Entering a new crop year is both exciting and stressful. There is opportunity for a fresh start and hopefulness for good weather, fair planting conditions, and a bit of luck. However, we know that these things are luxuries, and each year brings new challenges and obstacles that growers will inevitably face. Your crop insurance policy helps mitigate risk on your farm. Making sure it is set up correctly – with the optimal coverage levels and most helpful options – is crucial to the livelihood of your operation.
As we head into the 2021 renewal season, here are a few useful tips for preparing yourself and, consequently, helping your insurance specialist.
Before your meeting with your AgCountry specialist, ask yourself these questions:
- Am I happy with the way my crops were covered last year?
- Did last year’s premium reflect my desired amount of coverage?
- Was I close to having a claim? Would a higher (or lower) coverage level suit me better?
- Did my chosen unit structure negatively affect how my claims were paid?
Start thinking about the changes you would like to make. Prepare questions for your specialist!
What to bring with you/share with us
- Planting intentions (We won’t hold you to them!)
- Entity changes – ex. individual, joint venture, partnership, LLC
- Administrative changes – phone number, address, marital status, etc.
- Added land/reduced land
- Share changes/transition plans
- New crop, practice or type
- A general idea of changes to be made
Bring your specialist up to speed on your operation. What’s new?
How preparation helps your specialist
Planting intentions help your specialist create more accurate quotes to present during your renewal meeting. We are then able to break down which options and coverage levels would work best on your policy. Your specialist can also help ensure that you will meet the requirements for your chosen unit structure. If Prevent Plant is a typical concern for you, having planting intentions can be crucial when planning which crops will go on your most vulnerable ground. Depending on your unit structure, your specialist can assist with making planting decisions in order to maximize any potential Prevent Plant payments.
If land is being added to your operation, we have a handful of options to get you the best actual production history (APH) on your new ground. Your specialist needs to be aware of major changes like this to ensure optimal coverage during times of transition.
Making sure we know what’s going on with your operation helps us maintain our relationships with our valued growers. By keeping us informed, we are better able to serve you!
COVID-19 Disclaimer
You do not have to visit the office to complete your MPCI renewal. We are more than willing to accommodate requests from our customers. We have the ability to facilitate virtual meetings or complete your renewal over the phone.
All AgCountry offices are currently open. We are following all recommended federal & local guidelines.
Wishing you all the best in the new year! We look forward to serving you in 2021.