By Scout Nelson
The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) has released an advisory encouraging producers who previously conducted business with Hansen-Mueller Co. to file claims for unpaid grain.
The company, headquartered in Omaha, Nebraska, and operating in Duluth, Minnesota, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy on November 17, 2025. With this development, producers who have pending payments for grain sold in Minnesota are being urged to submit claims through the MDA.
Minnesota created an indemnity fund in 2023 to protect producers when grain buyers or warehouses face financial failure. This fund helps reduce financial losses for individuals who have not received payment for grain transactions.
To start the claim process, producers must complete a Grain Proof of Claim form. They should include all supporting documents such as scale tickets, purchase receipts, contracts, assembly sheets, and other relevant records. Claims can be submitted by email to grain@state.mn.us or mailed to the MDA office in St. Paul.
Those who hold warehouse receipts for grain in storage must contact the United States Department of Agriculture for next steps. The USDA can be reached at warehousing@usda.gov for guidance regarding stored grain.
The MDA encourages all affected individuals to act promptly, as valid claims may be adjusted depending on the age of the contract. Once submitted, each claim will be reviewed carefully. The MDA uses internal documents, inspector reports, and all provided paperwork to ensure accuracy and prevent fraud, ensuring that only valid claims receive payment.
Any questions regarding the grain claim process can be directed to MDA representatives. Assistance is available at 651-201-6011 or christine.mader@state.mn.us, and 651-201-6076 or nicholas.milanowski@state.mn.us.
These advisory highlights the importance of Minnesota’s indemnity fund, which serves as a financial safeguard. Through this program, the state aims to support producers facing unexpected risks when companies become insolvent and are unable to fulfill payments.
Photo Credit:minnesota-department-of-agriculture
Categories: Minnesota, Business, Crops, Government & Policy