Key Takeaways
- Agricultural Resiliency Against Tariffs Program offers eligible New York agricultural producers up to $25,000 per legal business entity to offset 2025 tariff-related financial impacts.
- Eligibility requires active farming, qualifying farm income and financial certification. Apply by Aug. 11, 2026 and gather tax and production records early.
- Award recipients should evaluate income tax, cash flow and year-end tax planning. Early review also supports future grant eligibility and financial planning.
Farming has always been an exercise in adapting. Whether it’s changing weather patterns, fluctuating commodity prices or rising production costs, New York producers have learned to adjust to whatever the season brings.
Over the past few years, another challenge has been added to that list. Changes in federal trade policy and the resulting tariffs have affected markets and increased costs for many agricultural operations across the state. To help offset some of those impacts, New York State has established the Agricultural Resiliency Against Tariffs Program, providing financial assistance – limited to $25,000 per legal business entity – to eligible agricultural producers affected during 2025.
While the program will not solve every challenge facing farms today, it may help eligible producers recover a portion of the financial pressures their operations have experienced. For farms focused on preserving working capital and maintaining healthy cash flow, it is well worth determining whether they qualify. Applications are due August 11, 2026, so producers should begin reviewing eligibility and gathering the required financial records now.
Eligibility
According to the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets, eligible applicants must have generally been actively farming during 2025, continue to operate today, produce eligible agricultural commodities in New York State and satisfy the program’s farm income requirements.
One requirement deserving particular attention is the income qualification. At least two-thirds of an applicant’s federal gross income exceeding $30,000 must be derived from qualifying agricultural activities as defined under New York State Tax Law. As part of the application process, this requirement must be certified by a qualified financial professional. Producers considering an application should begin gathering financial records well before the filing deadline to allow sufficient time for that review.
Understanding the Two Program Tracks
The program provides assistance through two funding tracks:
- Track 1 is available to eligible cow dairy farms and bases payments on qualifying milk production during 2025.
- Track 2 is designed for producers of livestock, livestock products, specialty crops and aquaculture.
Diversified farms that qualify under both categories may submit separate applications for each track; however, total assistance is limited to $25,000 per legal business entity.
Preparing for the August 11, 2026 Deadline
Applications must be submitted by August 11, 2026. Like many state assistance programs, assembling the necessary documentation often takes longer than expected. Depending on the operation, applicants may need production records, revenue information, tax documentation and other supporting schedules. Beginning the process early provides time to resolve questions, obtain the required financial certification and complete the application before seasonal demands become the priority.
Applicants receiving an award should consider the potential federal and state income tax and estimated tax implications as part of their overall planning.
The Bottom Line
Too often, producers assume they won’t qualify for a grant or relief program and move on before anyone has a chance to review the numbers. By the time they discover they were eligible, the application period has closed and the opportunity has passed.
Even if you’re unsure whether your farm qualifies, don’t assume you’re ineligible. Several program requirements rely on financial information that should be reviewed before eligibility can be determined. Starting the conversation early can prevent a last-minute scramble as the application deadline approaches.
This is also a good opportunity to review cash flow projections, borrowing needs, equipment purchases, year-end tax planning opportunities and the recordkeeping practices needed for future grants or relief programs. A thoughtful review today often uncovers planning opportunities that extend well beyond this program.
Contact Us
Whether your operation is a family dairy, produce farm, livestock business or diversified agricultural enterprise, we’re here to help you make informed financial decisions that support the future of your farm.
Because the certification requires a review of supporting financial records, please contact the partner in charge of your account or the author before the deadline so there is adequate time to evaluate eligibility and complete the certification.
Ralph (RJ) Martucci
Partner
rmartucci@pkfod.com