As farmers finalize 2026 crop insurance decisions, the significantly reduced farmer-paid premiums for Supplemental Coverage Option (SCO) and Enhanced Coverage Option (ECO) under the OBBBA should be considered.

To help farmers evaluate the benefits and risks of SCO and ECO based on county yield variability, premium subsidies and historical performance, farmdoc completed an analysis of several coverage scenarios alongside traditional policies. The findings suggest these policies can meaningfully enhance risk protection by addressing area-level losses and filling coverage gaps during widespread yield or revenue declines. Read the full article for coverage scenario details.

The results point to SCO and ECO as options worth strong consideration within a producer’s federal crop insurance coverage for 2026. For additional support in evaluating these policies, contact your local ProAg independent crop insurance agent before spring planting.

Paulson, N., G. Schnitkey, H. Monaco and C. Zulauf. “Comparing Crop Insurance Scenarios with SCO and ECO for 2026.” farmdoc daily (16):25, Department of Agricultural and Consumer Economics, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, February 17, 2026.