What Producers Need to Know:

Who Pays The Beef Checkoff?

All beef, dairy and veal producers. The purchasing party is responsible for remitting the Beef Checkoff. The $1.50-per-head Beef Checkoff is due each time an animal is sold, regardless of its age or purpose. This means feeder cattle and stockers, as well as fed cattle, are subject to the Beef Checkoff. Breeding stock and dairy cows sold into other herds, whether privately or at auction, are also subject to the Beef Checkoff. An animal will probably be "checked-off" more than once during its lifetime. 

Any producer marketing cattle of that producer's own production in the form of beef or beef products to consumers, either directly or through retail or wholesale outlets, or for export purposes, shall remit to the Washington State Beef Commission an assessment on such cattle at the rate of one $1.50 per head.

Is Anyone Exempt from paying the beef checkoff?

No. As of October 1, 1996, as stated in the Beef Promotion and Research Act and Order, anyone selling cattle and calves is required by federal law to remit the Beef Checkoff. Special allowances are made for buyers who resell cattle no more than 10 days after purchasing them. In these cases, a "Certification of Non-Producer Status" form must be filed for each transaction.

How do I remit Checkoff dollars, and when is payment due?

Check with the Washington State Beef Commission at 206-444-2902 to request a private treaty form or ask questions. The WSBC also provides Collection Points with remittance forms used to keep track of Checkoff dollars and cattle transactions. Collection Points include auction markets, packers and brand inspectors. Remittance forms and payments are due by the 15th day of the month following the transaction.