New check-off collection rules aim to streamline interprovincial sales

As of August 1, 2025, changes to Canada’s beef check-off collection rules will come into effect in BC, Alberta and Saskatchewan to bring greater consistency and fairness to how levies are collected across Canada.

Under the new guidelines, the check-off rate applied to a cattle sale will now align with the seller’s home province, regardless of where the sale takes place. This change ensures that beef producers’ contributions continue to support the programs and initiatives of their own province—even when cattle are sold outside of it.

“This is about fairness and alignment,” said Trevor Welch, Chair, Canadian Beef Check-Off Agency. “Producers have been asking for a more consistent system that reflects their home province’s priorities, especially as interprovincial marketing and transport becomes more common. This change delivers on that.”

What’s Changing:

• Effective August 1, 2025, the check-off rate applied at sale will be determined by the province where the seller resides, not the location of the sale.
• This applies to all interprovincial sales, including auction markets, dealers, and direct farm-gate transactions.
• The change affects remittance chains, especially for auction markets, dealers, and processors who will need to adjust how they identify and apply provincial rates.
• The check-off rate for Saskatchewan sellers will be changing to $5.25, up from $4.50.
• The check-off rate for all other provinces will not change on August 1, 2025.