Special to Arkansas Agriculture

Having the proper farm equipment in good working condition can make or break any farm operation. With tight harvesting windows and always unpredictable weather conditions, farmers who have the right equipment when they need it can help protect crop quality and prevent costly yield losses. 

Farmers who face downtime or expensive repair costs could greatly benefit from upgrading to newer equipment. From higher harvest efficiency, to better fuel economy, technological advances found in newer farm equipment can provide immediate benefits to all farmers. 

With more equipment dealers entering the market, farmers have more options to purchase new equipment than ever before. Combine this fact with a strong used equipment market, farmers can find high quality, low-hour used equipment at much more affordable prices. 

Farmers can also visit a dealer or use the Internet to find quality used farm equipment quickly. With some sites, you can even search for machines by model, year, specification, geographical region or any combination of these four categories.  These sites can provide farmers with more options for their operations, without any major downtime.

Another major benefit to upgrading to newer farm equipment is the potential tax benefits specifically designed for farmers. Purchasing new farm equipment could provide both depreciation and deduction opportunities for an operation. Farmers should discuss any equipment-based tax opportunities with their financial advisors to determine the potential benefit to their operations.

Finally, farmers can benefit from special farm equipment financing that could help to save on financing over the course of a note. Farm Bureau Bank features a farm equipment lending program designed to help farmers finance the equipment that they need. With competitive rates, flexible terms, and various repayment plans, Farm Bureau Bank is the easy way to get the equipment needed to keep a farm operation running smoothly.  With their easy online application, you can even apply from the convenience of your own home.

For more information about equipment loans from Farm Bureau Bank, visit your local Farm Bureau office or agent, call them at 1-800-492-3276 or visit them online at www.farmbureaubank.com.