What is the Beef CHeckoff?
The Beef Checkoff Program was established as part of the 1985 Farm Bill. The checkoff assesses $1 per head on the sale of live domestic and imported cattle, in addition to a comparable assessment on imported beef and beef products. States may retain up to 50 cents on the dollar and forward the other 50 cents per head to the Cattlemen's Beef Promotion and Research Board, which administers the national checkoff program, subject to USDA approval.
How Does it Work?
Under the Beef Promotion and Research Act and Order, a dollar is to be assessed for each bovine animal sold. As a Pennsylvania cattle producer, when selling cattle, directly to consumers, to other producers or other various paths, both you and the buyer are responsible for assuring that the $1 per head checkoff is remitted. This includes all bovine animals – bulls, cows, heifers, steers, and calves—regardless of age, sex, breed or purpose of sale. This applies to beef and dairy cattle as well as veal! The Beef Checkoff Program also includes all sales where no auction market or other collection point is involved, such as a private sale. The $1 is deducted from the selling price of the animal. In private treaty sales it is generally the seller who deducts and remits the $1. Thanks for your continued support of the Beef Checkoff Program and the beef industry!
The Beef Checkoff Explained
Key Questions about the Beef Checkoff
Who does the Beef Checkoff Support?
Checkoff Remittance
As cattle moved through the production cycle from birth to beef, the Beef Checkoff Assessment is due each time cattle are sold. This is true for all cattle regardless of the breed or age of cattle sold. The checkoff assessment is due whether cattle are sold through a livestock market, an order buyer, or sold directly to another producer. The assessment is also due when cattle are harvested. See our PA Remittance Form to submit your assessment today.
ROI
What is your ROI for your Beef Checkoff Dollar in Pennsylvania? Visit this page to find a breakdown on how your dollar is spent in Pennsylvania. You can also explore some articles on recent activities completed by Pennsylvania Beef Council on your behalf!
Understanding the beef Checkoff Videos
View this series of videos that takes a look into various aspects of the Beef Checkoff to give you a more in depth knowledge of the Beef Checkoff Program.