Ag Industry Trends & Outlooks

Effective with the 2026 crop year, USDA has updated payment limitations and eligibility rules. This change modernizes how benefits are calculated and who qualifies, providing more flexibility for today’s farm operations. 

In this update, we share key 2026 changes to New York’s Farm Employer Overtime Credit, including expanded eligible overtime hours, shifting thresholds, and new certification requirements for all farm employers. We also highlight reminders on payroll adjustments and advance payment options to help farmers stay compliant and prepared for the season ahead.

Filing farm taxes doesn’t have to be confusing. The IRS requires you to report all income unless specifically excluded, and only deduct expenses that are both ordinary—common in farming—and necessary—helpful for your business. Understanding these basics can save you time and stress.

When starting a new business, there are many challenges and considerations. While entity selection and structure may not be at the forefront for an entrepreneur, making an informed decision early can allow the focus to remain on the business operations and enable a smooth initial tax filing. Let’s examine some key structural considerations and tax implications.