overview of important deadlines and guidelines to help you prepare.

Planting Dates:

• Corn: The earliest planting date is April 10th across Iowa.

• Soybeans: The earliest planting date is April 10th in southern counties and April 15th in the rest of the state. Planting before these dates will disqualify crops from replanting payments.

Figure 1: Iowa Map of Soybean Planting Dates; Source: Iowa State University Ag Decision Maker

Sales Closing Date:

• March 15th was the last day to apply for or make changes to crop insurance policies for the year. This was also the final day to cancel policies from the previous year.

Final Planting Dates:

• Corn: The final planting date is May 31st. After this date, the guarantee decreases by 1% per day, with full coverage ending on June 25th.

• Soybeans: The final planting date is June 15th, with similar reductions to coverage for delays until July 10th.

Replanting:

• Corn: Can be replanted until June 10th without penalty.

• Soybeans: Can be replanted until June 25th without penalty.

Prevented Planting:

• If you’re unable to plant due to weather or other factors, you may qualify for prevented planting coverage, except if a substitute crop is planted for harvest.

Acreage Reporting & Premiums:

• July 15th: Report the acreage planted for both corn and soybeans.

• August 15th: Premium bills will be sent out. Payments are due within 30 days, with interest accruing at 1.25% per month on any unpaid premiums after September 15th.

Staying on top of key crop insurance dates ensures Iowa farmers have the right coverage for the upcoming season. Peoples Company’s team of land managers specializes in comprehensive risk management, offering a proven six-step process to help landowners maximize their farm’s potential. For more information on optimizing farm opportunities through land management or to consult about crop insurance, visit PeoplesCompany.com or call 515-222-1347 to speak with a Land Manager today.

Table 1: Important Crop Insurance Dates; Source: Iowa State University Ag Decision Maker
Source: Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, Ag Decision Maker