Commodity checkoff fees are automatically deducted when producers sell certain types of crops or livestock, but producers who grow or raise these commodities can request a refund of these fees.
The following commodities are eligible for checkoff refunds:
- Corn
- Dry Edible Beans
- Potatoes grown in Area Two
- Sunflowers
- Turkeys
For all organic checkoff exemptions and questions, go to the USDA-Agricultural Marketing Service Organic Exemption Request page.
Applying for a Refund
If you grow or raise these commodities, you can request a refund for checkoff fees from us within 60 days of when the fees were deducted (usually the settlement date or the date the producer is paid by the purchaser). You are limited to 12 refund applications per year.
To apply by mail, follow these steps:
- Complete a checkoff refund application (PDF). You can either:
- print the form and fill it out by hand. Sign, date, and make three copies of it,
OR - complete the form on your computer. Print, sign, and date three copies.
- print the form and fill it out by hand. Sign, date, and make three copies of it,
- Include proof of checkoff assessment (settlement statements and/or check stubs). Your proof of checkoff must show:
- Name of producer
- Which commodity was sold (corn, dry beans, etc.)
- Purchaser name, town, and state
- Date the checkoff fee was deducted
- Amount of deduction
NOTE: We need only one copy (or the originals) of each proof of checkoff document. We will return them with your refund check.
- Save a copy of the application for your files.
- Mail two copies of your completed application and one copy of your proof of checkoff document(s) to:
Minnesota Department of Agriculture
Promotion Councils
625 Robert Street North
Saint Paul, MN 55155-2538
- Your application must be postmarked within 60 days of when the fees were deducted, or we will deny your refund request.
