Do I have to be a member to get Farm Bureau insurance?

Do I need to be a Farm Bureau member to buy a policy? Is it hard to be a member, like with USAA?

In many states, yes, joining your local Farm Bureau is part of getting home and auto insurance through them. There is also a membership fee, but dues are pretty affordable, often between $25 and $75 per year, depending on location. That small fee helps fund local programs and gives you access to a variety of member benefits, like discounts on travel, equipment, or everyday purchases.

Joining is simple and open to anyone. Despite the name, you don’t have to be a farmer or own land! Most states let you sign up online or through a local agent. It’s a quick process that usually takes just a few minutes.

Requirements vary by state, since each Farm Bureau insurance company operates independently. In many parts of the Midwest and South (such as Missouri, Kansas, Iowa, and Mississippi), an active membership is required to buy or renew coverage through Farm Bureau Financial Services or Southern Farm Bureau.

Some insurers, however, have relaxed the rule. COUNTRY Financial, which partners with the Illinois Farm Bureau, recently dropped the membership requirement for most non-farm auto and home policies. Customers can still join for the extra perks, but it’s no longer mandatory.

Farm Bureau is usually a solid option for insurance, but if you want help navigating your choices when it comes to other regional companies (or the big names) our agents are happy to walk you through other carriers in your state.