State Hail Insurance Program Enters 106th Year

Helena, MT – For over 100 years, the Montana State Hail Insurance program has provided vital hail coverage to producers in every corner of the state. With planting season right around the corner, the Montana Department of Agriculture is reminding folks to contact the program and get covered.  

“The Montana State Hail Insurance Program was established over 100 years ago at the request of producers to fill coverage gaps in hail insurance. Due to the support of Montana producers, the program remains strong and to this day and is an effective tool to provide crop insurance for hail,” said Director Christy Clark.

Producers can insure crops against hail damage at the maximum coverage rate of $75 per acre for dryland and $114 per acre for irrigated land. Rates charged are a percentage of the insured amount and vary by county. A detailed list of rates by county and crop can be found by visiting the Department’s website. Policies are available for purchase until Aug, 15, 2022. Policies are effective at 12:01 a.m. the day following the date of application.  

Application forms are available online or by calling the State Hail office. Completed forms can be emailed, mailed, faxed, or used as a reference when contacting the State office. Staff is available to process policies, file claims, and help answer any questions producers may have regarding coverage options.  

The Montana State Hail Insurance program was created at the request of producers in 1917 to provide basic hail insurance coverage on any crop grown in Montana. The program is directed by a five-member board consisting of the Department director, state insurance commissioner, and three producers.

The Montana Department of Agriculture’s mission is to serve Montana Agriculture and growing prosperity under the Big Sky. For more information about the Department, please visit agr.mt.gov.

Contact Information: Montana State Hail Insurance Program; P.O. Box 200201, Helena, MT 59620; Email: [email protected]; Toll Free: 1-844-515-1571; Fax: 406-444-9442.