Mar. 16/26 News Print Page

As AgriStability continues to evolve, farmers across Alberta now have more flexible, accessible options to protect their operations from income uncertainty.

Recent program enhancements not only strengthen coverage but also make it simpler than ever for producers — large and small — to participate.

At a Glance

Easier than ever to participate: only three years of historical data required; optional tax-based reference margin available.

Participants can request a coverage notice between May 1 and December 31 to estimate their support level for the year, adding clarity and predictability to the program.

New participants now need only three years of historical data instead of five, and they can opt for an optional reference margin (ORM) based on tax-reported income, eliminating the need for inventory or accrual records. Existing participants can also opt for an optional reference margin; however, they must remain with the optional reference margin calculation for a minimum of four program years.

The flexibility is helpful for smaller farms seeking simplicity, while larger operations may prefer the default accrual adjusted reference margin (AARM) for greater financial precision.

Optional reference margin (ORM) uses tax-based reporting to set the historical average and no historical accrual or inventory information required. Accrual adjusted reference margin (AARM) requires accrual and inventory details each year, increases the precision of the calculation, and is the program’s default method

 

“Producers should take some time to choose the reporting option that best fits their operation,” commented Daniel Graham, AFSC AgriStability and Pricing manager.  “The accrual adjusted reference margin offers greater precision, while the optional reference margin provides a simpler approach—giving both new and returning participants an easy way to determine whether AgriStability meets their needs.”

Participants can request a coverage notice between May 1 and December 31 to estimate their support level for the year. This tool helps farmers decide whether to apply for benefits, adding clarity and predictability to the program.

It’s time to take another look at AgriStability and see if it’s the right fit for your farming operation.

To learn more, please contact an insurance relationship manager at your preferred AFSC branch office, call the Client Care Centre at 1.877.899.2372 or email info@afsc.ca

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