The Montana State Hail Insurance Program was created in 1917 to provide basic hail insurance coverage on any crop grown in Montana. The program continues to provide a valuable service to the agricultural producers.

The Program is directed by a five-member Board of Hail Insurance consisting of the department director, the state auditor, and three other members appointed by the Governor. The program is assigned to the department for administrative purposes, and is self supporting through a trust and reserve established with premiums paid by participating producers.

A reserve fund is maintained to provide security for the programs financial responsibilities. The fund is required to be maintained at a level which is actuarially sound based on annual review by an actuarial consultant. This assures that adequate funds are available to pay any losses, even if a catastrophic year should it occur.

The program works closely with private insurance providers in the state since many producers carry both state and private hail insurance. Participation in the State Hail Insurance Program is often considered an adjunct to private hail insurance so that producers have adequate hail loss protection.

The Montana State Hail Insurance Program has a long history of providing a valuable and important service to the producers of Montana. Program staff are dedicated to providing timely, quality service to the producers who are the ultimate owners of this program.

Important Deadlines

• Coverage begins at 12:01 am on the day following the date the policy is issued.
• Last date to purchase State policies is August 15.
• Report losses to State Hail Insurance Program (406) 444-2402 within 2 weeks of hail damage occurrence.
• Last date to submit a loss is October 1st. 

Additional information can be obtained from:

• County Department of Revenue Appraisal and Assessment Offices
• Montana State Hail Insurance Program, see information below