New York Launches Tariff Relief Support for Farmers

By Blake Jackson

The State of New York has launched the Agricultural Resiliency Against Tariffs Program to support farmers impacted by rising production costs and market losses caused by federal tariff policies. The initiative was announced as part of Governor Kathy Hochul’s 2026 State of the State agenda and aims to strengthen the agricultural sector during challenging economic conditions.

A total of $30 million has been allocated to the program through the Fiscal Year 2026–27 State Budget. Eligible agricultural producers can receive direct payments ranging from $1,000 to $25,000 to help offset financial pressures.

To qualify, farms must have been operating in 2025 and continue to operate today. Eligible applicants must also have active agricultural production within New York State and meet farm income requirements. According to New York State guidelines, at least two-thirds of a farm's federal gross income of over $30,000 must come from agricultural activities.

The program distributes funding through two categories. The first track is designed for cow dairy farms, while the second covers livestock farms, livestock products, and specialty crop producers. Farms that qualify under both categories may apply separately; however, total assistance cannot exceed $25,000 per legal business entity.

Under the dairy track, eligible applicants include producers of cow dairy milk in New York during 2025. Producer dealers who process their own milk may also apply. Meanwhile, the livestock category includes producers of eggs, cattle, sheep, hogs, goats, poultry, natural fiber products, raw cow milk sold directly to consumers, milk from non-bovine animals, and other livestock products.

Specialty crop producers may qualify if their products are listed under the USDA Specialty Crop Block Grant Program.

However, row crops covered under the USDA Farmer Bridge Assistance Program, such as corn, soybeans, barley, and wheat, are not eligible for assistance through this program.

Applicants must complete required forms, provide business and revenue information, submit taxpayer identification documents, and obtain necessary certifications. Certain forms require notarization and verification from qualified financial professionals.

Applications will be accepted from June 29, 2026, through August 11, 2026. All application materials must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. on August 11, 2026. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.

For assistance, farmers can contact the program Help Desk at (800) 554-4501 or email tariffrelief@agriculture.ny.gov.

Photo Credit: usda