Frequently Asked Questions

Where do I mail my remittance form?

Iowa Beef Industry Council
PO Box 451
Ames, IA 50010-0451

What can our Checkoff do?

The beef checkoff doesn't own cattle, packing plants or retail outlets. It can't control prices or singlehandedly turn around a bad market. The Beef Checkoff Program was designed to stimulate consumers to buy more beef. This is accomplished through a combination of initiatives including consumer advertising, research, public relations, education and new product development. 

Where are Checkoff Dollars Invested?

The Beef Checkoff Program invests in programs designed to enhance beef demand. 
Promotion - Encompasses advertising, new product development and promotions partnerships with restaurants and supermarkets to stimulate sales of beef in the marketplace.
Research - Information and promotion projects are developed based on consumer, nutrition, beef safety and product enhancement research.
Consumer Information - Works to enhance beef's image through nutritional data and other positive messages targeted to news media, food editors, teachers, dietitians, physicians and other groups.
Industry Information - Promotes an understanding of the beef industry and maintains a positive marketing climate by helping to provide factual information concerning the beef industry.
Foreign Marketing - Seeks to identify and develop international markets for U.S. beef and beef variety meats.
Producer Communications - Aims to inform beef producers about how checkoff dollars are being invested and communicates program results. The Beef Checkoff Program acts as a catalyst to promote beef for change.

What can’t our checkoff do?

The law does not allow checkoff funds to be used for lobbying activities to influence public policy or government affairs.

Can I request a refund for Checkoff dollars?

The Iowa State Beef Checkoff Program is refundable. A producer who has paid an assessment to the mandatory Iowa State Beef Checkoff may obtain a refund of the amount paid by filing an application for refund with the Iowa Beef Industry Council within 90 days after the sale of cattle. The application must be in writing, on a form provided by the Iowa Beef Industry Council for that purpose, and accompanied by proof of payment of the assessment. The current National Beef Checkoff Program is not refundable. Contact us for the form

Can I Redirect My National Checkoff Investment?

You may redirect your full $1-per-head National Checkoff investment to the Cattlemen's Beef Board. This Producer Redirection of Checkoff Assessment Form must be postmarked by the 15th of the month following the month the cattle were sold and mailed to the Iowa Beef Industry Council.

Where can I get more information about the Beef Checkoff Program?

For more information about the Beef Checkoff, please call 515-296-2305 or email IBIC.