New York farmers have until 11:59 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 11, to apply for a share of a $30 million state program intended to offset higher costs and market losses tied to federal tariffs.
The Agricultural Resiliency Against Tariffs Program will provide direct payments ranging from $1,000 to $25,000 to eligible dairy, livestock, specialty crop and aquaculture producers, according to Gov. Kathy Hochul's office.
The program has two application tracks: one for cow dairy farms and another for livestock, livestock products, specialty crops and aquaculture. Only complete applications will be considered for payment.
Applicants must derive at least two-thirds of federal gross income above $30,000 from agricultural activities and must produce eligible products in New York. They must submit agricultural sales or milk-production data certified by a qualified financial professional, along with a substitute W-9 form.
Dairy applicants must also authorize the release of records so the state can confirm milk-production figures. The state Department of Agriculture and Markets has posted detailed instructions and a webinar for applicants.
The program was announced in Hochul's 2026 State of the State address and funded in the 2026-27 state budget. State officials said tariffs have raised the cost of imported machinery, agrochemicals, grain, feed and other farm inputs while disrupting export markets.
State Agriculture Commissioner Richard Ball said the application was designed to limit paperwork and urged eligible producers to apply before the deadline. State Sen. Michelle Hinchey also encouraged farm businesses to seek assistance.
FingerLakes1.com is the region’s leading all-digital news publication. The company was founded in 1998 and has been keeping residents informed for more than two decades. Have a lead? Send it to news@fingerlakes1.com.