What is the soybean checkoff?
Like producers of other commodities, such as beef, dairy and eggs, soybean farmers collectively invest a portion of their end-of-season profits to fund research and promotion efforts. This collective investment is called a checkoff.

How does the soybean checkoff work?
The soybean checkoff is supported entirely by soybean farmers with individual contributions of 0.5 percent of the market price per bushel sold each season. The efforts of the checkoff are directed by the United Soybean Board, composed of 68 volunteer farmer-leaders nominated by their state-level checkoff organizations, called Qualified State Soybean Boards (QSSBs). The nominees are appointed by the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture to the Board.

How does the soybean checkoff support individual farmers?
Success for soybean farmers in today's market takes more than just a good harvest. Increasing demand for soybeans is an essential part of the equation. The soybean checkoff helps facilitate market growth and creation by funding and directing marketing, research and commercialization programs. By building demand both at home and abroad, the soybean checkoff helps ensure a strong and profitable future for U.S. soybean farmers.

What's the difference between the United Soybean Board and the American Soybean Association?
The United Soybean Board and the American Soybean Association are two distinct groups that represent U.S. soybean farmers in different ways. USB and ASA often work together on projects or major initiatives, such as the U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC). USSEC was formed as a partnership of the two organizations to promote U.S. soy in international markets.