CHS (CHSCP) 10-K 4 Nov 21 2021 FY Annual report Financial data

Cover Page

Cover Page - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2021	Nov. 04, 2021
Entity Information [Line Items]
Document Type	10-K
Document Annual Report	true
Document Period End Date	Aug. 31, 2021
Document Transition Report	false
Entity File Number	001-36079
Entity Registrant Name	CHS Inc.
Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code	MN
Entity Tax Identification Number	41-0231510
Entity Address, City or Town	Inver Grove Heights
Entity Address, State or Province	MN
Entity Address, Postal Zip Code	55077
City Area Code	651
Local Phone Number	355-6000
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	No
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Interactive Data Current	Yes
Entity Filer Category	Non-accelerated Filer
Entity Small Business	false
Entity Emerging Growth Company	false
Entity Shell Company	false
Entity Public Float	$ 0
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		0
Entity Central Index Key	0000823277
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--08-31
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2021
Document Fiscal Period Focus	FY
Amendment Flag	false
Entity Address, Address Line One	5500 Cenex Drive
8% Preferred Stock [Member]
Entity Information [Line Items]
Title of 12(b) Security	8% Cumulative Redeemable Preferred Stock
Trading Symbol	CHSCP
Security Exchange Name	NASDAQ
Class B, Series 1 Preferred Stock [Member]
Entity Information [Line Items]
Title of 12(b) Security	Class B Cumulative Redeemable Preferred Stock, Series 1
Trading Symbol	CHSCO
Security Exchange Name	NASDAQ
Class B, Series 2 Preferred Stock [Member]
Entity Information [Line Items]
Title of 12(b) Security	Class B Reset Rate Cumulative Redeemable Preferred Stock, Series 2
Trading Symbol	CHSCN
Security Exchange Name	NASDAQ
Class B, Series 3 Preferred Stock [Member]
Entity Information [Line Items]
Title of 12(b) Security	Class B Reset Rate Cumulative Redeemable Preferred Stock, Series 3
Trading Symbol	CHSCM
Security Exchange Name	NASDAQ
Class B, Series 4 Preferred Stock [Member]
Entity Information [Line Items]
Title of 12(b) Security	Class B Cumulative Redeemable Preferred Stock, Series 4
Trading Symbol	CHSCL
Security Exchange Name	NASDAQ

Consolidated Balance Sheets

Consolidated Balance Sheets - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Aug. 31, 2021	Aug. 31, 2020
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 413,159	$ 140,874
Receivables	2,860,884	2,366,047
Inventories	3,334,675	2,742,138
Other current assets	1,390,233	1,017,488
Total current assets	7,998,951	6,266,547
Investments	3,669,111	3,630,033
Property, plant and equipment	4,810,005	4,957,938
Other assets	1,098,208	1,139,429
Total assets	17,576,275	15,993,947
Current liabilities:
Notes payable	1,740,859	1,575,491
Current portion of long-term debt	38,450	189,287
Accounts payable	2,616,052	1,724,516
Accrued expenses	622,723	501,904
Other Liabilities, Current	1,307,929	928,843
Liabilities, Current	6,326,013	4,920,041
Long-term debt	1,579,911	1,601,836
Other liabilities	653,025	652,897
Commitments and contingencies (Note 17)
Equities:
Preferred stock	2,264,038	2,264,038
Equity certificates	5,247,238	5,161,610
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	(216,391)	(233,924)
Capital reserves	1,713,976	1,618,147
Total CHS Inc. equities	9,008,861	8,809,871
Noncontrolling interests	8,465	9,302
Total equities	9,017,326	8,819,173
Total liabilities and equities	$ 17,576,275	$ 15,993,947

Consolidated Statements of Oper

Consolidated Statements of Operations - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2021	Aug. 31, 2020	Aug. 31, 2019
Income Statement [Abstract]
Revenues	$ 38,448,033	$ 28,406,365	$ 31,900,453
Cost of goods sold	37,496,634	27,424,558	30,516,120
Gross profit	951,399	981,807	1,384,333
Marketing, general and administrative expenses	745,602	704,542	724,731
Operating earnings (loss)	205,797	277,265	659,602
Interest expense	104,565	116,977	167,065
Other income	(59,559)	(39,875)	(86,309)
Equity income from investments	(354,529)	(186,715)	(236,755)
Income before income taxes	515,320	386,878	815,601
Income tax benefit	(38,249)	(36,731)	(12,456)
Net income	553,569	423,609	828,057
Net (loss) income attributable to noncontrolling interests	(383)	1,170	(1,823)
Earnings attributable to CHS Inc.	$ 553,952	$ 422,439	$ 829,880

Consolidated Statements of Comp

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2021	Aug. 31, 2020	Aug. 31, 2019
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income	$ 553,569	$ 423,609	$ 828,057
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:
Pension and other postretirement benefits	18,295	12,798	(32,559)
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Cash Flow Hedge, Gain (Loss), after Reclassification and Tax	(6,062)	(4,411)	20,196
Foreign currency translation adjustment	5,300	(15,378)	(9,949)
Other comprehensive loss, net of tax	17,533	(6,991)	(22,312)
Comprehensive income	571,102	416,618	805,745
Comprehensive (loss) income attributable to noncontrolling interests	(383)	1,170	(1,823)
Comprehensive income attributable to CHS Inc.	$ 571,485	$ 415,448	$ 807,568

Consolidated Statements of Chan

Consolidated Statements of Changes in Equities - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2021	Aug. 31, 2020	Aug. 31, 2019
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Balance	$ 8,819,173	$ 8,617,530	$ 8,165,028
Reversal of prior year patronage and redemption estimates	63,000	180,000	153,941
Cash patronage dividends payable	(30,042)	(90,115)	(75,776)
Redemptions of equities	(79,381)	(96,438)	(85,540)
Preferred stock dividends	(168,668)	(168,668)	(168,668)
Cumulative effect adjustment asc topic 842		25,320
Other, net	(7,858)	(2,074)	2,800
Net income	553,569	423,609	828,057
Other comprehensive loss, net of tax	17,533	(6,991)	(22,312)
Estimated patronage refunds	(50,000)	(30,000)	(90,000)
Estimated equity redemptions	(100,000)	(33,000)	(90,000)
Balance	9,017,326	8,819,173	8,617,530
Capital Equity Certificates
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Balance	3,724,187	3,753,493	3,837,580
Reversal of prior year patronage and redemption estimates	28,000	80,000	78,941
Redemptions of equities	(67,403)	(80,133)	(70,859)
Other, net	(873)	(1,173)	(2,169)
Estimated equity redemptions	(100,000)	(28,000)	(90,000)
Balance	3,583,911	3,724,187	3,753,493
Nonpatronage Equity Certificates
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Balance	28,727	29,074	29,498
Redemptions of equities	(290)	(340)	(409)
Other, net	(6)	(7)	(15)
Balance	28,431	28,727	29,074
Nonqualified Equity Certificates
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Balance	1,408,696	1,206,310	742,378
Reversal of prior year patronage and redemption estimates	(206,970)	(462,398)	(345,330)
Distribution of patronage refunds	214,733	474,407	352,980
Redemptions of equities	(11,688)	(15,965)	(14,272)
Other, net	(165)	(628)	(1,844)
Estimated patronage refunds	230,290	211,970	472,398
Estimated equity redemptions		(5,000)	0
Balance	1,634,896	1,408,696	1,206,310
Preferred Stock
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Balance	2,264,038	2,264,038	2,264,038
Balance	2,264,038	2,264,038	2,264,038
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Balance	(233,924)	(226,933)	(199,915)
Other comprehensive loss, net of tax	17,533	(6,991)	(22,312)
TaxCutsAndJobsActof2017ReclassfromAOCItoRetainedEarningsTaxEffect			(4,706)
Balance	(216,391)	(233,924)	(226,933)
Capital Reserves
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Balance	1,618,147	1,584,158	1,482,003
Reversal of prior year patronage and redemption estimates	241,970	562,398	420,330
Distribution of patronage refunds	(244,775)	(564,522)	(428,756)
Preferred stock dividends	(168,668)	(168,668)	(168,668)
Cumulative effect adjustment asc topic 842		25,320
Other, net	(6,360)	(1,008)	7,061
Net income	553,952	422,439	829,880
TaxCutsAndJobsActof2017ReclassfromAOCItoRetainedEarningsTaxEffect			4,706
Estimated patronage refunds	(280,290)	(241,970)	(562,398)
Balance	1,713,976	1,618,147	1,584,158
Noncontrolling Interests
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Balance	9,302	7,390	9,446
Other, net	(454)	742	(233)
Net income	(383)	1,170	(1,823)
Balance	$ 8,465	$ 9,302	$ 7,390

Consolidated Statement of Cash

Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2021	Aug. 31, 2020	Aug. 31, 2019
Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract]
Total cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash	$ 542,484	$ 216,993	$ 299,675
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income	553,569	423,609	828,057
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities:
DepreciationDepletionAndAmortizationincludingmajormaintenance	535,498	550,251	541,507
Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments, Net of Dividends or Distributions	(40,035)	49,130	12,560
Provision for doubtful accounts	6,692	3,418	57,745
Gain/recovery on sale of business	(19,034)	(1,450)	(3,886)
Inventory, LIFO Reserve, Effect on Income, Net	(35,258)	0	0
Deferred taxes	(11,957)	(32,761)	(13,852)
Other, net	(41,218)	(1,642)	6,094
Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of acquisitions:
Receivables	(568,752)	308,399	(218,192)
Inventories	(549,221)	104,884	284,694
Accounts payable and accrued expenses	1,007,229	(330,949)	(38,229)
Other, net	(79,702)	14,340	(316,567)
Net cash provided by operating activities	757,811	1,087,229	1,139,931
Cash flows from investing activities:
Capital expenditures	(317,794)	(418,359)	(443,216)
Proceeds from disposition of property, plant and equipment	20,742	32,670	53,974
Proceeds from sale of business	81,366	1,139	5,044
Expenditures for major maintenance	(40,922)	(14,496)	(232,094)
CHSCapitalPaymentsForProceedsFromLoansReceivable	132,268	119,591	(10,903)
Financing extended to customers	(1,926)	(6,386)	(12,210)
Payments from customer financing	6,892	35,791	90,193
Business acquisitions, net of cash acquired	0	231	(119,421)
Other investing activities, net	17,702	6,114	7,350
Net cash used in investing activities	(101,672)	(243,705)	(661,283)
Cash flows from financing activities:
Proceeds from notes payable and long-term borrowings	31,765,082	24,343,870	29,071,363
Payments on notes payable, long-term debt and finance lease obligations	(31,806,918)	(24,948,926)	(29,450,339)
Preferred stock dividends paid	(168,668)	(168,668)	(168,668)
Redemptions of equities	(79,381)	(96,438)	(85,540)
Cash patronage dividends paid	(30,042)	(90,115)	(75,776)
Other financing activities, net	(6,658)	29,129	(16,686)
Net cash used in financing activities	(326,585)	(931,148)	(725,646)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents	(4,063)	4,942	2,733
Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Restricted Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease), Including Exchange Rate Effect	325,491	(82,682)	(244,265)
Cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash at beginning of period	140,874	211,179
Cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash at end of period	413,159	140,874	211,179
Supplemental Cash Flow Elements [Abstract]
Interest Paid, Excluding Capitalized Interest, Operating Activities	102,093	119,354	172,259
Income Taxes Paid, Net	(8,842)	6,840	19,918
Capital Expenditures Incurred but Not yet Paid	28,010	14,906	28,478
Lease Obligation Incurred	12,831	11,190	7,351
Other current liabilities	150,000	63,000	180,000
Contribution of Property	$ 0	$ 0	$ 7,353

Investments - Schedule of Equit

Investments - Schedule of Equity Method Investment - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2021	Aug. 31, 2020	Aug. 31, 2019
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Assets, Current	$ 7,998,951	$ 6,266,547
Liabilities, Current	6,326,013	4,920,041
Revenues	38,448,033	28,406,365	$ 31,900,453
Gross Profit	951,399	981,807	1,384,333
Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	553,569	423,609	828,057
Earnings attributable to CHS Inc.	553,952	422,439	829,880
CF Industries Nitrogen
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Assets, Current	850,048	552,127
Assets, Noncurrent	6,248,315	6,564,086
Liabilities, Current	301,174	222,391
Liabilities, Noncurrent	2,454	3,036
Revenues	2,975,983	2,522,827	2,894,795
Gross Profit	866,880	570,901	737,168
Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	809,536	529,462	706,291
Earnings attributable to CHS Inc.	198,439	127,954	160,373
Ventura Foods, LLC
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Assets, Current	810,593	695,911
Assets, Noncurrent	628,516	647,105
Liabilities, Current	374,361	274,807
Liabilities, Noncurrent	313,253	331,235
Revenues	2,584,532	2,246,412	2,463,945
Gross Profit	350,708	289,590	299,959
Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	151,196	68,055	102,069
Earnings attributable to CHS Inc.	78,519	34,026	51,608
Ardent Mills & TEMCO
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Assets, Current	1,194,484	960,358
Assets, Noncurrent	1,971,103	1,923,696
Liabilities, Current	628,344	452,382
Liabilities, Noncurrent	626,479	637,850
Revenues	6,897,330	5,976,835	6,603,450
Gross Profit	541,718	347,209	319,296
Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	247,544	80,328	118,251
Earnings attributable to CHS Inc.	$ 43,339	$ (1,432)	$ 3,572

Organization, Basis of Presenta

Organization, Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2021
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Organization, Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies	Organization, Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies Organization CHS Inc. (referred to herein as "CHS," "we," "us" or "our") is the nation’s leading integrated agricultural cooperative. As a cooperative, CHS is owned by farmers and ranchers and member cooperatives ("members") across the United States. We also have preferred shareholders that own shares of our five series of preferred stock, all of which are listed and traded on the Global Select Market of The Nasdaq Stock Market LLC ("The Nasdaq"). See Note 12, Equities , for more detailed information. We buy commodities from and provide products and services to individual agricultural producers, local cooperatives and other companies (including member and other nonmember customers), both domestically and internationally. Those products and services include initial agricultural inputs such as fuels, farm supplies, crop nutrients and crop protection products, as well as agricultural outputs that include grains and oilseeds, processed grains and oilseeds, renewable fuels and food products. A portion of our operations are conducted through equity investments and joint ventures whose operating results are not fully consolidated with our results; rather, a proportionate share of the income or loss from those entities is included as a component in our net income under the equity method of accounting. Basis of Presentation The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of CHS and all our subsidiaries and limited liability companies in which we have a controlling interest. The effects of all significant intercompany transactions have been eliminated. The notes to our consolidated financial statements refer to our Energy, Ag, Nitrogen Production and Foods reportable segments, as well as our Corporate and Other category, which represents an aggregation of individually immaterial operating segments. The Nitrogen Production reportable segment consists of our investment in CF Industries Nitrogen, LLC ("CF Nitrogen"), and allocated expenses. The Foods reportable segment met quantitative criteria to become a reportable segment during fiscal 2021 and consists of our investment in Ventura Foods, LLC. ("Ventura Foods"), and allocated expenses. See Note 14, Segment Reporting , for more information. Use of Estimates The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. We base our estimates on assumptions that are believed to be reasonable, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities. Due to the inherent uncertainty involved in making estimates, actual results could differ from those estimates. We evaluate our estimates and assumptions on an ongoing basis. Significant Accounting Policies Significant accounting policies are summarized below or within the related notes to our consolidated financial statements. Cash and Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash Cash equivalents include short-term, highly liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less at the date of acquisition. The carrying value of cash and cash equivalents approximates the fair value due to the short-term nature of the instruments. Restricted cash is included in our Consolidated Balance Sheets within other current assets and primarily relates to customer deposits for futures and option contracts associated with regulated commodities held in separate accounts as required under federal and other regulations. Pursuant to the requirements of the Commodity Exchange Act, such funds must be carried in separate accounts that are designated as segregated customer accounts, as applicable. Restricted cash also includes funds held in escrow pursuant to applicable regulations limiting their usage. The following table provides a reconciliation of cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash as reported within our Consolidated Balance Sheets that aggregates to the amount presented in our Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows. August 31, 2021 2020 2019 (Dollars in thousands) Cash and cash equivalents $ 413,159 $ 140,874 $ 211,179 Restricted cash included in other current assets 129,325 76,119 88,496 Total cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash $ 542,484 $ 216,993 $ 299,675 Recent Accounting Pronouncements Except for the recent accounting pronouncements described below, other recent accounting pronouncements are not expected to have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements. Adopted In June 2016, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Accounting Standards Update ("ASU") No. 2016-13, Financial Instruments - Credit Losses ("ASC Topic 326"): Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments
New Accounting Pronouncements and Changes in Accounting Principles	Not Yet Adopted There are not any recent accounting pronouncements yet to be adopted that we expect to have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.

Receivables

Receivables	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2021
Receivables [Abstract]
Receivables	Receivables Receivables as of August 31, 2021 and 2020, are as follows: 2021 2020 (Dollars in thousands) Trade accounts receivable $ 2,047,198 $ 1,476,585 CHS Capital short-term notes receivable 505,778 563,934 Other 451,630 491,068 Gross receivables 3,004,606 2,531,587 Less allowances and reserves 143,722 165,540 Total receivables $ 2,860,884 $ 2,366,047 Trade Accounts Receivable Trade accounts receivable are recorded at net realizable value, which includes an allowance for expected credit losses in accordance with ASC Topic 326. The allowance for expected credit losses is based on our best estimate of expected credit losses in existing receivable balances and is determined using historical write-off experience, adjusted for various industry and regional data and current expectations of future credit losses. Receivables from related parties are disclosed in Note 18, Related Party Transactions . No third-party customer accounted for more than 10% of the total receivables balance as of August 31, 2021 or 2020. CHS Capital Notes Receivable Notes Receivable CHS Capital, LLC ("CHS Capital"), our wholly-owned subsidiary, has short-term notes receivable from commercial and producer borrowers. The short-term notes receivable have maturity terms of 12 months or less and are reported at their outstanding unpaid principal balances, less an allowance for expected credit losses, as CHS Capital has the intent and ability to hold the applicable loans for the foreseeable future or until maturity or payoff. The carrying value of CHS Capital short-term notes receivable approximates fair value given the notes' short-term duration and use of market pricing adjusted for risk. Notes receivable from commercial borrowers are collateralized by various combinations of mortgages, personal property, accounts and notes receivable, inventories and assignments of certain regional cooperatives' capital stock. These loans are primarily originated in the states of North Dakota and Minnesota. CHS Capital also has loans receivable from producer borrowers that are collateralized by various combinations of growing crops, livestock, inventories, accounts receivable, personal property and supplemental mortgages and are originated in the same states as the commercial notes. In addition to the short-term balances included in the table above, CHS Capital had long-term notes receivable, with durations of generally not more than 10 years, totaling $55.4 million and $101.5 million at August 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively. The long-term notes receivable are included in other assets on our Consolidated Balance Sheets. As of August 31, 2021 and 2020, commercial notes represented 28% and 33%, respectively, and producer notes represented 72% and 67%, respectively, of total CHS Capital notes receivable. CHS Capital has commitments to extend credit to customers if there are no violations of any contractually established conditions. As of August 31, 2021, CHS Capital customers had additional available credit of $706.9 million. Allowance for Loan Losses CHS Capital maintains an allowance for loan losses that is an estimate of current expected losses inherent in the loans receivable portfolio. In accordance with ASC Topic 326, the allowance for loan losses is based on our current expectation for future losses, which takes into consideration historical loss experience, third-party industry forecasts, as well as other quantitative and qualitative factors addressing operational risks and industry trends. Additions to the allowance for loan losses are reflected within marketing, general and administrative expenses in the Consolidated Statements of Operations. The portion of loans receivable deemed uncollectible is charged off against the allowance for loan losses. Recoveries of previously charged off amounts increase the allowance for loan losses. No significant amounts of CHS Capital notes were past due as of August 31, 2021 or 2020, and the allowance for loan losses related to CHS Capital notes were not material as of either date. Interest Income Interest income is recognized on the accrual basis using a method that computes simple interest on a daily basis. Accrual of interest on commercial loans receivable is discontinued at the time the receivable is 90 days past due unless the credit is well-collateralized and in process of collection. Past due status is based on contractual terms of the loan. Producer loans receivable are placed in nonaccrual status based on estimates and analysis due to the annual debt service terms inherent to CHS Capital's producer loans. In all cases, loans are placed in nonaccrual status or charged off at an earlier date if collection of principal or interest is considered doubtful. Troubled Debt Restructurings Restructuring of a loan constitutes a troubled debt restructuring, or restructured loan, if the creditor, for economic reasons related to the debtor's financial difficulties, grants a concession to the debtor that it would otherwise not consider. Concessions vary by program and borrower. Concessions may include interest rate reductions, term extensions, payment deferrals or the acceptance of additional collateral in lieu of payments. In limited circumstances, principal may be forgiven. When a restructured loan constitutes a troubled debt restructuring, CHS includes these loans within its impaired loans. CHS Capital had no significant troubled debt restructurings during the years ended August 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019, and no third-party borrowers that accounted for more than 10% of the total CHS Capital notes receivable or total receivables as of August 31, 2021 or 2020. Loan Participations For the years ended August 31, 2021 and 2020, CHS Capital sold $40.8 million and $70.6 million of notes receivable, respectively, to various counterparties under a master participation agreement. The sales resulted in the removal of notes receivable from the Consolidated Balance Sheets. CHS Capital has no retained interests in the transferred notes receivable, other than collection and administrative services. Proceeds from sales of notes receivable have been included in investing activities in the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows. Fees received related to the servicing of notes receivable are recorded in other income in the Consolidated Statements of Operations. We consider the fees received adequate compensation for services rendered and, accordingly, have recorded no servicing asset or liability. Other Receivables Other receivables are comprised of certain other amounts recorded in the normal course of business, including receivables related to vendor rebates, value-added taxes, certain financing receivables and pre-crop financing, primarily to Brazilian farmers, to finance a portion of supplier production costs. We receive volume-based rebates from certain vendors during the year. These vendor rebates are accounted for in accordance with ASC 705, Cost of Sales and Services, based on the terms of the volume rebate program. For rebates that meet the definition of a binding arrangement and are both probable and estimable, we estimate the amount of the rebate we will receive and accrue it as a reduction of the cost of inventory and cost of goods sold over the period in which the rebate is earned. For pre-crop financing arrangements, we do not bear costs or operational risks associated with the related growing crops, although our ability to be paid depends on the crops actually being produced. The financing is collateralized by future crops, land and physical assets of the farmers, carries a local market interest rate and settles when the farmer's crop is harvested and sold. No significant troubled debt restructurings occurred during the years ended August 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019, and no third-party customer or borrower accounted for more than 10% of the total receivables balance as of August 31, 2021 or 2020.

Inventories

Inventories	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2021
Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]
Inventories	Inventories Inventories as of August 31, 2021 and 2020, are as follows: 2021 2020 (Dollars in thousands) Grain and oilseed $ 1,435,544 $ 1,064,079 Energy 762,317 696,858 Agronomy 958,548 822,535 Processed grain and oilseed 140,975 126,022 Other 37,291 32,644 Total inventories $ 3,334,675 $ 2,742,138 Grain, processed grain, oilseed, processed oilseed and other minimally processed soy-based inventories are accounted for in accordance with ASC Topic 330, Inventory , and are stated at net realizable value. These inventories are agricultural commodity inventories that are readily convertible to cash because of their commodity characteristics, widely available markets and international pricing mechanisms. The net realizable value of agricultural commodity inventories is determined using inputs that are generally based on exchange traded prices and/or recent market bids and offers, including location-specific adjustments. Location-specific inputs are driven by local market supply and demand and are generally based on broker or dealer quotations or market transactions in either listed or over-the-counter ("OTC") markets. Changes in the net realizable value of agricultural commodity inventories are recognized in earnings as a component of cost of goods sold. All other inventories are stated at the lower of cost or net realizable value. Costs for inventories produced or modified by us through a manufacturing process include fixed and variable production and raw material costs, and inbound freight costs for raw materials. Costs for inventories purchased for resale include the cost of products and freight incurred to place the products at our points of sale. The costs of certain energy inventories (wholesale refined products, crude oil and asphalt) are determined on the last-in, first-out ("LIFO") method; all other inventories of nongrain products purchased for resale are valued on the first-in, first-out ("FIFO") and average cost methods. As of August 31, 2021 and 2020, we valued approximately 13% and 16%, respectively, of inventories, primarily crude oil and refined fuels within our Energy segment, using the lower of cost, determined on the LIFO method, or net realizable value. If the FIFO method of accounting had been used, inventories would have been higher than the reported amount by $359.2 million and $93.5 million as of August 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively. During fiscal 2021, we recorded LIFO liquidations for certain energy product inventories. The costs of these liquidated inventories in the historical LIFO layers were lower than current costs, which resulted in decreased cost of goods sold of $35.3 million had the inventory liquidations not taken place. There were no liquidations of LIFO inventories during fiscal 2020 or fiscal 2019.

Deferred Costs, Capitalized, Pr

Deferred Costs, Capitalized, Prepaid, and Other Assets	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2021
Other Current Assets [Abstract]
Other Assets	Other Assets Other assets as of August 31, 2021 and 2020, are as follows: 2021 2020 (Dollars in thousands) Goodwill $ 171,601 $ 172,404 Customer lists, trademarks and other intangible assets 58,395 65,025 Notes receivable (Note 3) 73,713 109,145 Long-term derivative assets (Note 15) 21,567 21,157 Prepaid pension and other benefits (Note 13) 119,825 106,209 Capitalized major maintenance 196,641 228,511 Cash value life insurance 147,682 130,673 Operating lease right of use assets (Note 19) 253,451 257,834 Other 55,333 48,471 Total other assets $ 1,098,208 $ 1,139,429 Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets Goodwill represents the excess of cost over the fair value of identifiable assets acquired. Goodwill is assessed for impairment on an annual basis as of July 31, either by first assessing qualitative factors to determine whether a quantitative goodwill impairment test is necessary or by proceeding directly to the quantitative test. The quantitative test may be required more frequently if triggering events or other circumstances occur that could indicate impairment. Goodwill is assessed for impairment at the reporting unit level, which has been determined to be our operating segments or one level below our operating segments in certain instances. Changes in the net carrying amount of goodwill for the year ended August 31, 2021, are included in the table below. There were no changes in the net carrying amount of goodwill for the year ended August 31, 2020. Energy Ag Corporate Total (Dollars in thousands) Balances, August 31, 2020 $ 552 $ 161,278 $ 10,574 $ 172,404 Goodwill disposed of during the period — (803) — (803) Balances, August 31, 2021 $ 552 $ 160,475 $ 10,574 $ 171,601 No goodwill has been allocated to our Nitrogen Production or Foods segments, which each consist of a single investment accounted for under the equity method. No goodwill impairments were identified as a result of our annual goodwill analyses performed as of July 31, 2021 or 2020. However, as a result of our annual goodwill impairment analyses performed as of July 31, 2019, we recorded a goodwill impairment charge of $27.4 million associated with a reporting unit in our Ag segment. The impairment charge primarily resulted from changing market dynamics that reduced future profitability within the reporting unit, as well as strategy changes and the challenging economic environment in the agriculture industry. The impairment charge was recorded in marketing, general and administrative expenses in the Consolidated Statement of Operations for the year ended August 31, 2019. Management will continue to monitor the results and projected cash flows for each of our businesses to assess whether any reserves or impairments may be necessary in the future, particularly for our businesses that have experienced or could experience substantial reductions in demand or price declines associated with the COVID-19 pandemic or other factors. Intangible assets subject to amortization primarily include customer lists, trademarks and noncompete agreements, and are amortized over their respective useful lives (ranging from two August 31, 2021 August 31, 2020 Carrying Amount Accumulated Amortization Net Carrying Amount Accumulated Amortization Net (Dollars in thousands) Customer lists $ 84,565 $ (29,254) $ 55,311 $ 84,895 $ (23,770) $ 61,125 Trademarks and other intangible assets 10,425 (7,341) 3,084 10,735 (6,835) 3,900 Total intangible assets $ 94,990 $ (36,595) $ 58,395 $ 95,630 $ (30,605) $ 65,025 Intangible asset amortization expense for the years ended August 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019, was $6.9 million, $7.3 million and $5.3 million, respectively. The estimated annual amortization expense related to intangible assets subject to amortization for future years is as follows: (Dollars in thousands) 2022 $ 6,701 2023 6,607 2024 6,557 2025 6,340 2026 6,159 Thereafter 25,945 Total $ 58,309 Capitalized Major Maintenance Activity related to capitalized major maintenance costs at our refineries for the years ended August 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019, is summarized below: Balance at Cost Amortization Balance at (Dollars in thousands) 2021 $ 228,511 $ 41,899 $ (73,769) $ 196,641 2020 286,890 14,496 (72,875) 228,511 2019 130,780 224,406 (68,296) 286,890
Other Current Assets	Other Current Assets Other current assets as of August 31, 2021 and 2020, are as follows: 2021 2020 (Dollars in thousands) Derivative assets (Note 15) $ 559,056 $ 371,195 Margin and related deposits 336,397 194,097 Supplier advance payments 194,706 198,699 Restricted cash 129,325 76,119 Other 170,749 177,378 Total other current assets $ 1,390,233 $ 1,017,488 Margin and Related Deposits Many of our derivative contracts with futures and options brokers require us to make margin deposits of cash or other assets. Subsequent margin deposits may also be necessary when changes in commodity prices result in a loss on the contract value to comply with applicable regulations. Our margin and related deposit assets are generally held in separate accounts to support the associated derivative contracts and may be used to fund or partially fund the settlement of those contracts as they expire. Similar to our derivative financial instruments, margin and related deposits are reported on a gross basis. Supplier Advance Payments

Property, Plant and Equipment

Property, Plant and Equipment	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2021
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
Property, Plant and Equipment	Property, Plant and Equipment Major classes of property, plant and equipment, including finance lease assets, are summarized in the table below as of August 31, 2021 and 2020. 2021 2020 (Dollars in thousands) Land and land improvements $ 324,757 $ 317,714 Buildings 1,171,423 1,110,490 Machinery and equipment 7,673,748 7,559,437 Office equipment and other 378,352 362,084 Construction in progress 337,977 310,901 Gross property, plant and equipment 9,886,257 9,660,626 Less accumulated depreciation and amortization 5,076,252 4,702,688 Total property, plant and equipment $ 4,810,005 $ 4,957,938 Property, plant and equipment are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and amortization. Depreciation and amortization are provided on the straight-line method by charges to operations at rates based on the expected useful lives of individual or groups of assets (generally 15 to 20 years for land improvements, 20 to 40 years for buildings, five to 20 years for machinery and equipment, and three to 10 years for office equipment and other). Expenditures for maintenance and minor repairs and renewals are expensed. We also capitalize and amortize eligible costs to acquire or develop internal-use software that are incurred during the application development stage. When assets are sold or otherwise disposed of, the cost and related accumulated depreciation and amortization are removed from the related accounts and resulting gains or losses are reflected in operations. Depreciation expense, including amortization of finance lease assets, for the years ended August 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019, was $455.9 million, $470.4 million and $495.3 million, respectively. Property, plant and equipment and other long-lived assets are reviewed for impairment when events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amounts may not be recoverable in accordance with U.S. GAAP. This evaluation of recoverability is based on various indicators, including the nature, future economic benefits and geographic locations of the assets, historical or future profitability measures and other external market conditions. If these indicators suggest the carrying amounts of an asset or asset group may not be recoverable, potential impairment is evaluated using undiscounted estimated future cash flows. Should the sum of the expected future net cash flows be less than the carrying value, an impairment loss would be recognized. An impairment loss would be measured as the amount by which the carrying value of the asset or asset group exceeds its fair value. No significant impairments were identified during fiscal 2021, fiscal 2020 or fiscal 2019. We have asset retirement obligations with respect to certain of our refineries and other assets due to various legal obligations to clean and/or dispose of the component parts at the time they are retired. In most cases, these assets can be used for extended and indeterminate periods of time if they are properly maintained and/or upgraded. It is our practice and current intent to maintain refineries and related assets and to continue making improvements to those assets based on technological advances. As a result, we believe our refineries and related assets have indeterminate lives for purposes of estimating asset retirement obligations because dates or ranges of dates upon which we would retire a refinery and related assets cannot reasonably be estimated at this time. When a date or range of dates can reasonably be estimated for the retirement of any component part of a refinery or other asset, we estimate the cost of performing the retirement activities and record a liability for the fair value of that future cost.

Other Assets

Other Assets	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2021
Other Assets [Abstract]
Other Assets	Other Assets Other assets as of August 31, 2021 and 2020, are as follows: 2021 2020 (Dollars in thousands) Goodwill $ 171,601 $ 172,404 Customer lists, trademarks and other intangible assets 58,395 65,025 Notes receivable (Note 3) 73,713 109,145 Long-term derivative assets (Note 15) 21,567 21,157 Prepaid pension and other benefits (Note 13) 119,825 106,209 Capitalized major maintenance 196,641 228,511 Cash value life insurance 147,682 130,673 Operating lease right of use assets (Note 19) 253,451 257,834 Other 55,333 48,471 Total other assets $ 1,098,208 $ 1,139,429 Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets Goodwill represents the excess of cost over the fair value of identifiable assets acquired. Goodwill is assessed for impairment on an annual basis as of July 31, either by first assessing qualitative factors to determine whether a quantitative goodwill impairment test is necessary or by proceeding directly to the quantitative test. The quantitative test may be required more frequently if triggering events or other circumstances occur that could indicate impairment. Goodwill is assessed for impairment at the reporting unit level, which has been determined to be our operating segments or one level below our operating segments in certain instances. Changes in the net carrying amount of goodwill for the year ended August 31, 2021, are included in the table below. There were no changes in the net carrying amount of goodwill for the year ended August 31, 2020. Energy Ag Corporate Total (Dollars in thousands) Balances, August 31, 2020 $ 552 $ 161,278 $ 10,574 $ 172,404 Goodwill disposed of during the period — (803) — (803) Balances, August 31, 2021 $ 552 $ 160,475 $ 10,574 $ 171,601 No goodwill has been allocated to our Nitrogen Production or Foods segments, which each consist of a single investment accounted for under the equity method. No goodwill impairments were identified as a result of our annual goodwill analyses performed as of July 31, 2021 or 2020. However, as a result of our annual goodwill impairment analyses performed as of July 31, 2019, we recorded a goodwill impairment charge of $27.4 million associated with a reporting unit in our Ag segment. The impairment charge primarily resulted from changing market dynamics that reduced future profitability within the reporting unit, as well as strategy changes and the challenging economic environment in the agriculture industry. The impairment charge was recorded in marketing, general and administrative expenses in the Consolidated Statement of Operations for the year ended August 31, 2019. Management will continue to monitor the results and projected cash flows for each of our businesses to assess whether any reserves or impairments may be necessary in the future, particularly for our businesses that have experienced or could experience substantial reductions in demand or price declines associated with the COVID-19 pandemic or other factors. Intangible assets subject to amortization primarily include customer lists, trademarks and noncompete agreements, and are amortized over their respective useful lives (ranging from two August 31, 2021 August 31, 2020 Carrying Amount Accumulated Amortization Net Carrying Amount Accumulated Amortization Net (Dollars in thousands) Customer lists $ 84,565 $ (29,254) $ 55,311 $ 84,895 $ (23,770) $ 61,125 Trademarks and other intangible assets 10,425 (7,341) 3,084 10,735 (6,835) 3,900 Total intangible assets $ 94,990 $ (36,595) $ 58,395 $ 95,630 $ (30,605) $ 65,025 Intangible asset amortization expense for the years ended August 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019, was $6.9 million, $7.3 million and $5.3 million, respectively. The estimated annual amortization expense related to intangible assets subject to amortization for future years is as follows: (Dollars in thousands) 2022 $ 6,701 2023 6,607 2024 6,557 2025 6,340 2026 6,159 Thereafter 25,945 Total $ 58,309 Capitalized Major Maintenance Activity related to capitalized major maintenance costs at our refineries for the years ended August 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019, is summarized below: Balance at Cost Amortization Balance at (Dollars in thousands) 2021 $ 228,511 $ 41,899 $ (73,769) $ 196,641 2020 286,890 14,496 (72,875) 228,511 2019 130,780 224,406 (68,296) 286,890

Other Liabilities

Other Liabilities	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2021
Other Liabilities Disclosure [Abstract]
Other Liabilities Disclosure	Other Current Liabilities Other current liabilities as of August 31, 2021 and 2020, are as follows: 2021 2020 (Dollars in thousands) Customer margin deposits and credit balances $ 269,114 $ 149,539 Customer advance payments 439,293 300,100 Derivative liabilities (Note 15) 449,522 416,204 Dividends and equity payable (Note 12) 150,000 63,000 Total other current liabilities $ 1,307,929 $ 928,843

Income Taxes

Income Taxes	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2021
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income Taxes	Income Taxes CHS is a nonexempt agricultural cooperative and files a consolidated federal income tax return within our tax return period. We are subject to tax on income from nonpatronage sources, nonqualified patronage distributions and undistributed patronage-sourced income. Income tax (benefit) expense is primarily the current tax payable for the period and the change during the period in certain deferred tax assets and liabilities. Deferred income taxes reflect the impact of temporary differences between the amounts of assets and liabilities recognized under U.S. GAAP and such amounts recognized for federal and state income tax purposes, based on enacted tax laws and statutory tax rates applicable to the periods in which the differences are expected to affect taxable income. The (benefit from) provision for income taxes for the years ended August 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019 is as follows: 2021 2020 2019 (Dollars in thousands) Current: Federal $ (533) $ 4,519 $ 211 State 2,943 (2,231) 3,815 Foreign 56 2,748 (2,630) Total Current 2,466 5,036 1,396 Deferred: Federal (24,676) (36,231) (4,923) State (15,666) (5,263) (8,491) Foreign (373) (273) (438) Total Deferred (40,715) (41,767) (13,852) Total $ (38,249) $ (36,731) $ (12,456) Domestic income before income taxes was $497.5 million, $324.4 million and $825.7 million for the years ended August 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019, respectively. Foreign income (loss) before income taxes was $17.8 million, $62.5 million and ($3.1) million for the years ended August 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019, respectively. Deferred taxes are comprised of basis differences related to investments, accrued liabilities and certain federal and state tax credits. Deferred tax assets and liabilities as of August 31, 2021 and 2020, are as follows: 2021 2020 (Dollars in thousands) Deferred tax assets: Accrued expenses $ 57,245 $ 51,560 Postretirement health care and deferred compensation 42,217 42,898 Tax credit carryforwards 128,824 123,193 Loss carryforwards 115,327 116,741 Nonqualified equity 391,309 344,924 Lease obligations 62,770 64,140 Other 92,325 85,856 Deferred tax assets valuation allowance (208,810) (219,891) Total deferred tax assets 681,207 609,421 Deferred tax liabilities: Pension 24,277 17,131 Investments 110,910 95,916 Property, plant and equipment 557,129 556,160 Right of use assets 61,870 64,140 Other 28,549 15,417 Total deferred tax liabilities 782,735 748,764 Net deferred tax liabilities $ 101,528 $ 139,343 We have total gross loss carryforwards of $527.5 million, as of August 31, 2021, of which $304.4 million will expire over periods ranging from fiscal 2022 to fiscal 2042. The remainder will carry forward indefinitely. Based on estimates of future taxable profits and losses in certain foreign tax jurisdictions, as well as consideration of other factors, we assessed whether a valuation allowance was necessary to reduce specific foreign loss carryforwards to amounts we believe are more likely than not to be realized as of August 31, 2021. If our estimates prove inaccurate, adjustments to the valuation allowances may be required in the future with gains or losses being charged to income in the period such determination is made. McPherson refinery's gross state tax credit carryforwards for income tax were approximately $129.7 million and $125.5 million as of August 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively. McPherson refinery's valuation allowance on Kansas state credits is necessary due to the limited amount of taxable income generated in Kansas by the combined group on an annual basis. Our general business credits of $44.1 million, comprised primarily of low-sulfur diesel credits, will begin to expire on August 31, 2027, and our state tax credits of $129.7 million will begin to expire on August 31, 2022. The reconciliation of the statutory federal income tax rates to the effective tax rates for the years ended August 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019 is as follows: 2021 2020 2019 Statutory federal income tax rate 21.0 % 21.0 % 21.0 % State and local income taxes, net of federal income tax benefit (2.6) (1.8) (0.7) Patronage earnings (11.4) (13.1) (14.3) Domestic production activities deduction (8.2) (19.0) (9.9) Export activities at rates other than the U.S. statutory rate 0.5 1.8 (2.1) Intercompany transfer of business assets (4.7) (1.6) — Increase in unrecognized tax benefits 0.8 4.2 0.2 Valuation allowance (0.2) (1.0) 2.6 Tax credits — 0.2 0.4 Other (2.6) (0.2) 1.3 Effective tax rate (7.4) % (9.5) % (1.5) % Primary drivers of the fiscal 2021 income tax benefit were retaining the current Domestic Production Activities Deduction ("DPAD") benefit and from tax planning associated with certain assets. Primary drivers of the fiscal 2020 income tax benefit were retaining the current DPAD benefit and the settlement of a U.S. federal audit, resulting in additional tax credit carryovers, which were partially offset by an increase in our uncertain tax position. Primary drivers of the fiscal 2019 income tax benefit were retaining the current DPAD benefit and deducting previously disallowed DPAD available from the carryback of excise tax credits, which were partially offset by an increase in our unrecognized deferred tax benefit. We file income tax returns in the U.S. federal jurisdiction, as well as various state and foreign jurisdictions. Our uncertain tax positions are affected by the tax years that are under audit or remain subject to examination by the relevant taxing authorities. In addition to the current year, fiscal 2007 through 2020 remain subject to examination for certain issues. Reserves are recorded against unrecognized tax benefits when we believe certain fully supportable tax return positions are likely to be challenged and we may or may not prevail. If we determine that a tax position is more likely than not to be sustained upon audit, based on the technical merits of the position, we recognize the benefit by measuring the amount that is greater than 50% likely of being realized. We reevaluate the technical merits of our tax positions and recognize an uncertain tax benefit, or derecognize a previously recorded tax benefit, when there is (i) completion of a tax audit, (ii) effective settlement of an issue, (iii) a change in applicable tax law including a tax case or legislative guidance, or (iv) expiration of the applicable statute of limitations. Significant judgment is required in accounting for tax reserves. A reconciliation of the gross beginning and ending amounts of unrecognized tax benefits for the periods presented follows: 2021 2020 2019 (Dollars in thousands) Balance at beginning of period $ 119,150 $ 101,128 $ 91,135 Additions attributable to current year tax positions 2,000 14,410 14,162 Additions attributable to prior year tax positions 15,974 6,128 — Reductions attributable to prior year tax positions (14,975) (2,516) (4,169) Balance at end of period $ 122,149 $ 119,150 $ 101,128 If we were to prevail on all positions taken in relation to uncertain tax positions, $114.3 million of the unrecognized tax benefits would ultimately benefit our effective tax rate. It is reasonably possible that the total amount of unrecognized tax benefits could significantly change in the next 12 months.

Equities

Equities	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2021
Equity [Abstract]
Equities	Equities Patronage and Equity Redemptions In accordance with our bylaws and by action of the Board of Directors, annual net earnings from patronage sources are distributed to consenting patrons following the close of each fiscal year and are based on amounts using financial statement earnings. The cash portion of the qualified patronage distribution, if any, is determined annually by the Board of Directors, with the balance issued in the form of qualified and/or nonqualified capital equity certificates. Total patronage distributions for fiscal 2021 are estimated to be $280.3 million, with the qualified cash portion estimated to be $50.0 million and nonqualified equity distributions of $230.3 million. No portion of annual net earnings for fiscal 2021 will be issued in the form of qualified capital equity certificates. The following table presents estimated patronage distributions for the year ending August 31, 2022, and actual patronage distributions for the years ended August 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019: 2022 2021 2020 2019 (Dollars in millions) Patronage distributed in cash $ 50.0 $ 30.0 $ 90.1 $ 75.8 Patronage distributed in equity 230.3 214.8 474.4 353.0 Total patronage distributed $ 280.3 $ 244.8 $ 564.5 $ 428.8 Annual net earnings from patronage or other sources may be added to the unallocated capital reserve or, upon action by the Board of Directors, may be allocated to members in the form of nonpatronage equity certificates. The Board of Directors authorized, in accordance with our bylaws, that 10% of the earnings from patronage business for fiscal 2021, 2020 and 2019 be added to our capital reserves. Redemptions of outstanding equity are at the discretion of the Board of Directors. Redemptions of capital equity certificates approved by the Board of Directors are divided into two pools, one for nonindividuals (primarily member cooperatives) who may participate in an annual redemption program for qualified equities held by them and another for individual members who are eligible for equity redemptions at age 70 or upon death. The CHS redemption policy includes a redemption program for individuals similar to the one that is available to nonindividual members, subject to Board of Directors overall discretion whether to redeem outstanding equity. In accordance with authorization from the Board of Directors, we expect total redemptions related to the year ended August 31, 2021, which will be distributed in fiscal 2022, to be approximately $100.0 million. This amount is classified as a current liability on our August 31, 2021, Consolidated Balance Sheet. During the years ended August 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019, we redeemed in cash, outstanding owners' equities in accordance with authorization from the Board of Directors, in the amounts of $79.4 million, $96.4 million and $85.5 million, respectively. Preferred Stock The following is a summary of our outstanding preferred stock as of August 31, 2021, all shares of which are listed and traded on The Nasdaq: Nasdaq Symbol Issuance Date Shares Outstanding Redemption Value Net Proceeds (a) Dividend Rate Dividend Payment Frequency Redeemable Beginning (d) (Dollars in millions) 8% Cumulative Redeemable CHSCP (e) 12,272,003 $ 306.8 $ 311.2 8.00 % Quarterly 7/18/2023 Class B Cumulative Redeemable, Series 1 CHSCO (f) 21,459,066 536.5 569.3 7.875 % Quarterly 9/26/2023 Class B Reset Rate Cumulative Redeemable, Series 2 CHSCN 3/11/2014 16,800,000 420.0 406.2 7.10 % Quarterly 3/31/2024 Class B Reset Rate Cumulative Redeemable, Series 3 CHSCM 9/15/2014 19,700,000 492.5 476.7 6.75 % Quarterly 9/30/2024 Class B Cumulative Redeemable, Series 4 CHSCL 1/21/2015 20,700,000 517.5 501.0 7.50 % Quarterly 1/21/2025 (a) Includes patrons' equities redeemed with preferred stock. (b) The Class B Reset Rate Cumulative Redeemable Preferred Stock, Series 2 accumulates dividends at a rate of 7.10% per year until March 31, 2024, and then at a rate equal to the three-month LIBOR plus 4.298%, not to exceed 8.00% per annum, subsequent to March 31, 2024. (c) The Class B Reset Rate Cumulative Redeemable Preferred Stock, Series 3 accumulates dividends at a rate of 6.75% per year until September 30, 2024, and then at a rate equal to the three-month LIBOR plus 4.155%, not to exceed 8.00% per annum, subsequent to September 30, 2024. (d) Preferred stock is redeemable for cash at our option, in whole or in part, at a per share price equal to the per share liquidation preference of $25.00 per share, plus all dividends accumulated and unpaid on that share to and including the date of redemption, beginning on the dates set forth in this column. (e) The 8% Cumulative Redeemable Preferred Stock was issued at various times from 2003 through 2010. (f) Shares of Class B Cumulative Redeemable Preferred Stock, Series 1 were issued on September 26, 2013; August 25, 2014; March 31, 2016; and March 30, 2017. Preferred Stock Dividends We made dividend payments on our preferred stock of $168.7 million during each of the years ended August 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019. As of August 31, 2021, the Board of Directors had not authorized the issuance of any preferred shares that were not outstanding. The following is a summary of dividends per share by series of preferred stock for the years ended August 31, 2021 and 2020: Years Ended August 31, Nasdaq Symbol 2021 2020 (Dollars per share) 8% Cumulative Redeemable CHSCP $ 2.00 $ 2.00 Class B Cumulative Redeemable, Series 1 CHSCO 1.97 1.97 Class B Reset Rate Cumulative Redeemable, Series 2 CHSCN 1.78 1.78 Class B Reset Rate Cumulative Redeemable, Series 3 CHSCM 1.69 1.69 Class B Cumulative Redeemable, Series 4 CHSCL 1.88 1.88 Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss Changes in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) by component, for the years ended August 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019 are as follows: Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Unrealized Net Gain (Loss) on Available for Sale Investments Cash Flow Hedges Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment Total (Dollars in thousands) Balance as of August 31, 2018, net of tax $ (140,335) $ 8,861 $ (5,882) $ (62,559) $ (199,915) Other comprehensive income (loss), before tax: Amounts before reclassifications (51,118) — 37,709 (9,990) (23,399) Amounts reclassified out 10,279 — (9,843) — 436 Total other comprehensive income (loss), before tax (40,839) — 27,866 (9,990) (22,963) Tax effect 8,280 — (7,670) 41 651 Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax (32,559) — 20,196 (9,949) (22,312) Reclassifications 416 (8,861) 983 2,756 (4,706) Balance as of August 31, 2019, net of tax (172,478) — 15,297 (69,752) (226,933) Other comprehensive income (loss), before tax: Amounts before reclassifications (4,751) — 16,430 (17,021) (5,342) Amounts reclassified out 19,908 — (22,291) — (2,383) Total other comprehensive income (loss), before tax 15,157 — (5,861) (17,021) (7,725) Tax effect (2,359) — 1,450 1,643 734 Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax 12,798 — (4,411) (15,378) (6,991) Balance as of August 31, 2020, net of tax (159,680) — 10,886 (85,130) (233,924) Other comprehensive income (loss), before tax: Amounts before reclassifications 4,048 — 11,700 5,573 21,321 Amounts reclassified out 20,256 — (19,753) — 503 Total other comprehensive income (loss), before tax 24,304 — (8,053) 5,573 21,824 Tax effect (6,009) — 1,991 (273) (4,291) Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax 18,295 — (6,062) 5,300 17,533 Balance as of August 31, 2021, net of tax $ (141,385) $ — $ 4,824 $ (79,830) $ (216,391) Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) were related to pension and other postretirement benefits, cash flow hedges, available-for-sale investments and foreign currency translation adjustments. Pension and other postretirement reclassifications include amortization of net actuarial loss, prior service credit and transition amounts and are recorded as cost of goods sold and marketing, general and administrative expenses (see Note 13, Benefit Plans , for further information). Gains or losses on the sale of available-for-sale investments and foreign currency translation reclassifications related to sales of businesses are recorded in other income. As described in Note 15, Derivative Financial Instruments and Hedging Activities , amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss for cash flow hedges are recorded in cost of goods sold.

Benefit Plans

Benefit Plans	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2021
Retirement Benefits [Abstract]
Benefit Plans	Benefit Plans We have various pension and other defined benefits as well as defined contribution plans in which substantially all employees may participate. We also have nonqualified supplemental executive and Board retirement plans. We provide defined life insurance and health care benefits for certain retired employees and Board of Directors participants. The plan is contributory based on years of service and family status, with retiree contributions adjusted annually. Financial information on changes in projected benefit obligation, plan assets funded and balance sheet status as of August 31, 2021 and 2020, is as follows: Qualified Nonqualified Other Benefits 2021 2020 2021 2020 2021 2020 (Dollars in thousands) Change in benefit obligation: Projected benefit obligation at beginning of period $ 918,002 $ 876,696 $ 19,183 $ 19,047 $ 30,316 $ 31,098 Service cost 45,229 42,151 433 405 1,186 1,050 Interest cost 16,563 21,722 273 429 493 747 Actuarial loss (gain) 34,958 6,265 2,034 1,382 (765) (2,286) Assumption change (12,847) 40,694 (55) 775 (398) 1,275 Plan amendments 113 — — — — — Settlements — — — (2,130) — — Benefits paid (76,779) (69,526) (1,264) (725) (1,763) (1,568) Projected benefit obligation at end of period $ 925,239 $ 918,002 $ 20,604 $ 19,183 $ 29,069 $ 30,316 Change in plan assets: Fair value of plan assets at beginning of period $ 976,542 $ 909,427 $ — $ — $ — $ — Actual gain on plan assets 70,161 90,241 — — — — Company contributions 23,200 46,400 1,264 2,855 1,763 1,568 Settlements — — — (2,130) — — Benefits paid (76,779) (69,526) (1,264) (725) (1,763) (1,568) Fair value of plan assets at end of period $ 993,124 $ 976,542 $ — $ — $ — $ — Funded status at end of period $ 67,885 $ 58,540 $ (20,604) $ (19,183) $ (29,069) $ (30,316) Amounts recognized on balance sheet: Noncurrent assets $ 67,885 $ 58,540 $ — $ — $ — $ — Accrued benefit cost: Current liabilities — — (2,220) (1,660) (1,970) (2,090) Noncurrent liabilities — — (18,384) (17,523) (27,099) (28,226) Ending balance $ 67,885 $ 58,540 $ (20,604) $ (19,183) $ (29,069) $ (30,316) Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive loss (pretax): Prior service cost (credit) $ 873 $ 938 $ (388) $ (502) $ (2,270) $ (2,715) Net loss (gain) 199,785 225,983 5,579 3,813 (14,862) (15,064) Ending balance $ 200,658 $ 226,921 $ 5,191 $ 3,311 $ (17,132) $ (17,779) The accumulated benefit obligation of the qualified pension plans was $877.9 million and $871.6 million at August 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively. The accumulated benefit obligation of the nonqualified pension plans was $20.5 million and $18.2 million at August 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively. Information for the pension plans with an accumulated benefit obligation in excess of plan assets is set forth below: Years Ended August 31, 2021 2020 (Dollars in thousands) Projected benefit obligation $ 20,604 $ 19,183 Accumulated benefit obligation 20,513 18,172 Components of net periodic benefit costs for the years ended August 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019, are as follows: Qualified Nonqualified Other Benefits 2021 2020 2019 2021 2020 2019 2021 2020 2019 (Dollars in thousands) Components of net periodic benefit costs: Service cost $ 45,229 $ 42,151 $ 38,592 $ 433 $ 405 $ 311 $ 1,186 $ 1,050 $ 1,053 Interest cost 16,563 21,722 28,396 273 429 747 493 747 1,094 Expected return on assets (43,641) (46,684) (44,968) — — — — — — Settlement of retiree obligations — — 51 — — 191 — — — Prior service cost (credit) amortization 178 178 190 (114) (114) (75) (445) (445) (556) Actuarial loss (gain) amortization 21,790 21,583 12,348 212 98 2 (1,365) (1,392) (1,627) Net periodic benefit cost (benefit) $ 40,119 $ 38,950 $ 34,609 $ 804 $ 818 $ 1,176 $ (131) $ (40) $ (36) Plan assumptions for the years ended August 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019, are as follows: Qualified Nonqualified Other Benefits 2021 2020 2019 2021 2020 2019 2021 2020 2019 Weighted-average assumptions to determine the net periodic benefit cost: Interest credit rate for cash balance plans 4.65 % 4.65 % 4.65 % 4.65 % 4.65 % 4.65 % N/A N/A N/A Discount rate 2.65 % 3.06 % 4.23 % 2.07 % 2.70 % 4.09 % 2.43 % 2.89 % 4.08 % Expected return on plan assets 4.90 % 5.50 % 5.50 % N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A Rate of compensation increase 4.99 % 5.28 % 5.14 % 4.99 % 5.28 % 5.14 % N/A N/A N/A Weighted-average assumptions to determine the benefit obligations: Discount rate 2.78 % 2.67 % 3.06 % 2.08 % 2.15 % 2.70 % 2.57 % 2.43 % 2.89 % Rate of compensation increase 4.79 % 4.99 % 5.28 % 4.79 % 4.99 % 5.28 % N/A N/A N/A Components of net periodic benefit costs and amounts recognized in other comprehensive loss (income) for the years ended August 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019, are as follows: Qualified Nonqualified Other Benefits 2021 2020 2019 2021 2020 2019 2021 2020 2019 (Dollars in thousands) Other comprehensive loss (income): Prior service cost $ 113 $ — $ 18 $ — $ — $ — $ — $ — $ — Net actuarial loss (gain) (4,408) 3,401 47,556 1,978 2,157 1,917 (1,163) (1,011) 801 Amortization of actuarial (gain) loss (21,790) (21,583) (12,307) (212) (98) (2) 1,365 1,392 1,627 Amortization of prior service (credit) costs (178) (178) (190) 114 114 75 445 445 556 Settlement of retiree obligations (a) — — — — (397) (191) — — — Total recognized in other comprehensive loss (income) $ (26,263) $ (18,360) $ 35,077 $ 1,880 $ 1,776 $ 1,799 $ 647 $ 826 $ 2,984 (a) Reflects amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss (income) to net earnings. Estimated amortization in fiscal 2022 from accumulated other comprehensive loss into net periodic benefit cost is as follows: Qualified Nonqualified Other (Dollars in thousands) Amortization of prior service cost (credit) $ 178 $ (114) $ (445) Amortization of actuarial loss (gain) 23,343 478 (1,259) A significant assumption for pension costs and obligations is the discount rate. We utilize a full-yield curve approach by applying the specific spot rates along the yield curve used in the determination of the benefit obligation to the relevant projected cash flows. The discount rate reflects the rate at which the associated benefits could be effectively settled as of the measurement date. In estimating this rate, we look at rates of return on fixed-income investments of similar duration to the liabilities in the plans that receive high investment-grade ratings by recognized ratings agencies. For measurement purposes, a 6.8% annual rate of increase in the per capita cost of covered health care benefits was assumed for the year ended August 31, 2021. The rate was assumed to decrease gradually to 4.5% by 2028 and remain at that level thereafter. An annual analysis of the risk versus the return of the investment portfolio is conducted to justify the expected long-term rate of return assumption. We generally use long-term historical return information for the targeted asset mix identified in asset and liability studies. Adjustments are made to the expected long-term rate of return assumption when deemed necessary, based upon revised expectations of future investment performance of the overall investment markets. Assumed health care cost trend rates have a significant effect on the amounts reported for the health care plans. A one-percentage-point change in the assumed health care cost trend rates would have the following effects: 1% Increase 1% Decrease (Dollars in thousands) Effect on total of service and interest cost components $ 180 $ (150) Effect on postretirement benefit obligation 2,000 (1,700) Contributions depend primarily on market returns on the pension plan assets and minimum funding level requirements. During fiscal 2021, we made a discretionary contribution of $23.2 million to the pension plans. Based on the funded status of the qualified pension plans as of August 31, 2021, we do not currently believe we will be required to contribute to these plans in fiscal 2022, although we may voluntarily elect to do so. We expect to pay $4.2 million to participants of the nonqualified pension and postretirement benefit plans during fiscal 2022. Our retiree benefit payments, which reflect expected future service, are anticipated to be paid as follows: Qualified Nonqualified Other Benefits (Dollars in thousands) 2022 $ 70,100 $ 2,220 $ 1,970 2023 70,900 2,490 2,260 2024 70,300 2,210 2,340 2025 71,400 2,110 2,340 2026 73,900 2,100 2,290 2027-2031 342,700 7,930 8,920 We have trusts that hold the assets for the defined benefit plans. CHS has a qualified plan committee that sets investment guidelines with the assistance of external consultants. Investment objectives for the plans' assets are as follows: • Optimization of the long-term returns on plan assets at an acceptable level of risk; • Maintenance of broad diversification across asset classes and among investment managers; and • Focus on long-term return objectives. Asset allocation targets promote optimal expected return and volatility characteristics given the long-term time horizon for fulfilling the obligations of the pension plans. The investment portfolio contains a diversified portfolio of investment categories, including equities, fixed-income securities and real estate. Securities are also diversified in terms of domestic and international securities, short- and long-term securities, growth and value equities, large and small cap stocks, as well as active and passive management styles. Our pension plans' investment policy strategy is such that liabilities match assets. This is being accomplished through the asset portfolio mix by reducing volatility and de-risking the plans. The plans' target allocation percentages range between 45% and 80% for fixed income securities and range between 20% and 55% for equity securities. The qualified plan committee believes that with prudent risk tolerance and asset diversification, the plans should be able to meet pension obligations in the future. Our pension plans' recurring fair value measurements by asset category at August 31, 2021 and 2020, are presented in the tables below: 2021 Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Total (Dollars in thousands) Cash and cash equivalents $ 11,383 $ — $ — $ 11,383 Equities: Common/collective trust at net asset value (1) — — — 180,766 Fixed income securities: Common/collective trust at net asset value (1) — — — 707,831 Partnership and joint venture interests measured at net asset value (1) — — — 93,144 Total $ 11,383 $ — $ — $ 993,124 2020 Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Total (Dollars in thousands) Cash and cash equivalents $ 57,801 $ — $ — $ 57,801 Equities: Common/collective trust at net asset value (1) — — — 219,050 Fixed income securities: Common/collective trust at net asset value (1) — — — 603,250 Partnership and joint venture interests measured at net asset value (1) — — — 94,400 Other assets measured at net asset value (1) — — — 2,041 Total $ 57,801 $ — $ — $ 976,542 (1) In accordance with ASC Topic 820-10, Fair Value Measurement, certain assets that are measured at fair value using the net asset value per share (or its equivalent) practical expedient have not been categorized in the fair value hierarchy. The fair value amounts presented in the tables above are intended to permit reconciliation of the fair value hierarchy to the amounts presented in the "Financial information on changes in projected benefit obligation, plan assets funded and balance sheet status" table above. Definitions for valuation levels are found in Note 16, Fair Value Measurements . We use the following valuation methodologies for assets measured at fair value. Common/collective trusts. Common/collective trusts primarily consist of equity and fixed income funds and are valued using other significant observable inputs (including quoted prices for similar investments, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risks, referenced indices, quoted prices in inactive markets, adjusted quoted prices in active markets, adjusted quoted prices on foreign equity securities that were adjusted in accordance with pricing procedures approved by the trust, etc.). Common/collective trust investments can be redeemed daily and without restriction. Redemption of the entire investment balance generally requires a 45- to 60-day notice period. The equity funds provide exposure to large, mid and small cap U.S. equities, international large and small cap equities and emerging market equities. The fixed income funds provide exposure to U.S., international and emerging market debt securities. Partnership and joint venture interests. Valued at the net asset value of shares held by the plan at year-end as a practical expedient for fair value. The net asset value is based on the fair value of the underlying assets owned by the trust, minus its liabilities, then divided by the number of units outstanding. Redemptions of these interests generally require a 45- to 60-day notice. Other assets. Other assets primarily include real estate funds and hedge funds held in the asset portfolio of our U.S. defined benefit pension plans. We are one of approximately 400 employers that contribute to the Co-op Retirement Plan ("Co-op Plan"), which is a defined benefit plan constituting a "multiple employer plan" under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, and a "multiemployer plan" under the accounting standards. The risks of participating in these multiemployer plans are different from single-employer plans in the following aspects: • Assets contributed to the multiemployer plan by one employer may be used to provide benefits to employees of other participating employers; • If a participating employer stops contributing to the plan, the unfunded obligations of the plan may be borne by the remaining participating employers; and • If we choose to stop participating in the multiemployer plan, we may be required to pay the plan an amount based on the underfunded status of the plan, referred to as a withdrawal liability. The withdrawal liability associated with the multiemployer plan was approximately $32.0 million as of August 31, 2021. Our participation in the Co-op Plan for the years ended August 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019, is outlined in the table below: Contributions of CHS (Dollars in thousands) Plan Name EIN/Plan Number 2021 2020 2019 Surcharge Imposed Expiration Date of Collective Bargaining Agreement Co-op Retirement Plan 01-0689331 / 001 $ 1,172 $ 1,455 $ 1,712 N/A N/A Our contributions for the years stated above did not represent more than 5% of total contributions to the Co-op Plan as indicated in the Co-op Plan's most recently available annual report (Form 5500). Provisions of the Pension Protection Act of 2006 ("PPA") do not apply to the Co-op Plan because there is a special exemption for cooperative plans if the plan is maintained by more than one employer and at least 85% of the employers are rural cooperatives or cooperative organizations owned by agricultural producers. In the Co-op Plan, a "zone status" determination is not required, and therefore not determined. In addition, the accumulated benefit obligations and plan assets are not determined or allocated separately by individual employers. The most recent financial statements available in 2021 and 2020 are for the Co-op Plan's year-end at March 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively. In total, the Co-op Plan was at least 80% funded on those dates based on the total plan assets and accumulated benefit obligations. Because the provisions of the PPA do not apply to the Co-op Plan, funding improvement plans and surcharges are not applicable. Future contribution requirements are determined each year as part of the actuarial valuation of the plan and may change as a result of plan experience. In addition to the contributions to the Co-op Plan listed above, total contributions to individually insignificant multi-employer pension plans were immaterial in fiscal 2021, 2020 and 2019. We have other contributory defined contribution plans covering substantially all employees. Total contributions by us to these plans were $30.1 million, $34.5 million and $31.0 million, for the years ended August 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019, respectively.

Segment Reporting

Segment Reporting	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2021
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Segment Reporting	Segment Reporting We are an integrated agricultural cooperative, providing grain, foods and energy resources to businesses and consumers on a global basis. We provide a wide variety of products and services, from initial agricultural inputs such as fuels, farm supplies, crop nutrients and crop protection products, to agricultural outputs that include grains and oilseeds, processed grains and oilseeds, renewable fuels and food products. We define our operating segments in accordance with ASC Topic 280, Segment Reporting , to reflect the manner in which our chief operating decision maker, our Chief Executive Officer, evaluates performance and allocates resources in managing the business. We have aggregated those operating segments into four reportable segments: Energy, Ag, Nitrogen Production and Foods. Our Energy segment produces and provides primarily for the wholesale distribution of petroleum products and transportation of those products. Our Ag segment purchases and further processes or resells grains and oilseeds originated by our country operations business, by our member cooperatives and by third parties; serves as a wholesaler and retailer of crop inputs; and produces and markets ethanol. Our Nitrogen Production segment consists of our equity method investment in CF Nitrogen and allocated expenses, which entitles us, pursuant to a supply agreement that we entered with CF Nitrogen, to purchase up to a specified quantity of granular urea and UAN annually from CF Nitrogen. Our Foods segment consists of our equity method investment in Ventura Foods and allocated expenses. Prior to August 31, 2021, Ventura Foods was reported as a component of Corporate and Other. Reported segment results and balances prior to August 31, 2021, have been recast to reflect the addition of the Foods segment. There were no changes to the composition of our Energy, Ag or Nitrogen Production segments as a result of the addition of the Foods segment. Corporate and Other represents our financing and hedging businesses, which primarily consists of a U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission-regulated futures commission merchant ("FCM") for commodities hedging and financial services related to crop production. Our nonconsolidated investment in Ardent Mills is also included in our Corporate and Other category. Corporate administrative expenses and interest are allocated to each reportable segment, along with Corporate and Other, based on direct use for services, such as information technology and legal, and other factors or considerations relevant to the costs incurred. Many of our business activities are highly seasonal and our operating results vary throughout the year. For example, in our Ag segment, our country operations business generally experiences higher volumes and revenues during the fall harvest and spring planting seasons, which generally correspond to our first and third fiscal quarters, respectively. Additionally, our agronomy business generally experiences higher volumes and revenues during the spring planting season. Our global grain and processing operations are subject to fluctuations in volume and revenues based on producer harvests, world grain prices, demand and international trade relationships. Our Energy segment generally experiences higher volumes and revenues in certain operating areas, such as refined products, in the spring, summer and early fall when gasoline and diesel fuel use by agricultural producers is highest and is subject to global supply and demand forces. Other energy products, such as propane, generally experience higher volumes and revenues during the winter heating and fall crop-drying seasons. Our revenues, assets and cash flows can be significantly affected by global market prices for commodities such as petroleum products, natural gas, grains, oilseeds, crop nutrients and flour. Changes in market prices for commodities that we purchase without a corresponding change in the selling prices of those products can affect revenues and operating earnings. Commodity prices are affected by a wide range of factors beyond our control, including the weather, crop damage due to plant disease or insects, drought, availability and adequacy of supply, availability of a reliable rail and river transportation networks, outbreaks of disease, government regulations and policies, global trade disputes, and general political and economic conditions. While our revenues and operating results are derived primarily from businesses and operations that are wholly-owned or subsidiaries and limited liability companies in which we have a controlling interest, a portion of our business operations are conducted through companies in which we hold ownership interests of 50% or less or do not control the operations. We account for these investments primarily using the equity method of accounting, wherein we record our proportionate share of income or loss reported by the entity as equity income from investments, without consolidating the revenues and expenses of the entity in our Consolidated Statements of Operations. In our Nitrogen Production segment, this consists of our approximate 10% membership interest (based on product tons) in CF Nitrogen. In our Foods segment, this consists of our 50% ownership in Ventura Foods. In Corporate and Other, this principally includes our 12% ownership in Ardent Mills. See Note 6, Investments , for more information related to CF Nitrogen, Ventura Foods and Ardent Mills. Reconciling amounts represent the elimination of revenues between segments. Such transactions are executed at market prices to more accurately evaluate the profitability of the individual business segments. Segment information for the years ended August 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019, is presented in the tables below. Energy Ag Nitrogen Production Foods Corporate Reconciling Total Year ended August 31, 2021 (Dollars in thousands) Revenues, including intersegment revenues $ 6,812,478 $ 32,058,064 $ — $ — $ 46,476 $ (468,985) $ 38,448,033 Intersegment revenues (437,217) (22,722) — — (9,046) 468,985 — Revenues, net of intersegment revenues $ 6,375,261 $ 32,035,342 $ — $ — $ 37,430 $ — $ 38,448,033 Operating earnings (loss) (15,775) 265,362 (35,432) (10,617) 2,259 205,797 Interest expense 1,113 65,099 44,461 — 1,804 (7,912) 104,565 Other income (2,819) (47,452) (2,489) — (14,711) 7,912 (59,559) Equity income from investments (3,473) (50,381) (198,439) (78,519) (23,717) (354,529) Income before income taxes $ (10,596) $ 298,096 $ 121,035 $ 67,902 $ 38,883 $ — $ 515,320 Capital expenditures 112,160 148,770 — — 56,864 — 317,794 Depreciation and amortization 245,273 182,210 — — 34,247 — 461,730 Total assets as of August 31, 2021 4,286,677 7,451,559 2,683,652 388,612 2,765,775 — 17,576,275 Energy Ag Nitrogen Production Foods Corporate Reconciling Total Year ended August 31, 2020 (Dollars in thousands) Revenues, including intersegment revenues $ 5,820,154 $ 22,940,712 $ — $ — $ 55,567 $ (410,068) $ 28,406,365 Intersegment revenues (389,020) (14,613) — — (6,435) 410,068 — Revenues, net of intersegment revenues $ 5,431,134 $ 22,926,099 $ — $ — $ 49,132 $ — $ 28,406,365 Operating earnings (loss) 219,861 82,543 (33,497) (9,847) 18,205 — 277,265 Interest expense 308 71,682 45,255 — 11,806 (12,074) 116,977 Other income (3,005) (35,560) (2,635) — (10,749) 12,074 (39,875) Equity income from investments (2,759) (7,303) (127,954) (34,026) (14,673) — (186,715) Income before income taxes $ 225,317 $ 53,724 $ 51,837 $ 24,179 $ 31,821 $ — $ 386,878 Capital expenditures 175,169 158,903 — — 84,287 — 418,359 Depreciation and amortization 245,983 196,510 — — 34,882 — 477,375 Total assets as of August 31, 2020 4,447,526 6,325,857 2,681,616 381,351 2,157,597 — 15,993,947 Energy Ag Nitrogen Production Foods Corporate Reconciling Total Year ended August 31, 2019 (Dollars in thousands) Revenues, including intersegment revenues $ 7,581,450 $ 24,736,425 $ — $ — $ 68,710 $ (486,132) $ 31,900,453 Intersegment revenues (462,374) (16,353) — — (7,405) 486,132 — Revenues, net of intersegment revenues $ 7,119,076 $ 24,720,072 $ — $ — $ 61,305 $ — $ 31,900,453 Operating earnings (loss) 615,662 65,181 (35,046) (8,912) 22,717 — 659,602 Interest expense 5,719 101,386 55,226 — 11,684 (6,950) 167,065 Other income (5,548) (74,774) (2,769) — (10,168) 6,950 (86,309) Equity income from investments (2,697) (4,447) (160,373) (51,608) (17,630) — (236,755) Income before income taxes $ 618,188 $ 43,016 $ 72,870 $ 42,696 $ 38,831 $ — $ 815,601 Capital expenditures 268,877 110,197 — — 64,142 — 443,216 Depreciation and amortization 233,624 208,294 — — 31,293 — 473,211 We have international sales, which are predominantly in our Ag segment. The following table presents our sales, based on the geographic location of the subsidiary making the sale, for the years ended August 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019: 2021 2020 2019 (Dollars in thousands) North America (a) $ 36,540,178 $ 25,360,077 $ 27,896,269 South America 242,848 1,559,380 2,027,020 Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) 955,605 774,068 895,472 Asia Pacific (APAC) 709,402 712,840 1,081,692 Total $ 38,448,033 $ 28,406,365 $ 31,900,453 (a) Revenues in North America are substantially all attributed to revenues from the United States. Long-lived assets include our property, plant and equipment, finance lease assets and capitalized major maintenance costs. The following table presents long-lived assets by geographical region based on physical location: 2021 2020 (Dollars in thousands) United States $ 4,944,574 $ 5,121,315 International 62,072 65,134 Total $ 5,006,646 $ 5,186,449

Derivative Financial Instrument

Derivative Financial Instruments and Hedging Activities	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2021
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
Derivative Financial Instruments and Hedging Activities	The following tables present the gross fair values of derivative assets, derivative liabilities and margin deposits (cash collateral) recorded on our Consolidated Balance Sheets, along with related amounts permitted to be offset in accordance with U.S. GAAP. Although we have certain netting arrangements for our exchange-traded futures and options contracts and certain OTC contracts, we have elected to report our derivative instruments on a gross basis on our Consolidated Balance Sheets under ASC Topic 210-20, Balance Sheet - Offsetting . August 31, 2021 Amounts Not Offset on the Consolidated Balance Sheet but Eligible for Offsetting Gross Amounts Recognized Cash Collateral Derivative Instruments Net Amounts (Dollars in thousands) Derivative Assets Commodity derivatives $ 532,832 $ — $ 4,174 $ 528,658 Foreign exchange derivatives 19,429 — 5,582 13,847 Embedded derivative asset 16,488 — — 16,488 Total $ 568,749 $ — $ 9,756 $ 558,993 Derivative Liabilities Commodity derivatives $ 444,861 $ 2,485 $ 4,174 $ 438,202 Foreign exchange derivatives 8,506 — 5,582 2,924 Total $ 453,367 $ 2,485 $ 9,756 $ 441,126 August 31, 2020 Amounts Not Offset on the Consolidated Balance Sheet but Eligible for Offsetting Gross Amounts Recognized Cash Collateral Derivative Instruments Net Amounts (Dollars in thousands) Derivative Assets Commodity derivatives $ 327,493 $ — $ 2,980 $ 324,513 Foreign exchange derivatives 11,809 — 9,385 2,424 Embedded derivative asset 18,998 — — 18,998 Total $ 358,300 $ — $ 12,365 $ 345,935 Derivative Liabilities Commodity derivatives $ 343,343 $ 956 $ 5,578 $ 336,809 Foreign exchange derivatives 69,466 — 9,385 60,081 Total $ 412,809 $ 956 $ 14,963 $ 396,890 Derivative assets and liabilities with maturities of less than 12 months are recorded in other current assets and other current liabilities, respectively, on our Consolidated Balance Sheets. Derivative assets and liabilities with maturities greater than 12 months are recorded in other assets and other liabilities, respectively, on our Consolidated Balance Sheets. The amount of long-term derivative assets recorded on our Consolidated Balance Sheet at August 31, 2021 and 2020, was $21.6 million and $21.2 million, respectively. The amount of long-term derivative liabilities recorded on our Consolidated Balance Sheet at August 31, 2021 and 2020, was $4.8 million and $5.4 million, respectively. The majority of our derivative instruments have not been designated as hedging instruments. The following table sets forth the pretax gains (losses) on derivatives not accounted for as hedging instruments that have been included in our Consolidated Statements of Operations for the years ended August 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019: Derivative Type Location of 2021 2020 2019 (Dollars in thousands) Commodity derivatives Cost of goods sold $ (971,581) $ 89,248 $ 125,323 Foreign exchange derivatives Cost of goods sold 25,277 (184,692) 4,228 Foreign exchange derivatives Marketing, general and administrative expenses 1,105 (2,986) (1,229) Interest rate derivatives Interest expense — (1,226) — Embedded derivative Other income 2,489 2,634 2,769 Total $ (942,710) $ (97,022) $ 131,091 Commodity Contracts When we enter into a commodity purchase or sales commitment, we incur risks related to price changes and performance, including delivery, quality, quantity and shipment period. In the event that market prices decrease, we are exposed to risk of loss for the market value of inventory and purchase contracts with fixed- or partially fixed-prices. Conversely, we are exposed to risk of loss on our fixed- or partially fixed-price sales contracts in the event that market prices increase. Our use of hedging reduces exposure to price volatility by protecting against adverse short-term price movements but also limits the benefits of favorable short-term price movements. To reduce the price risk associated with fixed-price commitments, we generally enter into commodity derivative contracts, to the extent practical, to achieve a net commodity position within the formal position limits we have established and deemed prudent for each commodity. These contracts are primarily transacted through our FCM on regulated commodity futures exchanges, but may include over-the-counter derivative instruments when deemed appropriate. These contracts are recorded at fair values based on quotes listed on regulated commodity exchanges or the market prices of the underlying products listed on the exchanges, except that certain contracts are accounted for as normal purchase and normal sales transactions. For commodities where there is no liquid derivative contract, risk is managed through the use of forward sales contracts, other pricing arrangements and, to some extent, futures contracts in highly correlated commodities. These contracts are economic hedges of price risk, but are not designated as hedging instruments for accounting purposes. Unrealized gains and losses on these contracts are recognized in cost of goods sold in our Consolidated Statements of Operations. When a futures position is established, initial margin must be deposited with the applicable exchange or broker. The amount of margin required varies by commodity and is set by the applicable exchange at its sole discretion. If the market price relative to a short futures position increases, an additional margin deposit would be required. Similarly, a margin deposit would be required if the market price relative to a long futures position decreases. Conversely, if the market price increases relative to a long futures position or decreases relative to a short futures position, margin deposits may be returned by the applicable exchange or broker. Our policy is to manage our commodity price risk exposure according to internal policies and in alignment with our tolerance for risk. It is our policy that our profitability should come from operations, primarily derived from margins on products sold and grain merchandised, not from hedging transactions. At any one time, inventory and purchase contracts for delivery to us may be substantial. We have risk management policies and procedures that include established net physical position limits. These limits are defined for each commodity and business unit, and business units may include both trader and management limits as appropriate. The limits policy is overseen at a high level by our corporate compliance team, with day-to-day monitoring procedures being implemented within each individual business unit to ensure any limits overage is explained and exposures reduced, or a temporary limit increase is established if needed. The position limits are reviewed at least annually with our senior leadership and Board of Directors. We monitor current market conditions and may expand or reduce our net position limits or procedures in response to changes in those conditions. The use of hedging instruments does not protect against nonperformance by counterparties to cash contracts. We evaluate counterparty exposure by reviewing contracts and adjusting the values to reflect potential nonperformance. Risk of nonperformance by counterparties includes the inability to perform because of a counterparty's financial condition and the risk that the counterparty will refuse to perform on a contract during periods of price fluctuations where contract prices are significantly different than the current market prices. We manage these risks by entering into fixed-price purchase and sales contracts with preapproved producers and by establishing appropriate limits for individual suppliers. Fixed-price contracts are entered into with customers of acceptable creditworthiness, as internally evaluated. Regarding our use of derivatives, we transact in exchange traded instruments or enter into over-the-counter derivatives that primarily clear through our FCM, which limits our counterparty exposure relative to hedging activities. Historically, we have not experienced significant events of nonperformance on open contracts. Accordingly, we only adjust the estimated fair values of specifically identified contracts for nonperformance. Although we have established policies and procedures, we make no assurances that historical nonperformance experience will carry forward to future periods. As of August 31, 2021 and 2020, we had outstanding commodity futures and options contracts that were used as economic hedges, as well as fixed-price forward contracts related to physical purchases and sales of commodities. The table below presents the notional volumes for all outstanding commodity contracts: 2021 2020 Derivative Type Long Short Long Short (Units in thousands) Grain and oilseed (bushels) 666,726 851,582 664,673 892,303 Energy products (barrels) 9,881 7,656 10,028 6,570 Processed grain and oilseed (tons) 559 3,418 657 3,304 Crop nutrients (tons) 66 12 74 127 Ocean freight (metric tons) 210 — 1,140 95 Foreign Exchange Contracts We conduct a substantial portion of our business in U.S. dollars, but we are exposed to risks relating to foreign currency fluctuations primarily due to global grain marketing transactions in South America, the Asia Pacific region and Europe, and purchases of products from Canada. We use foreign currency derivative instruments to mitigate the impact of exchange rate fluctuations. Although CHS has some risk exposure relating to foreign currency transactions, a larger impact with exchange rate fluctuations is the ability of foreign buyers to purchase U.S. agricultural products and the competitiveness of U.S. agricultural products compared to the same products offered by alternative sources of world supply. The notional amount of our foreign exchange derivative contracts was $1.2 billion as of both August 31, 2021 and 2020. Embedded Derivative Asset Under the terms of our strategic investment in CF Nitrogen, if the CF Industries credit rating is reduced below certain levels by two of three specified credit ratings agencies, we are entitled to receive a nonrefundable annual payment of $5.0 million from CF Industries. These payments will continue on an annual basis until the date the CF Industries credit rating is upgraded to or above certain levels by two of the three specified credit ratings agencies or February 1, 2026, whichever is earlier. During fiscal 2021, fiscal 2020 and fiscal 2019, the CF Industries credit rating was below the specified levels and we received an annual payment of $5.0 million from CF Industries. Gains totaling $2.5 million, $2.6 million and $2.8 million were recognized in other income in our Consolidated Statements of Operations during fiscal 2021, fiscal 2020 and fiscal 2019, respectively. The fair value of the embedded derivative asset recorded on our Consolidated Balance Sheet as of August 31, 2021, was equal to $16.5 million. The current and long-term portions of the embedded derivative asset are included in other current assets and other assets on our Consolidated Balance Sheet, respectively. See Note 16, Fair Value Measurements , for additional information regarding the valuation of the embedded derivative asset. Derivatives Designated as Cash Flow or Fair Value Hedging Strategies Fair Value Hedges During the year ended August 31, 2020, we exited all our interest rate swaps resulting in a $16.4 million gain, which is being amortized over the life of the fixed-rate debt for which the swaps had previously been designated as fair value hedges, through fiscal 2025. Our objective in entering into these transactions was to offset changes in the fair value of the debt associated with the risk of variability in the three-month U.S. dollar LIBOR interest rate, in essence converting the fixed-rate debt to variable-rate debt. Under these interest rate swaps, we received fixed-rate interest payments and made interest payments based on the three-month LIBOR. Offsetting changes in the fair values of both the swap instruments and the hedged debt were recorded contemporaneously each period and only created an impact to earnings to the extent the hedge was ineffective. The following table sets forth the pretax gains (losses) on derivatives accounted for as hedging instruments that have been included in our Consolidated Statements of Operations for the years ended August 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019: Gain (Loss) on Fair Value Hedging Relationships Location of 2021 2020 2019 (Dollars in thousands) Interest rate swaps Interest expense $ — $ (1,897) $ 21,158 Hedged item Interest expense — 1,897 (21,158) Total $ — $ — $ — Cash Flow Hedges Certain pay-fixed, receive-variable, cash-settled swaps are designated as cash flow hedges of future crude oil purchases in our Energy segment. We also designate certain pay-variable, receive-fixed, cash-settled swaps as cash flow hedges of future refined product sales. These hedging instruments and the related hedged items are exposed to significant market price risk and potential volatility. As part of our risk management strategy, we look to hedge a portion of our expected future crude oil needs and the resulting refined product output based on prevailing futures prices, management's expectations about future commodity price changes and our risk appetite. We may also elect to dedesignate certain derivative instruments previously designated as cash flow hedges as part of our risk management strategy. Amounts recorded in other comprehensive income for these dedesignated derivative instruments remain in other comprehensive income and are recognized in earnings in the period in which the underlying transactions affect earnings. As of August 31, 2021 and 2020, the aggregate notional amount of cash flow hedges was 2.7 million and 9.7 million barrels, respectively. The following table presents the fair value of our commodity derivative instruments designated as cash flow hedges and the line items on our Consolidated Balance Sheets in which they are recorded as of August 31, 2021 and 2020: Derivative Assets Derivative Liabilities Balance Sheet Location 2021 2020 Balance Sheet Location 2021 2020 (Dollars in thousands) (Dollars in thousands) Other current assets $ 11,874 $ 34,052 Other current liabilities $ 1,001 $ 8,821 The following table presents the pretax gains (losses) recorded in other comprehensive income relating to cash flow hedges for the years ended August 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019: 2021 2020 2019 (Dollars in thousands) Commodity derivatives $ (7,824) $ (2,596) $ 27,650 The following table presents the pretax gains relating to our existing cash flow hedges that were reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss into our Consolidated Statements of Operations for the years ended August 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019: Location of 2021 2020 2019 (Dollars in thousands) Commodity derivatives Cost of goods sold $ 21,262 $ 23,807 $ 11,497
Derivatives and Fair Value	Note 15 Derivative Financial Instruments and Hedging Activities We enter into various derivative instruments to manage our exposure to movements primarily associated with agricultural and energy commodity prices and, to a lesser degree, foreign currency exchange rates and interest rates. Except for certain interest rate swaps and certain cash-settled swaps related to future crude oil purchases and refined product sales, which are accounted for as fair value hedges and cash flow hedges, respectively, our derivative instruments represent economic hedges of price risk for which hedge accounting under ASC Topic 815 is not applied. Rather, the derivative instruments are recorded on our Consolidated Balance Sheets at fair value with changes in fair value being recorded directly to earnings, primarily within cost of goods sold in our Consolidated Statements of Operations. See Note 16, Fair Value Measurements, for additional information. The majority of our exchange traded agricultural commodity futures are settled daily through CHS Hedging, LLC, our wholly-owned futures commission merchant. Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments The following tables present the gross fair values of derivative assets, derivative liabilities and margin deposits (cash collateral) recorded on our Consolidated Balance Sheets, along with related amounts permitted to be offset in accordance with U.S. GAAP. Although we have certain netting arrangements for our exchange-traded futures and options contracts and certain OTC contracts, we have elected to report our derivative instruments on a gross basis on our Consolidated Balance Sheets under ASC Topic 210-20, Balance Sheet - Offsetting . August 31, 2021 Amounts Not Offset on the Consolidated Balance Sheet but Eligible for Offsetting Gross Amounts Recognized Cash Collateral Derivative Instruments Net Amounts (Dollars in thousands) Derivative Assets Commodity derivatives $ 532,832 $ — $ 4,174 $ 528,658 Foreign exchange derivatives 19,429 — 5,582 13,847 Embedded derivative asset 16,488 — — 16,488 Total $ 568,749 $ — $ 9,756 $ 558,993 Derivative Liabilities Commodity derivatives $ 444,861 $ 2,485 $ 4,174 $ 438,202 Foreign exchange derivatives 8,506 — 5,582 2,924 Total $ 453,367 $ 2,485 $ 9,756 $ 441,126 August 31, 2020 Amounts Not Offset on the Consolidated Balance Sheet but Eligible for Offsetting Gross Amounts Recognized Cash Collateral Derivative Instruments Net Amounts (Dollars in thousands) Derivative Assets Commodity derivatives $ 327,493 $ — $ 2,980 $ 324,513 Foreign exchange derivatives 11,809 — 9,385 2,424 Embedded derivative asset 18,998 — — 18,998 Total $ 358,300 $ — $ 12,365 $ 345,935 Derivative Liabilities Commodity derivatives $ 343,343 $ 956 $ 5,578 $ 336,809 Foreign exchange derivatives 69,466 — 9,385 60,081 Total $ 412,809 $ 956 $ 14,963 $ 396,890 Derivative assets and liabilities with maturities of less than 12 months are recorded in other current assets and other current liabilities, respectively, on our Consolidated Balance Sheets. Derivative assets and liabilities with maturities greater than 12 months are recorded in other assets and other liabilities, respectively, on our Consolidated Balance Sheets. The amount of long-term derivative assets recorded on our Consolidated Balance Sheet at August 31, 2021 and 2020, was $21.6 million and $21.2 million, respectively. The amount of long-term derivative liabilities recorded on our Consolidated Balance Sheet at August 31, 2021 and 2020, was $4.8 million and $5.4 million, respectively. The majority of our derivative instruments have not been designated as hedging instruments. The following table sets forth the pretax gains (losses) on derivatives not accounted for as hedging instruments that have been included in our Consolidated Statements of Operations for the years ended August 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019: Derivative Type Location of 2021 2020 2019 (Dollars in thousands) Commodity derivatives Cost of goods sold $ (971,581) $ 89,248 $ 125,323 Foreign exchange derivatives Cost of goods sold 25,277 (184,692) 4,228 Foreign exchange derivatives Marketing, general and administrative expenses 1,105 (2,986) (1,229) Interest rate derivatives Interest expense — (1,226) — Embedded derivative Other income 2,489 2,634 2,769 Total $ (942,710) $ (97,022) $ 131,091 Commodity Contracts When we enter into a commodity purchase or sales commitment, we incur risks related to price changes and performance, including delivery, quality, quantity and shipment period. In the event that market prices decrease, we are exposed to risk of loss for the market value of inventory and purchase contracts with fixed- or partially fixed-prices. Conversely, we are exposed to risk of loss on our fixed- or partially fixed-price sales contracts in the event that market prices increase. Our use of hedging reduces exposure to price volatility by protecting against adverse short-term price movements but also limits the benefits of favorable short-term price movements. To reduce the price risk associated with fixed-price commitments, we generally enter into commodity derivative contracts, to the extent practical, to achieve a net commodity position within the formal position limits we have established and deemed prudent for each commodity. These contracts are primarily transacted through our FCM on regulated commodity futures exchanges, but may include over-the-counter derivative instruments when deemed appropriate. These contracts are recorded at fair values based on quotes listed on regulated commodity exchanges or the market prices of the underlying products listed on the exchanges, except that certain contracts are accounted for as normal purchase and normal sales transactions. For commodities where there is no liquid derivative contract, risk is managed through the use of forward sales contracts, other pricing arrangements and, to some extent, futures contracts in highly correlated commodities. These contracts are economic hedges of price risk, but are not designated as hedging instruments for accounting purposes. Unrealized gains and losses on these contracts are recognized in cost of goods sold in our Consolidated Statements of Operations. When a futures position is established, initial margin must be deposited with the applicable exchange or broker. The amount of margin required varies by commodity and is set by the applicable exchange at its sole discretion. If the market price relative to a short futures position increases, an additional margin deposit would be required. Similarly, a margin deposit would be required if the market price relative to a long futures position decreases. Conversely, if the market price increases relative to a long futures position or decreases relative to a short futures position, margin deposits may be returned by the applicable exchange or broker. Our policy is to manage our commodity price risk exposure according to internal policies and in alignment with our tolerance for risk. It is our policy that our profitability should come from operations, primarily derived from margins on products sold and grain merchandised, not from hedging transactions. At any one time, inventory and purchase contracts for delivery to us may be substantial. We have risk management policies and procedures that include established net physical position limits. These limits are defined for each commodity and business unit, and business units may include both trader and management limits as appropriate. The limits policy is overseen at a high level by our corporate compliance team, with day-to-day monitoring procedures being implemented within each individual business unit to ensure any limits overage is explained and exposures reduced, or a temporary limit increase is established if needed. The position limits are reviewed at least annually with our senior leadership and Board of Directors. We monitor current market conditions and may expand or reduce our net position limits or procedures in response to changes in those conditions. The use of hedging instruments does not protect against nonperformance by counterparties to cash contracts. We evaluate counterparty exposure by reviewing contracts and adjusting the values to reflect potential nonperformance. Risk of nonperformance by counterparties includes the inability to perform because of a counterparty's financial condition and the risk that the counterparty will refuse to perform on a contract during periods of price fluctuations where contract prices are significantly different than the current market prices. We manage these risks by entering into fixed-price purchase and sales contracts with preapproved producers and by establishing appropriate limits for individual suppliers. Fixed-price contracts are entered into with customers of acceptable creditworthiness, as internally evaluated. Regarding our use of derivatives, we transact in exchange traded instruments or enter into over-the-counter derivatives that primarily clear through our FCM, which limits our counterparty exposure relative to hedging activities. Historically, we have not experienced significant events of nonperformance on open contracts. Accordingly, we only adjust the estimated fair values of specifically identified contracts for nonperformance. Although we have established policies and procedures, we make no assurances that historical nonperformance experience will carry forward to future periods. As of August 31, 2021 and 2020, we had outstanding commodity futures and options contracts that were used as economic hedges, as well as fixed-price forward contracts related to physical purchases and sales of commodities. The table below presents the notional volumes for all outstanding commodity contracts: 2021 2020 Derivative Type Long Short Long Short (Units in thousands) Grain and oilseed (bushels) 666,726 851,582 664,673 892,303 Energy products (barrels) 9,881 7,656 10,028 6,570 Processed grain and oilseed (tons) 559 3,418 657 3,304 Crop nutrients (tons) 66 12 74 127 Ocean freight (metric tons) 210 — 1,140 95 Foreign Exchange Contracts We conduct a substantial portion of our business in U.S. dollars, but we are exposed to risks relating to foreign currency fluctuations primarily due to global grain marketing transactions in South America, the Asia Pacific region and Europe, and purchases of products from Canada. We use foreign currency derivative instruments to mitigate the impact of exchange rate fluctuations. Although CHS has some risk exposure relating to foreign currency transactions, a larger impact with exchange rate fluctuations is the ability of foreign buyers to purchase U.S. agricultural products and the competitiveness of U.S. agricultural products compared to the same products offered by alternative sources of world supply. The notional amount of our foreign exchange derivative contracts was $1.2 billion as of both August 31, 2021 and 2020. Embedded Derivative Asset Under the terms of our strategic investment in CF Nitrogen, if the CF Industries credit rating is reduced below certain levels by two of three specified credit ratings agencies, we are entitled to receive a nonrefundable annual payment of $5.0 million from CF Industries. These payments will continue on an annual basis until the date the CF Industries credit rating is upgraded to or above certain levels by two of the three specified credit ratings agencies or February 1, 2026, whichever is earlier. During fiscal 2021, fiscal 2020 and fiscal 2019, the CF Industries credit rating was below the specified levels and we received an annual payment of $5.0 million from CF Industries. Gains totaling $2.5 million, $2.6 million and $2.8 million were recognized in other income in our Consolidated Statements of Operations during fiscal 2021, fiscal 2020 and fiscal 2019, respectively. The fair value of the embedded derivative asset recorded on our Consolidated Balance Sheet as of August 31, 2021, was equal to $16.5 million. The current and long-term portions of the embedded derivative asset are included in other current assets and other assets on our Consolidated Balance Sheet, respectively. See Note 16, Fair Value Measurements , for additional information regarding the valuation of the embedded derivative asset. Derivatives Designated as Cash Flow or Fair Value Hedging Strategies Fair Value Hedges During the year ended August 31, 2020, we exited all our interest rate swaps resulting in a $16.4 million gain, which is being amortized over the life of the fixed-rate debt for which the swaps had previously been designated as fair value hedges, through fiscal 2025. Our objective in entering into these transactions was to offset changes in the fair value of the debt associated with the risk of variability in the three-month U.S. dollar LIBOR interest rate, in essence converting the fixed-rate debt to variable-rate debt. Under these interest rate swaps, we received fixed-rate interest payments and made interest payments based on the three-month LIBOR. Offsetting changes in the fair values of both the swap instruments and the hedged debt were recorded contemporaneously each period and only created an impact to earnings to the extent the hedge was ineffective. The following table sets forth the pretax gains (losses) on derivatives accounted for as hedging instruments that have been included in our Consolidated Statements of Operations for the years ended August 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019: Gain (Loss) on Fair Value Hedging Relationships Location of 2021 2020 2019 (Dollars in thousands) Interest rate swaps Interest expense $ — $ (1,897) $ 21,158 Hedged item Interest expense — 1,897 (21,158) Total $ — $ — $ — Cash Flow Hedges Certain pay-fixed, receive-variable, cash-settled swaps are designated as cash flow hedges of future crude oil purchases in our Energy segment. We also designate certain pay-variable, receive-fixed, cash-settled swaps as cash flow hedges of future refined product sales. These hedging instruments and the related hedged items are exposed to significant market price risk and potential volatility. As part of our risk management strategy, we look to hedge a portion of our expected future crude oil needs and the resulting refined product output based on prevailing futures prices, management's expectations about future commodity price changes and our risk appetite. We may also elect to dedesignate certain derivative instruments previously designated as cash flow hedges as part of our risk management strategy. Amounts recorded in other comprehensive income for these dedesignated derivative instruments remain in other comprehensive income and are recognized in earnings in the period in which the underlying transactions affect earnings. As of August 31, 2021 and 2020, the aggregate notional amount of cash flow hedges was 2.7 million and 9.7 million barrels, respectively. The following table presents the fair value of our commodity derivative instruments designated as cash flow hedges and the line items on our Consolidated Balance Sheets in which they are recorded as of August 31, 2021 and 2020: Derivative Assets Derivative Liabilities Balance Sheet Location 2021 2020 Balance Sheet Location 2021 2020 (Dollars in thousands) (Dollars in thousands) Other current assets $ 11,874 $ 34,052 Other current liabilities $ 1,001 $ 8,821 The following table presents the pretax gains (losses) recorded in other comprehensive income relating to cash flow hedges for the years ended August 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019: 2021 2020 2019 (Dollars in thousands) Commodity derivatives $ (7,824) $ (2,596) $ 27,650 The following table presents the pretax gains relating to our existing cash flow hedges that were reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss into our Consolidated Statements of Operations for the years ended August 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019: Location of 2021 2020 2019 (Dollars in thousands) Commodity derivatives Cost of goods sold $ 21,262 $ 23,807 $ 11,497

Fair Value Measurements

Fair Value Measurements	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2021
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair Value Measurements	Fair Value Measurements ASC Topic 820, Fair Value Measurement, defines fair value as the price that would be received for an asset or paid to transfer a liability (an exit price) in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants on the measurement date. We determine fair values of derivative instruments and certain other assets, based on the fair value hierarchy established in ASC Topic 820, which requires an entity to maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs when measuring fair value. Observable inputs are inputs that reflect the assumptions market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability based on the best information available in the circumstances. ASC Topic 820 describes three levels within its hierarchy that may be used to measure fair value, and our assessment of relevant instruments within those levels is as follows: Level 1. Values are based on unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities. These assets and liabilities may include exchange-traded derivative instruments, rabbi trust investments, deferred compensation investments and available-for-sale investments. Level 2. Values are based on quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets, quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active, or other inputs that are observable or can be corroborated by observable market data for substantially the full term of the assets or liabilities. These assets and liabilities include interest rate, foreign exchange and commodity swaps; forward commodity contracts with a fixed price component; and other OTC derivatives whose values are determined with inputs that are based on exchange traded prices, adjusted for location-specific inputs that are primarily observable in the market or can be derived principally from, or corroborated by, observable market data. Level 3. Values are generated from unobservable inputs that are supported by little or no market activity and that are a significant component of the fair value of the assets or liabilities. These unobservable inputs would reflect our own estimates of assumptions that market participants would use in pricing related assets or liabilities. Valuation techniques might include the use of pricing models, discounted cash flow models or similar techniques. The following tables present assets and liabilities, included on our Consolidated Balance Sheets, that are recognized at fair value on a recurring basis and indicate the fair value hierarchy utilized to determine these fair values. Assets and liabilities are classified in their entirety based on the lowest level of input that is a significant component of the fair value measurement. The lowest level of input is considered Level 3. Our assessment of the significance of a particular input to the fair value measurement requires judgment and may affect the classification of fair value assets and liabilities within the fair value hierarchy levels. Recurring fair value measurements at August 31, 2021 and 2020, are as follows: 2021 Quoted Prices in Active Markets Significant Other Observable Significant Total (Dollars in thousands) Assets Commodity derivatives $ 2,453 $ 542,253 $ — $ 544,706 Foreign currency derivatives — 19,429 — 19,429 Deferred compensation assets 51,940 — — 51,940 Embedded derivative asset — 16,488 — 16,488 Segregated investments and marketable securities 99,837 — — 99,837 Other assets 6,052 — — 6,052 Total $ 160,282 $ 578,170 $ — $ 738,452 Liabilities Commodity derivatives $ 1,615 $ 444,247 $ — $ 445,862 Foreign currency derivatives — 8,506 — 8,506 Total $ 1,615 $ 452,753 $ — $ 454,368 2020 Quoted Prices in Active Markets Significant Other Observable Significant Total (Dollars in thousands) Assets Commodity derivatives $ 5,762 $ 355,783 $ — $ 361,545 Foreign currency derivatives — 11,523 — 11,523 Deferred compensation assets 47,669 — — 47,669 Embedded derivative asset — 18,998 — 18,998 Segregated investments and marketable securities 85,950 — — 85,950 Other assets 5,276 — — 5,276 Total $ 144,657 $ 386,304 $ — $ 530,961 Liabilities Commodity derivatives $ 6,037 $ 346,126 $ — $ 352,163 Foreign currency derivatives — 69,467 — 69,467 Total $ 6,037 $ 415,593 $ — $ 421,630 Commodity and foreign currency derivatives. Exchange-traded futures and options contracts are valued based on unadjusted quoted prices in active markets and are classified within Level 1. Our forward commodity purchase and sales contracts with fixed-price components, select ocean freight contracts and other OTC derivatives are determined using inputs that are generally based on exchange traded prices and/or recent market bids and offers, including location-specific adjustments, and are classified within Level 2. Location-specific inputs are driven by local market supply and demand and are generally based on broker or dealer quotations or market transactions in either listed or OTC markets. Changes in the fair values of these contracts are recognized in our Consolidated Statements of Operations as a component of cost of goods sold. Deferred compensation and other assets. Our deferred compensation investments consist primarily of rabbi trust assets that are valued based on unadjusted quoted prices on active exchanges and classified within Level 1. Changes in the fair values of these other assets are primarily recognized in our Consolidated Statements of Operations as a component of marketing, general and administrative expenses. Embedded derivative asset. The embedded derivative asset relates to contingent payments inherent to our investment in CF Nitrogen. The inputs used in the fair value measurement include the probability of future upgrades and downgrades of the CF Industries credit rating based on historical credit rating movements of other public companies and the discount rates applied to potential annual payments based on applicable historical and current yield coupon rates. Based on these observable inputs, our fair value measurement is classified within Level 2. See Note 15, Derivative Financial Instruments and Hedging Activities , for additional information. Segregated investments and marketable securities. Our segregated investments and marketable securities are comprised of investments in various government agencies and U.S. Treasury securities, which are valued using quoted market prices and classified within Level 1.

Commitments and Contingencies

Commitments and Contingencies	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2021
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Commitments and Contingencies	Commitments and Contingencies Environmental We are required to comply with various environmental laws and regulations incidental to our normal business operations. To meet our compliance requirements, we establish reserves for future costs of remediation associated with identified issues that are both probable and can be reasonably estimated. Estimates of environmental costs are based on current available facts, existing technology, undiscounted site-specific costs and currently enacted laws and regulations and are included in cost of goods sold and marketing, general and administrative expenses in our Consolidated Statements of Operations. Recoveries, if any, are recorded in the period in which recovery is received. Liabilities are monitored and adjusted as new facts or changes in law or technology occur. The resolution of any such matters may affect consolidated net income for any fiscal period; however, we currently believe any resulting liabilities, individually or in the aggregate, will not have a material effect on our consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows during any fiscal year. Other Litigation and Claims We are involved as a defendant in various lawsuits, claims and disputes, which are in the normal course of our business. The resolution of any such matters may affect consolidated net income for any fiscal period; however, we currently believe any resulting liabilities, individually or in the aggregate, will not have a material effect on our consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows during any fiscal year. Guarantees We are a guarantor for lines of credit and performance obligations of related, nonconsolidated companies. Our bank covenants allow maximum guarantees of $1.0 billion, of which $153.7 million were outstanding on August 31, 2021. We have collateral for a portion of these contingent obligations. We have not recorded a liability related to the contingent obligations as we do not expect to pay out any cash related to them, and the fair values are considered immaterial. The underlying loans to the counterparties for which we provide these guarantees are current as of August 31, 2021. Credit Commitments CHS Capital has commitments to extend credit to customers if there is no violation of any condition established in the contracts. As of August 31, 2021, CHS Capital customers have additional available credit of $706.9 million. Unconditional Purchase Obligations Unconditional purchase obligations are commitments to transfer funds in the future for fixed or minimum amounts or quantities of goods or services at fixed or minimum prices. Our long-term unconditional purchase obligations primarily relate to pipeline and grain handling take-or-pay and throughput agreements and are not recorded on our Consolidated Balance Sheets. As of August 31, 2021, minimum future payments required under long-term commitments that are noncancelable and that third parties have used to secure financing for facilities that will provide contracted goods, are as follows: Payments Due by Period Total 2022 2023 2024 2025 2026 Thereafter (Dollars in thousands) Long-term unconditional purchase obligations $ 537,047 $ 83,044 $ 65,918 $ 65,650 $ 60,115 $ 57,951 $ 204,369 Total payments under these arrangements were $81.0 million, $77.6 million and $70.8 million for the years ended August 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019, respectively.

Related Party Transactions

Related Party Transactions	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2021
Related Party Transactions [Abstract]
Related Party Transactions	Related Party Transactions We purchase and sell grain and other agricultural commodity products from certain equity investees, primarily CF Nitrogen, Ventura Foods, Ardent Mills and TEMCO. Sales to and purchases from related parties for the years ended August 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019, respectively, are as follows: 2021 2020 2019 (Dollars in thousands) Sales $ 2,744,482 $ 2,528,921 $ 2,628,670 Purchases 2,682,165 872,819 901,812 Receivables due from and payables due to related parties as of August 31, 2021 and 2020, are as follows: 2021 2020 (Dollars in thousands) Due from related parties $ 40,485 $ 129,397 Due to related parties 90,986 53,602

Leases, Codification Topic 842

Leases, Codification Topic 842	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2021
Leases [Abstract]
lease disclosure	We assess arrangements at inception to determine whether they contain a lease. An arrangement is considered to contain a lease if it conveys the right to control the use of an asset for a period of time in exchange for consideration. The right to control the use of an asset must include both (a) the right to obtain substantially all economic benefits associated with an identified asset and (b) the right to direct how and for what purpose the identified asset is used. Certain service agreements may provide us with the right to use an identified asset; however, most of these arrangements are not considered to represent a lease as we do not control how and for what purpose the identified asset is used. We lease property, plant and equipment used in our operations primarily under operating lease agreements and, to a lesser extent, under finance lease agreements. Our leases are primarily for railcars, equipment, vehicles and office space, many of which contain renewal options and escalation clauses. Renewal options are included as part of the right of use asset and liability when it is reasonably certain that we will exercise the renewal option; however, renewal options are generally not included as we are not reasonably certain to exercise such options. After the adoption of ASC Topic 842, Leases , on September 1, 2019, right of use assets and liabilities for operating and finance leases are recognized at the lease commencement date for leases in excess of 12 months based on the present value of lease payments over the lease term. For measurement and classification of lease agreements, lease and nonlease components are grouped into a single lease component for all asset classes. Variable lease payments are excluded from measurement of right of use assets and liabilities and generally include payments for nonlease components such as maintenance costs, payments for leased assets beyond their noncancelable lease term and payments for other nonlease components such as sales tax. The discount rate used to calculate present value is our collateralized incremental borrowing rate or, if available, the rate implicit in the lease. The incremental borrowing rate is determined for each lease based primarily on its lease term. Certain lease arrangements include rental payments adjusted annually based on changes in an inflation index. Our lease arrangements generally do not contain residual value guarantees or material restrictive covenants. Lease expense is recognized on a straight-line basis over the lease term. The components of lease expense recognized in our Consolidated Statements of Operations as of August 31, 2021 and 2020, are as follows: 2021 2020 (Dollars in thousands) Operating lease expense $ 73,489 $ 71,541 Finance lease expense: Amortization of assets 8,065 8,205 Interest on lease liabilities 938 1,060 Short-term lease expense 16,955 15,991 Variable lease expense 2,300 3,674 Total net lease expense* $ 101,747 $ 100,471 *Income related to sub-lease activity is not material and has been excluded from the table above. Supplemental balance sheet information related to operating and finance leases as of August 31, 2021 and 2020, are as follows: Balance Sheet Location 2021 2020 (Dollars in thousands) Operating leases Assets Operating lease right of use assets Other assets $ 253,451 $ 257,834 Liabilities Current operating lease liabilities Accrued expenses 56,424 57,200 Long-term operating lease liabilities Other liabilities 200,720 203,691 Total operating lease liabilities $ 257,144 $ 260,891 Finance leases Assets Finance lease assets Property, plant and equipment $ 48,625 $ 44,860 Liabilities Current finance lease liabilities Current portion of long-term debt 7,444 7,993 Long-term finance lease liabilities Long-term debt 28,590 23,467 Total finance lease liabilities $ 36,034 $ 31,460 Information related to the lease term and discount rate for operating and finance leases as of August 31, 2021 and 2020, are as follows: 2021 2020 Weighted average remaining lease term (in years) Operating leases 7.9 8.3 Finance leases 10.3 6.0 Weighted average discount rate Operating leases 3.01 % 3.11 % Finance leases 3.50 % 3.33 % Supplemental cash flow and other information related to operating and finance leases as of August 31, 2021 and 2020, are as follows: 2021 2020 (Dollars in thousands) Cash paid for amounts included in measurement of lease liabilities: Operating cash flows from operating leases $ 71,702 $ 71,003 Operating cash flows from finance leases 938 1,060 Financing cash flows from finance leases 8,235 7,949 Supplemental noncash information: Right of use assets obtained in exchange for lease liabilities 43,991 56,461 Right of use asset modifications 27,664 7,333 Maturities of lease liabilities by fiscal year as of August 31, 2021, were as follows: August 31, 2021 Finance Leases Operating Leases (Dollars in thousands) 2022 $ 8,517 $ 66,132 2023 6,979 52,874 2024 4,217 42,666 2025 2,797 31,782 2026 2,387 23,858 Thereafter 19,557 86,654 Total maturities of lease liabilities 44,454 303,966 Less amounts representing interest 8,420 46,822 Present value of future minimum lease payments 36,034 257,144 Less current obligations 7,444 56,424 Long-term obligations $ 28,590 $ 200,720

Schedule II - Valuation and Qua

Schedule II - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts and Reserves	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2021
SEC Schedule, 12-09, Valuation and Qualifying Accounts [Abstract]
Schedule II - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts and Reserves	SCHEDULE II — VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS AND RESERVES Balance at Additions: Deductions: Balance at (Dollars in thousands) Allowances for doubtful accounts 2021 $ 165,540 $ 10,175 $ (31,993) $ 143,722 2020 176,805 3,089 (14,354) 165,540 2019 221,813 57,380 (102,388) 176,805 Valuation allowance for deferred tax assets 2021 $ 219,891 $ 11,700 $ (22,781) $ 208,810 2020 246,344 5,206 (31,659) 219,891 2019 230,374 41,260 (25,290) 246,344 Reserve for supplier advance payments 2021 $ 65,885 $ — $ — $ 65,885 2020 65,885 — — 65,885 2019 110,613 — (44,728) 65,885 *Net of reserve adjustments.

Organization, Basis of Presen_2

Organization, Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2021
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Basis of Presentation	Basis of Presentation The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of CHS and all our subsidiaries and limited liability companies in which we have a controlling interest. The effects of all significant intercompany transactions have been eliminated. The notes to our consolidated financial statements refer to our Energy, Ag, Nitrogen Production and Foods reportable segments, as well as our Corporate and Other category, which represents an aggregation of individually immaterial operating segments. The Nitrogen Production reportable segment consists of our investment in CF Industries Nitrogen, LLC ("CF Nitrogen"), and allocated expenses. The Foods reportable segment met quantitative criteria to become a reportable segment during fiscal 2021 and consists of our investment in Ventura Foods, LLC. ("Ventura Foods"), and allocated expenses. See Note 14, Segment Reporting , for more information.
Use of Estimates	Use of Estimates    The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. We base our estimates on assumptions that are believed to be reasonable, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities. Due to the inherent uncertainty involved in making estimates, actual results could differ from those estimates. We evaluate our estimates and assumptions on an ongoing basis.
Cash and Cash Equivalents	Cash and Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash Cash equivalents include short-term, highly liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less at the date of acquisition. The carrying value of cash and cash equivalents approximates the fair value due to the short-term nature of the instruments. Restricted cash is included in our Consolidated Balance Sheets within other current assets and primarily relates to customer deposits for futures and option contracts associated with regulated commodities held in separate accounts as required under federal and other regulations. Pursuant to the requirements of the Commodity Exchange Act, such funds must be carried in separate accounts that are designated as segregated customer accounts, as applicable. Restricted cash also includes funds held in escrow pursuant to applicable regulations limiting their usage. The following table provides a reconciliation of cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash as reported within our Consolidated Balance Sheets that aggregates to the amount presented in our Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows. August 31, 2021 2020 2019 (Dollars in thousands) Cash and cash equivalents $ 413,159 $ 140,874 $ 211,179 Restricted cash included in other current assets 129,325 76,119 88,496 Total cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash $ 542,484 $ 216,993 $ 299,675
Recent Accounting Pronouncements	Recent Accounting Pronouncements Except for the recent accounting pronouncements described below, other recent accounting pronouncements are not expected to have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements. Adopted In June 2016, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Accounting Standards Update ("ASU") No. 2016-13, Financial Instruments - Credit Losses ("ASC Topic 326"): Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments
Fair Value Measurements	ASC Topic 820, Fair Value Measurement, defines fair value as the price that would be received for an asset or paid to transfer a liability (an exit price) in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants on the measurement date. describes three levels within its hierarchy that may be used to measure fair value, and our assessment of relevant instruments within those levels is as follows: Level 1. Values are based on unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities. These assets and liabilities may include exchange-traded derivative instruments, rabbi trust investments, deferred compensation investments and available-for-sale investments. Level 2. Values are based on quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets, quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active, or other inputs that are observable or can be corroborated by observable market data for substantially the full term of the assets or liabilities. These assets and liabilities include interest rate, foreign exchange and commodity swaps; forward commodity contracts with a fixed price component; and other OTC derivatives whose values are determined with inputs that are based on exchange traded prices, adjusted for location-specific inputs that are primarily observable in the market or can be derived principally from, or corroborated by, observable market data. Level 3. Values are generated from unobservable inputs that are supported by little or no market activity and that are a significant component of the fair value of the assets or liabilities. These unobservable inputs would reflect our own estimates of assumptions that market participants would use in pricing related assets or liabilities. Valuation techniques might include the use of pricing models, discounted cash flow models or similar techniques.
Fair Value of Financial Instruments	Commodity and foreign currency derivatives. Exchange-traded futures and options contracts are valued based on unadjusted quoted prices in active markets and are classified within Level 1. Our forward commodity purchase and sales contracts with fixed-price components, select ocean freight contracts and other OTC derivatives are determined using inputs that are generally based on exchange traded prices and/or recent market bids and offers, including location-specific adjustments, and are classified within Level 2. Location-specific inputs are driven by local market supply and demand and are generally based on broker or dealer quotations or market transactions in either listed or OTC markets. Changes in the fair values of these contracts are recognized in our Consolidated Statements of Operations as a component of cost of goods sold. Deferred compensation and other assets. Our deferred compensation investments consist primarily of rabbi trust assets that are valued based on unadjusted quoted prices on active exchanges and classified within Level 1. Changes in the fair values of these other assets are primarily recognized in our Consolidated Statements of Operations as a component of marketing, general and administrative expenses. Embedded derivative asset. The embedded derivative asset relates to contingent payments inherent to our investment in CF Nitrogen. The inputs used in the fair value measurement include the probability of future upgrades and downgrades of the CF Industries credit rating based on historical credit rating movements of other public companies and the discount rates applied to potential annual payments based on applicable historical and current yield coupon rates. Based on these observable inputs, our fair value measurement is classified within Level 2. See Note 15, Derivative Financial Instruments and Hedging Activities , for additional information. Segregated investments and marketable securities. Our segregated investments and marketable securities are comprised of investments in various government agencies and U.S. Treasury securities, which are valued using quoted market prices and classified within Level 1.
Equity Method Investments	Joint ventures and other investments in which we have significant ownership and influence but not control, are accounted for in our consolidated financial statements using the equity method of accounting. Our significant equity method investments consist of CF Nitrogen, Ventura Foods, Ardent Mills, LLC ("Ardent Mills") and TEMCO, LLC ("TEMCO"), which are summarized below.

Revenue Recognition and Deferre

Revenue Recognition and Deferred Revenue (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2021
Revenue Recognition and Deferred Revenue [Abstract]
Revenue	We provide a wide variety of products and services, from agricultural inputs such as fuels, farm supplies and agronomy products, to agricultural outputs that include grain and oilseed, processed grains and oilseeds and food products, and renewable fuels production and marketing. We primarily conduct our operations and derive revenues within our Energy and Ag segments. Our Energy segment derives its revenues through refining, wholesaling and retailing of petroleum products. Our Ag segment derives its revenues through origination and marketing of grain, including service activities conducted at export terminals; through wholesale agronomy sales of crop nutrient and crop protection products; from sales of soybean meal, soybean refined oil and soyflour products; through production and marketing of renewable fuels; and through retail sales of petroleum and agronomy products, processed sunflowers, and feed and farm supplies. Corporate and Other primarily consists of our financing and hedging businesses. Revenue is recognized when performance obligations under the terms of a contract with a customer are satisfied, which generally occurs when control of the goods has transferred to customers in accordance with the underlying contract. For the majority of our contracts with customers, control transfers to customers at a point in time when goods and/or services have been delivered, as that is generally when legal title, physical possession and risks and rewards of ownership of the goods and/or services transfer to the customer. In limited arrangements, control transfers over time as the customer simultaneously receives and consumes the benefits of the service as we complete our performance obligation(s). Revenue is recognized as the transaction price we expect to be entitled to in exchange for transferring goods or services to a customer, excluding amounts collected on behalf of third parties. For physically settled derivative sales contracts that are outside the scope of the revenue guidance, we recognize revenue when control of the inventory is transferred within the meaning of Accounting Standards Codification ("ASC") Topic 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers ("ASC Topic 606"). Revenues arising from our financing business are recognized in accordance with ASC Topic 470, Debt ("ASC Topic 470") and fall outside the scope of ASC Topic 606. Shipping and Handling Costs Shipping and handling amounts billed to a customer as part of a sales transaction are included in revenues, and the related costs are included in cost of goods sold. Shipping and handling is treated as a fulfillment activity, rather than a promised service, and therefore is not considered a separate performance obligation. Taxes Collected from Customers and Remitted to Governmental Authorities Revenues are recorded net of taxes collected from customers that are remitted to governmental authorities, with the collected taxes recorded as current liabilities until remitted to the relevant government authority. Contract Costs Commissions related to contracts with a duration of less than one year are expensed as incurred. We recognize incremental costs of obtaining contracts as an expense when incurred if the amortization period of the assets we otherwise would have recognized is one year or less. Disaggregation of Revenues The following tables present revenues recognized under ASC Topic 606 disaggregated by reportable segment, as well as the amount of revenues recognized under ASC Topic 815, Derivatives and Hedging ("ASC Topic 815"), and other applicable accounting guidance for the years ended August 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019. Other applicable accounting guidance primarily includes revenues recognized under ASC Topic 470 and ASC Topic 842, Leases ("ASC Topic 842") that fall outside the scope of ASC Topic 606: Year Ended August 31, 2021 Reportable Segment* ASC Topic 606 ASC Topic 815 Other Guidance Total Revenues (Dollars in thousands) Energy $ 5,680,391 $ 694,870 $ — $ 6,375,261 Ag 7,491,484 24,517,033 26,825 32,035,342 Corporate and Other 18,325 — 19,105 37,430 Total revenues $ 13,190,200 $ 25,211,903 $ 45,930 $ 38,448,033 Year Ended August 31, 2020 Reportable Segment* ASC Topic 606 ASC Topic 815 Other Guidance Total Revenues (Dollars in thousands) Energy $ 4,833,003 $ 598,131 $ — $ 5,431,134 Ag 5,963,198 16,901,258 61,643 22,926,099 Corporate and Other 22,903 — 26,229 49,132 Total revenues $ 10,819,104 $ 17,499,389 $ 87,872 $ 28,406,365 Year Ended August 31, 2019 Reportable Segment* ASC Topic 606 ASC Topic 815 Other Guidance Total Revenues (Dollars in thousands) Energy $ 6,393,075 $ 726,001 $ — $ 7,119,076 Ag 6,319,304 18,268,977 131,791 24,720,072 Corporate and Other 20,262 — 41,043 61,305 Total revenues $ 12,732,641 $ 18,994,978 $ 172,834 $ 31,900,453 *Our Nitrogen Production and Foods reportable segments represent equity method investments that record earnings and allocated expenses, but not revenues. Less than 1% of revenues accounted for under ASC Topic 606 included within the tables above are recorded over time and relate primarily to service contracts. Contract Assets and Contract Liabilities Contract assets relate to unbilled amounts arising from goods that have already been transferred to the customer where the right to payment is not conditional on the passage of time. This results in the recognition of an asset, as the amount of revenue recognized at a certain point in time exceeds the amount billed to the customer. Contract assets are recorded in accounts receivable within our Consolidated Balance Sheets and were immaterial as of August 31, 2021 and 2020. Contract liabilities relate to advance payments from customers for goods and services that we have yet to provide. Contract liabilities of $213.9 million and $139.1 million as of August 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively, are recorded within other current liabilities on our Consolidated Balance Sheets. For the years ended August 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019, we recognized revenues of $139.1 million, $194.8 million and $170.7 million related to contract liabilities, respectively. These amounts were included in the other current liabilities balance at the beginning of the respective period.

Revenues (Tables)

Revenues (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2021
Revenues [Abstract]
Disaggregation of Revenue [Table Text Block]	Year Ended August 31, 2021 Reportable Segment* ASC Topic 606 ASC Topic 815 Other Guidance Total Revenues (Dollars in thousands) Energy $ 5,680,391 $ 694,870 $ — $ 6,375,261 Ag 7,491,484 24,517,033 26,825 32,035,342 Corporate and Other 18,325 — 19,105 37,430 Total revenues $ 13,190,200 $ 25,211,903 $ 45,930 $ 38,448,033 Year Ended August 31, 2020 Reportable Segment* ASC Topic 606 ASC Topic 815 Other Guidance Total Revenues (Dollars in thousands) Energy $ 4,833,003 $ 598,131 $ — $ 5,431,134 Ag 5,963,198 16,901,258 61,643 22,926,099 Corporate and Other 22,903 — 26,229 49,132 Total revenues $ 10,819,104 $ 17,499,389 $ 87,872 $ 28,406,365 Year Ended August 31, 2019 Reportable Segment* ASC Topic 606 ASC Topic 815 Other Guidance Total Revenues (Dollars in thousands) Energy $ 6,393,075 $ 726,001 $ — $ 7,119,076 Ag 6,319,304 18,268,977 131,791 24,720,072 Corporate and Other 20,262 — 41,043 61,305 Total revenues $ 12,732,641 $ 18,994,978 $ 172,834 $ 31,900,453

Receivables (Tables)

Receivables (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2021
Receivables [Abstract]
Schedule of Receivables	Receivables as of August 31, 2021 and 2020, are as follows: 2021 2020 (Dollars in thousands) Trade accounts receivable $ 2,047,198 $ 1,476,585 CHS Capital short-term notes receivable 505,778 563,934 Other 451,630 491,068 Gross receivables 3,004,606 2,531,587 Less allowances and reserves 143,722 165,540 Total receivables $ 2,860,884 $ 2,366,047

Inventories (Tables)

Inventories (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2021
Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Inventories	Inventories as of August 31, 2021 and 2020, are as follows: 2021 2020 (Dollars in thousands) Grain and oilseed $ 1,435,544 $ 1,064,079 Energy 762,317 696,858 Agronomy 958,548 822,535 Processed grain and oilseed 140,975 126,022 Other 37,291 32,644 Total inventories $ 3,334,675 $ 2,742,138

Deferred Costs, Capitalized, _2

Deferred Costs, Capitalized, Prepaid, and Other Assets (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2021
Other Current Assets [Abstract]
Schedule of Other Current Assets	Other current assets as of August 31, 2021 and 2020, are as follows: 2021 2020 (Dollars in thousands) Derivative assets (Note 15) $ 559,056 $ 371,195 Margin and related deposits 336,397 194,097 Supplier advance payments 194,706 198,699 Restricted cash 129,325 76,119 Other 170,749 177,378 Total other current assets $ 1,390,233 $ 1,017,488 Margin and Related Deposits

Investments (Tables)

Investments (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2021
Investments [Abstract]
Summary of investments	Investments as of August 31, 2021 and 2020, are as follows: 2021 2020 (Dollars in thousands) Equity method investments CF Industries Nitrogen, LLC $ 2,667,164 $ 2,662,618 Ventura Foods, LLC 388,612 381,351 Ardent Mills, LLC 220,132 208,927 TEMCO, LLC 31,464 19,444 Other equity method investments 232,923 233,738 Other investments 128,816 123,955 Total investments $ 3,669,111 $ 3,630,033
Summarized financial information of equity method investments	The following tables provide aggregate summarized financial information for CF Nitrogen for balance sheets as of August 31, 2021 and 2020, and statements of operations for the 12 months ended August 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019: 2021 2020 (Dollars in thousands) Current assets $ 850,048 $ 552,127 Noncurrent assets 6,248,315 6,564,086 Current liabilities 301,174 222,391 Noncurrent liabilities 2,454 3,036 2021 2020 2019 (Dollars in thousands) Net sales $ 2,975,983 $ 2,522,827 $ 2,894,795 Gross profit 866,880 570,901 737,168 Net earnings 809,536 529,462 706,291 Earnings attributable to CHS Inc. 198,439 127,954 160,373 2021 2020 (Dollars in thousands) Current assets $ 810,593 $ 695,911 Noncurrent assets 628,516 647,105 Current liabilities 374,361 274,807 Noncurrent liabilities 313,253 331,235 2021 2020 2019 (Dollars in thousands) Net sales $ 2,584,532 $ 2,246,412 $ 2,463,945 Gross profit 350,708 289,590 299,959 Net earnings 151,196 68,055 102,069 Earnings attributable to CHS Inc. 78,519 34,026 51,608

Property, Plant and Equipment (

Property, Plant and Equipment (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2021
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
Major classes of property, plant and equipment, including capital lease assets	Major classes of property, plant and equipment, including finance lease assets, are summarized in the table below as of August 31, 2021 and 2020. 2021 2020 (Dollars in thousands) Land and land improvements $ 324,757 $ 317,714 Buildings 1,171,423 1,110,490 Machinery and equipment 7,673,748 7,559,437 Office equipment and other 378,352 362,084 Construction in progress 337,977 310,901 Gross property, plant and equipment 9,886,257 9,660,626 Less accumulated depreciation and amortization 5,076,252 4,702,688 Total property, plant and equipment $ 4,810,005 $ 4,957,938

Other Assets (Tables)

Other Assets (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2021
Other Assets [Abstract]
Schedule of Other Assets	Other assets as of August 31, 2021 and 2020, are as follows: 2021 2020 (Dollars in thousands) Goodwill $ 171,601 $ 172,404 Customer lists, trademarks and other intangible assets 58,395 65,025 Notes receivable (Note 3) 73,713 109,145 Long-term derivative assets (Note 15) 21,567 21,157 Prepaid pension and other benefits (Note 13) 119,825 106,209 Capitalized major maintenance 196,641 228,511 Cash value life insurance 147,682 130,673 Operating lease right of use assets (Note 19) 253,451 257,834 Other 55,333 48,471 Total other assets $ 1,098,208 $ 1,139,429
Changes in the Net Carrying Amount of Goodwill	Energy Ag Corporate Total (Dollars in thousands) Balances, August 31, 2020 $ 552 $ 161,278 $ 10,574 $ 172,404 Goodwill disposed of during the period — (803) — (803) Balances, August 31, 2021 $ 552 $ 160,475 $ 10,574 $ 171,601
Schedule of Intangible Assets included in Other Assets	Information regarding intangible assets is as follows: August 31, 2021 August 31, 2020 Carrying Amount Accumulated Amortization Net Carrying Amount Accumulated Amortization Net (Dollars in thousands) Customer lists $ 84,565 $ (29,254) $ 55,311 $ 84,895 $ (23,770) $ 61,125 Trademarks and other intangible assets 10,425 (7,341) 3,084 10,735 (6,835) 3,900 Total intangible assets $ 94,990 $ (36,595) $ 58,395 $ 95,630 $ (30,605) $ 65,025
Estimated Amortization Expense Related to Intangible Assets Subject to Amortization	The estimated annual amortization expense related to intangible assets subject to amortization for future years is as follows: (Dollars in thousands) 2022 $ 6,701 2023 6,607 2024 6,557 2025 6,340 2026 6,159 Thereafter 25,945 Total $ 58,309
Activity Related to Capitalized Major Maintenance Costs at Refineries	Activity related to capitalized major maintenance costs at our refineries for the years ended August 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019, is summarized below: Balance at Cost Amortization Balance at (Dollars in thousands) 2021 $ 228,511 $ 41,899 $ (73,769) $ 196,641 2020 286,890 14,496 (72,875) 228,511 2019 130,780 224,406 (68,296) 286,890

Notes Payable and Long-Term Deb

Notes Payable and Long-Term Debt (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2021
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of notes payable	Notes payable as of August 31, 2021 and 2020, consisted of the following: Weighted-average Interest Rate 2021 2020 2021 2020 (Dollars in thousands) Notes payable 1.18% 1.96% $ 864,147 $ 763,215 CHS Capital notes payable 1.00% 1.29% 876,712 812,276 Total notes payable $ 1,740,859 $ 1,575,491
Schedule of amounts included in long-term debt	Amounts included in long-term debt on our Consolidated Balance Sheets as of August 31, 2021 and 2020, are presented in the table below: 2021 2020 (Dollars in thousands) 4.00% unsecured notes $100 million face amount, due in equal installments beginning in fiscal 2017 through fiscal 2021 $ — $ 20,000 4.52% unsecured notes $160 million face amount, due in fiscal 2021 — 162,090 4.67% unsecured notes $130 million face amount, due in fiscal 2023 134,873 137,623 4.39% unsecured notes $152 million face amount, due in fiscal 2023 152,000 152,000 3.85% unsecured notes $80 million face amount, due in fiscal 2025 80,000 80,000 3.80% unsecured notes $100 million face amount, due in fiscal 2025 100,000 100,000 4.58% unsecured notes $150 million face amount, due in fiscal 2025 153,101 154,012 4.82% unsecured notes $80 million face amount, due in fiscal 2026 80,000 80,000 4.69% unsecured notes $58 million face amount, due in fiscal 2027 58,000 58,000 3.24% unsecured notes $95 million face amount, due in fiscal 2027 95,000 — 4.74% unsecured notes $95 million face amount, due in fiscal 2028 95,000 95,000 3.48% unsecured notes $100 million face amount, due in fiscal 2030 100,000 — 4.89% unsecured notes $100 million face amount, due in fiscal 2031 100,000 100,000 3.58% unsecured notes $65 million face amount, due in fiscal 2032 65,000 — 4.71% unsecured notes $100 million face amount, due in fiscal 2033 100,000 100,000 3.73% unsecured notes $115 million face amount, due in fiscal 2035 115,000 — 5.40% unsecured notes $125 million face amount, due in fiscal 2036 125,000 125,000 Private placement debt 1,552,974 1,363,725 2.25% unsecured term loans from cooperative and other banks, due in fiscal 2025 (a) — 366,000 Bank financing — 366,000 Finance lease liabilities 36,034 31,460 Other notes and contracts with interest rates from 2.6% to 9.0% 33,443 34,709 Deferred financing costs (4,090) (4,771) Total long-term debt 1,618,361 1,791,123 Less current portion 38,450 189,287 Long-term portion $ 1,579,911 $ 1,601,836 (a) Borrowings are variable under the agreement and bear interest at a base rate (or LIBOR) plus an applicable margin.
Schedule of minimum future payments	Long-term debt outstanding as of August 31, 2021, has aggregate maturities, excluding fair value adjustments and finance leases (see Note 19, Leases , for a schedule of minimum future lease payments under finance leases), as follows: (Dollars in thousands) 2022 $ 31,108 2023 282,860 2024 837 2025 330,549 2026 80,034 Thereafter 853,034 Total $ 1,578,422

Other Liabilities (Tables)

Other Liabilities (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2021
Other Liabilities Disclosure [Abstract]
Other Current Liabilities	Other current liabilities as of August 31, 2021 and 2020, are as follows: 2021 2020 (Dollars in thousands) Customer margin deposits and credit balances $ 269,114 $ 149,539 Customer advance payments 439,293 300,100 Derivative liabilities (Note 15) 449,522 416,204 Dividends and equity payable (Note 12) 150,000 63,000 Total other current liabilities $ 1,307,929 $ 928,843

Income Taxes (Tables)

Income Taxes (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2021
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of provision for (benefit from) income taxes	The (benefit from) provision for income taxes for the years ended August 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019 is as follows: 2021 2020 2019 (Dollars in thousands) Current: Federal $ (533) $ 4,519 $ 211 State 2,943 (2,231) 3,815 Foreign 56 2,748 (2,630) Total Current 2,466 5,036 1,396 Deferred: Federal (24,676) (36,231) (4,923) State (15,666) (5,263) (8,491) Foreign (373) (273) (438) Total Deferred (40,715) (41,767) (13,852) Total $ (38,249) $ (36,731) $ (12,456)
Schedule of deferred tax assets and liabilities	Deferred tax assets and liabilities as of August 31, 2021 and 2020, are as follows: 2021 2020 (Dollars in thousands) Deferred tax assets: Accrued expenses $ 57,245 $ 51,560 Postretirement health care and deferred compensation 42,217 42,898 Tax credit carryforwards 128,824 123,193 Loss carryforwards 115,327 116,741 Nonqualified equity 391,309 344,924 Lease obligations 62,770 64,140 Other 92,325 85,856 Deferred tax assets valuation allowance (208,810) (219,891) Total deferred tax assets 681,207 609,421 Deferred tax liabilities: Pension 24,277 17,131 Investments 110,910 95,916 Property, plant and equipment 557,129 556,160 Right of use assets 61,870 64,140 Other 28,549 15,417 Total deferred tax liabilities 782,735 748,764 Net deferred tax liabilities $ 101,528 $ 139,343
Reconciliation of the statutory federal income tax rates to effective tax rates	The reconciliation of the statutory federal income tax rates to the effective tax rates for the years ended August 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019 is as follows: 2021 2020 2019 Statutory federal income tax rate 21.0 % 21.0 % 21.0 % State and local income taxes, net of federal income tax benefit (2.6) (1.8) (0.7) Patronage earnings (11.4) (13.1) (14.3) Domestic production activities deduction (8.2) (19.0) (9.9) Export activities at rates other than the U.S. statutory rate 0.5 1.8 (2.1) Intercompany transfer of business assets (4.7) (1.6) — Increase in unrecognized tax benefits 0.8 4.2 0.2 Valuation allowance (0.2) (1.0) 2.6 Tax credits — 0.2 0.4 Other (2.6) (0.2) 1.3 Effective tax rate (7.4) % (9.5) % (1.5) %
Reconciliation of the gross beginning and ending amounts of unrecognized tax benefits	A reconciliation of the gross beginning and ending amounts of unrecognized tax benefits for the periods presented follows: 2021 2020 2019 (Dollars in thousands) Balance at beginning of period $ 119,150 $ 101,128 $ 91,135 Additions attributable to current year tax positions 2,000 14,410 14,162 Additions attributable to prior year tax positions 15,974 6,128 — Reductions attributable to prior year tax positions (14,975) (2,516) (4,169) Balance at end of period $ 122,149 $ 119,150 $ 101,128

Equities (Tables)

Equities (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2021
Equity [Abstract]
Schedule of Stock by Class [Table Text Block]	The following is a summary of our outstanding preferred stock as of August 31, 2021, all shares of which are listed and traded on The Nasdaq: Nasdaq Symbol Issuance Date Shares Outstanding Redemption Value Net Proceeds (a) Dividend Rate Dividend Payment Frequency Redeemable Beginning (d) (Dollars in millions) 8% Cumulative Redeemable CHSCP (e) 12,272,003 $ 306.8 $ 311.2 8.00 % Quarterly 7/18/2023 Class B Cumulative Redeemable, Series 1 CHSCO (f) 21,459,066 536.5 569.3 7.875 % Quarterly 9/26/2023 Class B Reset Rate Cumulative Redeemable, Series 2 CHSCN 3/11/2014 16,800,000 420.0 406.2 7.10 % Quarterly 3/31/2024 Class B Reset Rate Cumulative Redeemable, Series 3 CHSCM 9/15/2014 19,700,000 492.5 476.7 6.75 % Quarterly 9/30/2024 Class B Cumulative Redeemable, Series 4 CHSCL 1/21/2015 20,700,000 517.5 501.0 7.50 % Quarterly 1/21/2025 (a) Includes patrons' equities redeemed with preferred stock. (b) The Class B Reset Rate Cumulative Redeemable Preferred Stock, Series 2 accumulates dividends at a rate of 7.10% per year until March 31, 2024, and then at a rate equal to the three-month LIBOR plus 4.298%, not to exceed 8.00% per annum, subsequent to March 31, 2024. (c) The Class B Reset Rate Cumulative Redeemable Preferred Stock, Series 3 accumulates dividends at a rate of 6.75% per year until September 30, 2024, and then at a rate equal to the three-month LIBOR plus 4.155%, not to exceed 8.00% per annum, subsequent to September 30, 2024. (d) Preferred stock is redeemable for cash at our option, in whole or in part, at a per share price equal to the per share liquidation preference of $25.00 per share, plus all dividends accumulated and unpaid on that share to and including the date of redemption, beginning on the dates set forth in this column. (e) The 8% Cumulative Redeemable Preferred Stock was issued at various times from 2003 through 2010. (f) Shares of Class B Cumulative Redeemable Preferred Stock, Series 1 were issued on September 26, 2013; August 25, 2014; March 31, 2016; and March 30, 2017. Years Ended August 31, Nasdaq Symbol 2021 2020 (Dollars per share) 8% Cumulative Redeemable CHSCP $ 2.00 $ 2.00 Class B Cumulative Redeemable, Series 1 CHSCO 1.97 1.97 Class B Reset Rate Cumulative Redeemable, Series 2 CHSCN 1.78 1.78 Class B Reset Rate Cumulative Redeemable, Series 3 CHSCM 1.69 1.69 Class B Cumulative Redeemable, Series 4 CHSCL 1.88 1.88
Schedule of Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) by Component	Changes in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) by component, for the years ended August 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019 are as follows: Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Unrealized Net Gain (Loss) on Available for Sale Investments Cash Flow Hedges Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment Total (Dollars in thousands) Balance as of August 31, 2018, net of tax $ (140,335) $ 8,861 $ (5,882) $ (62,559) $ (199,915) Other comprehensive income (loss), before tax: Amounts before reclassifications (51,118) — 37,709 (9,990) (23,399) Amounts reclassified out 10,279 — (9,843) — 436 Total other comprehensive income (loss), before tax (40,839) — 27,866 (9,990) (22,963) Tax effect 8,280 — (7,670) 41 651 Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax (32,559) — 20,196 (9,949) (22,312) Reclassifications 416 (8,861) 983 2,756 (4,706) Balance as of August 31, 2019, net of tax (172,478) — 15,297 (69,752) (226,933) Other comprehensive income (loss), before tax: Amounts before reclassifications (4,751) — 16,430 (17,021) (5,342) Amounts reclassified out 19,908 — (22,291) — (2,383) Total other comprehensive income (loss), before tax 15,157 — (5,861) (17,021) (7,725) Tax effect (2,359) — 1,450 1,643 734 Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax 12,798 — (4,411) (15,378) (6,991) Balance as of August 31, 2020, net of tax (159,680) — 10,886 (85,130) (233,924) Other comprehensive income (loss), before tax: Amounts before reclassifications 4,048 — 11,700 5,573 21,321 Amounts reclassified out 20,256 — (19,753) — 503 Total other comprehensive income (loss), before tax 24,304 — (8,053) 5,573 21,824 Tax effect (6,009) — 1,991 (273) (4,291) Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax 18,295 — (6,062) 5,300 17,533 Balance as of August 31, 2021, net of tax $ (141,385) $ — $ 4,824 $ (79,830) $ (216,391)

Equities Peferred Stock Table (

Equities Peferred Stock Table (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2021
Preferred Stock [Abstract]
Schedule of Stock by Class [Table Text Block]	The following is a summary of our outstanding preferred stock as of August 31, 2021, all shares of which are listed and traded on The Nasdaq: Nasdaq Symbol Issuance Date Shares Outstanding Redemption Value Net Proceeds (a) Dividend Rate Dividend Payment Frequency Redeemable Beginning (d) (Dollars in millions) 8% Cumulative Redeemable CHSCP (e) 12,272,003 $ 306.8 $ 311.2 8.00 % Quarterly 7/18/2023 Class B Cumulative Redeemable, Series 1 CHSCO (f) 21,459,066 536.5 569.3 7.875 % Quarterly 9/26/2023 Class B Reset Rate Cumulative Redeemable, Series 2 CHSCN 3/11/2014 16,800,000 420.0 406.2 7.10 % Quarterly 3/31/2024 Class B Reset Rate Cumulative Redeemable, Series 3 CHSCM 9/15/2014 19,700,000 492.5 476.7 6.75 % Quarterly 9/30/2024 Class B Cumulative Redeemable, Series 4 CHSCL 1/21/2015 20,700,000 517.5 501.0 7.50 % Quarterly 1/21/2025 (a) Includes patrons' equities redeemed with preferred stock. (b) The Class B Reset Rate Cumulative Redeemable Preferred Stock, Series 2 accumulates dividends at a rate of 7.10% per year until March 31, 2024, and then at a rate equal to the three-month LIBOR plus 4.298%, not to exceed 8.00% per annum, subsequent to March 31, 2024. (c) The Class B Reset Rate Cumulative Redeemable Preferred Stock, Series 3 accumulates dividends at a rate of 6.75% per year until September 30, 2024, and then at a rate equal to the three-month LIBOR plus 4.155%, not to exceed 8.00% per annum, subsequent to September 30, 2024. (d) Preferred stock is redeemable for cash at our option, in whole or in part, at a per share price equal to the per share liquidation preference of $25.00 per share, plus all dividends accumulated and unpaid on that share to and including the date of redemption, beginning on the dates set forth in this column. (e) The 8% Cumulative Redeemable Preferred Stock was issued at various times from 2003 through 2010. (f) Shares of Class B Cumulative Redeemable Preferred Stock, Series 1 were issued on September 26, 2013; August 25, 2014; March 31, 2016; and March 30, 2017. Years Ended August 31, Nasdaq Symbol 2021 2020 (Dollars per share) 8% Cumulative Redeemable CHSCP $ 2.00 $ 2.00 Class B Cumulative Redeemable, Series 1 CHSCO 1.97 1.97 Class B Reset Rate Cumulative Redeemable, Series 2 CHSCN 1.78 1.78 Class B Reset Rate Cumulative Redeemable, Series 3 CHSCM 1.69 1.69 Class B Cumulative Redeemable, Series 4 CHSCL 1.88 1.88

Equity (Tables)

Equity (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2021
Equity [Abstract]
Patronage	The following table presents estimated patronage distributions for the year ending August 31, 2022, and actual patronage distributions for the years ended August 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019: 2022 2021 2020 2019 (Dollars in millions) Patronage distributed in cash $ 50.0 $ 30.0 $ 90.1 $ 75.8 Patronage distributed in equity 230.3 214.8 474.4 353.0 Total patronage distributed $ 280.3 $ 244.8 $ 564.5 $ 428.8

Benefit Plans (Tables)

Benefit Plans (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2021
Retirement Benefits [Abstract]
Schedule of defined benefit plans disclosures	Financial information on changes in projected benefit obligation, plan assets funded and balance sheet status as of August 31, 2021 and 2020, is as follows: Qualified Nonqualified Other Benefits 2021 2020 2021 2020 2021 2020 (Dollars in thousands) Change in benefit obligation: Projected benefit obligation at beginning of period $ 918,002 $ 876,696 $ 19,183 $ 19,047 $ 30,316 $ 31,098 Service cost 45,229 42,151 433 405 1,186 1,050 Interest cost 16,563 21,722 273 429 493 747 Actuarial loss (gain) 34,958 6,265 2,034 1,382 (765) (2,286) Assumption change (12,847) 40,694 (55) 775 (398) 1,275 Plan amendments 113 — — — — — Settlements — — — (2,130) — — Benefits paid (76,779) (69,526) (1,264) (725) (1,763) (1,568) Projected benefit obligation at end of period $ 925,239 $ 918,002 $ 20,604 $ 19,183 $ 29,069 $ 30,316 Change in plan assets: Fair value of plan assets at beginning of period $ 976,542 $ 909,427 $ — $ — $ — $ — Actual gain on plan assets 70,161 90,241 — — — — Company contributions 23,200 46,400 1,264 2,855 1,763 1,568 Settlements — — — (2,130) — — Benefits paid (76,779) (69,526) (1,264) (725) (1,763) (1,568) Fair value of plan assets at end of period $ 993,124 $ 976,542 $ — $ — $ — $ — Funded status at end of period $ 67,885 $ 58,540 $ (20,604) $ (19,183) $ (29,069) $ (30,316) Amounts recognized on balance sheet: Noncurrent assets $ 67,885 $ 58,540 $ — $ — $ — $ — Accrued benefit cost: Current liabilities — — (2,220) (1,660) (1,970) (2,090) Noncurrent liabilities — — (18,384) (17,523) (27,099) (28,226) Ending balance $ 67,885 $ 58,540 $ (20,604) $ (19,183) $ (29,069) $ (30,316) Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive loss (pretax): Prior service cost (credit) $ 873 $ 938 $ (388) $ (502) $ (2,270) $ (2,715) Net loss (gain) 199,785 225,983 5,579 3,813 (14,862) (15,064) Ending balance $ 200,658 $ 226,921 $ 5,191 $ 3,311 $ (17,132) $ (17,779)
Schedule of information for pensions plans with an accumulated benefit obligation in excess of plan assets	Information for the pension plans with an accumulated benefit obligation in excess of plan assets is set forth below: Years Ended August 31, 2021 2020 (Dollars in thousands) Projected benefit obligation $ 20,604 $ 19,183 Accumulated benefit obligation 20,513 18,172
Schedule of net benefit costs of assumptions used	Components of net periodic benefit costs for the years ended August 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019, are as follows: Qualified Nonqualified Other Benefits 2021 2020 2019 2021 2020 2019 2021 2020 2019 (Dollars in thousands) Components of net periodic benefit costs: Service cost $ 45,229 $ 42,151 $ 38,592 $ 433 $ 405 $ 311 $ 1,186 $ 1,050 $ 1,053 Interest cost 16,563 21,722 28,396 273 429 747 493 747 1,094 Expected return on assets (43,641) (46,684) (44,968) — — — — — — Settlement of retiree obligations — — 51 — — 191 — — — Prior service cost (credit) amortization 178 178 190 (114) (114) (75) (445) (445) (556) Actuarial loss (gain) amortization 21,790 21,583 12,348 212 98 2 (1,365) (1,392) (1,627) Net periodic benefit cost (benefit) $ 40,119 $ 38,950 $ 34,609 $ 804 $ 818 $ 1,176 $ (131) $ (40) $ (36) Plan assumptions for the years ended August 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019, are as follows: Qualified Nonqualified Other Benefits 2021 2020 2019 2021 2020 2019 2021 2020 2019 Weighted-average assumptions to determine the net periodic benefit cost: Interest credit rate for cash balance plans 4.65 % 4.65 % 4.65 % 4.65 % 4.65 % 4.65 % N/A N/A N/A Discount rate 2.65 % 3.06 % 4.23 % 2.07 % 2.70 % 4.09 % 2.43 % 2.89 % 4.08 % Expected return on plan assets 4.90 % 5.50 % 5.50 % N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A Rate of compensation increase 4.99 % 5.28 % 5.14 % 4.99 % 5.28 % 5.14 % N/A N/A N/A Weighted-average assumptions to determine the benefit obligations: Discount rate 2.78 % 2.67 % 3.06 % 2.08 % 2.15 % 2.70 % 2.57 % 2.43 % 2.89 % Rate of compensation increase 4.79 % 4.99 % 5.28 % 4.79 % 4.99 % 5.28 % N/A N/A N/A
Schedule of components of net periodic benefit costs and amounts recognized in other comprehensive income (loss)	Components of net periodic benefit costs and amounts recognized in other comprehensive loss (income) for the years ended August 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019, are as follows: Qualified Nonqualified Other Benefits 2021 2020 2019 2021 2020 2019 2021 2020 2019 (Dollars in thousands) Other comprehensive loss (income): Prior service cost $ 113 $ — $ 18 $ — $ — $ — $ — $ — $ — Net actuarial loss (gain) (4,408) 3,401 47,556 1,978 2,157 1,917 (1,163) (1,011) 801 Amortization of actuarial (gain) loss (21,790) (21,583) (12,307) (212) (98) (2) 1,365 1,392 1,627 Amortization of prior service (credit) costs (178) (178) (190) 114 114 75 445 445 556 Settlement of retiree obligations (a) — — — — (397) (191) — — — Total recognized in other comprehensive loss (income) $ (26,263) $ (18,360) $ 35,077 $ 1,880 $ 1,776 $ 1,799 $ 647 $ 826 $ 2,984
Schedule of amounts in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) to be recognized over next fiscal year	stimated amortization in fiscal 2022 from accumulated other comprehensive loss into net periodic benefit cost is as follows: Qualified Nonqualified Other (Dollars in thousands) Amortization of prior service cost (credit) $ 178 $ (114) $ (445) Amortization of actuarial loss (gain) 23,343 478 (1,259)
Schedule of effect of one-percentage-point change in assumed health care cost trend rates	A one-percentage-point change in the assumed health care cost trend rates would have the following effects: 1% Increase 1% Decrease (Dollars in thousands) Effect on total of service and interest cost components $ 180 $ (150) Effect on postretirement benefit obligation 2,000 (1,700)
Schedule of expected benefit payments	Our retiree benefit payments, which reflect expected future service, are anticipated to be paid as follows: Qualified Nonqualified Other Benefits (Dollars in thousands) 2022 $ 70,100 $ 2,220 $ 1,970 2023 70,900 2,490 2,260 2024 70,300 2,210 2,340 2025 71,400 2,110 2,340 2026 73,900 2,100 2,290 2027-2031 342,700 7,930 8,920
Schedule of defined benefit plans, fair value disclosure	Our pension plans' recurring fair value measurements by asset category at August 31, 2021 and 2020, are presented in the tables below: 2021 Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Total (Dollars in thousands) Cash and cash equivalents $ 11,383 $ — $ — $ 11,383 Equities: Common/collective trust at net asset value (1) — — — 180,766 Fixed income securities: Common/collective trust at net asset value (1) — — — 707,831 Partnership and joint venture interests measured at net asset value (1) — — — 93,144 Total $ 11,383 $ — $ — $ 993,124 2020 Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Total (Dollars in thousands) Cash and cash equivalents $ 57,801 $ — $ — $ 57,801 Equities: Common/collective trust at net asset value (1) — — — 219,050 Fixed income securities: Common/collective trust at net asset value (1) — — — 603,250 Partnership and joint venture interests measured at net asset value (1) — — — 94,400 Other assets measured at net asset value (1) — — — 2,041 Total $ 57,801 $ — $ — $ 976,542 (1) In accordance with ASC Topic 820-10, Fair Value Measurement, certain assets that are measured at fair value using the net asset value per share (or its equivalent) practical expedient have not been categorized in the fair value hierarchy. The fair value amounts presented in the tables above are intended to permit reconciliation of the fair value hierarchy to the amounts presented in the "Financial information on changes in projected benefit obligation, plan assets funded and balance sheet status" table above.
Schedule of multiemployer plans	Our participation in the Co-op Plan for the years ended August 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019, is outlined in the table below: Contributions of CHS (Dollars in thousands) Plan Name EIN/Plan Number 2021 2020 2019 Surcharge Imposed Expiration Date of Collective Bargaining Agreement Co-op Retirement Plan 01-0689331 / 001 $ 1,172 $ 1,455 $ 1,712 N/A N/A

Segment Reporting (Tables)

Segment Reporting (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2021
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Schedule of Segment Information	Segment information for the years ended August 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019, is presented in the tables below. Energy Ag Nitrogen Production Foods Corporate Reconciling Total Year ended August 31, 2021 (Dollars in thousands) Revenues, including intersegment revenues $ 6,812,478 $ 32,058,064 $ — $ — $ 46,476 $ (468,985) $ 38,448,033 Intersegment revenues (437,217) (22,722) — — (9,046) 468,985 — Revenues, net of intersegment revenues $ 6,375,261 $ 32,035,342 $ — $ — $ 37,430 $ — $ 38,448,033 Operating earnings (loss) (15,775) 265,362 (35,432) (10,617) 2,259 205,797 Interest expense 1,113 65,099 44,461 — 1,804 (7,912) 104,565 Other income (2,819) (47,452) (2,489) — (14,711) 7,912 (59,559) Equity income from investments (3,473) (50,381) (198,439) (78,519) (23,717) (354,529) Income before income taxes $ (10,596) $ 298,096 $ 121,035 $ 67,902 $ 38,883 $ — $ 515,320 Capital expenditures 112,160 148,770 — — 56,864 — 317,794 Depreciation and amortization 245,273 182,210 — — 34,247 — 461,730 Total assets as of August 31, 2021 4,286,677 7,451,559 2,683,652 388,612 2,765,775 — 17,576,275 Energy Ag Nitrogen Production Foods Corporate Reconciling Total Year ended August 31, 2020 (Dollars in thousands) Revenues, including intersegment revenues $ 5,820,154 $ 22,940,712 $ — $ — $ 55,567 $ (410,068) $ 28,406,365 Intersegment revenues (389,020) (14,613) — — (6,435) 410,068 — Revenues, net of intersegment revenues $ 5,431,134 $ 22,926,099 $ — $ — $ 49,132 $ — $ 28,406,365 Operating earnings (loss) 219,861 82,543 (33,497) (9,847) 18,205 — 277,265 Interest expense 308 71,682 45,255 — 11,806 (12,074) 116,977 Other income (3,005) (35,560) (2,635) — (10,749) 12,074 (39,875) Equity income from investments (2,759) (7,303) (127,954) (34,026) (14,673) — (186,715) Income before income taxes $ 225,317 $ 53,724 $ 51,837 $ 24,179 $ 31,821 $ — $ 386,878 Capital expenditures 175,169 158,903 — — 84,287 — 418,359 Depreciation and amortization 245,983 196,510 — — 34,882 — 477,375 Total assets as of August 31, 2020 4,447,526 6,325,857 2,681,616 381,351 2,157,597 — 15,993,947 Energy Ag Nitrogen Production Foods Corporate Reconciling Total Year ended August 31, 2019 (Dollars in thousands) Revenues, including intersegment revenues $ 7,581,450 $ 24,736,425 $ — $ — $ 68,710 $ (486,132) $ 31,900,453 Intersegment revenues (462,374) (16,353) — — (7,405) 486,132 — Revenues, net of intersegment revenues $ 7,119,076 $ 24,720,072 $ — $ — $ 61,305 $ — $ 31,900,453 Operating earnings (loss) 615,662 65,181 (35,046) (8,912) 22,717 — 659,602 Interest expense 5,719 101,386 55,226 — 11,684 (6,950) 167,065 Other income (5,548) (74,774) (2,769) — (10,168) 6,950 (86,309) Equity income from investments (2,697) (4,447) (160,373) (51,608) (17,630) — (236,755) Income before income taxes $ 618,188 $ 43,016 $ 72,870 $ 42,696 $ 38,831 $ — $ 815,601 Capital expenditures 268,877 110,197 — — 64,142 — 443,216 Depreciation and amortization 233,624 208,294 — — 31,293 — 473,211
Schedule of Sales Based on Geographic Locations	The following table presents our sales, based on the geographic location of the subsidiary making the sale, for the years ended August 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019: 2021 2020 2019 (Dollars in thousands) North America (a) $ 36,540,178 $ 25,360,077 $ 27,896,269 South America 242,848 1,559,380 2,027,020 Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) 955,605 774,068 895,472 Asia Pacific (APAC) 709,402 712,840 1,081,692 Total $ 38,448,033 $ 28,406,365 $ 31,900,453 (a) Revenues in North America are substantially all attributed to revenues from the United States.
Schedule of Long-lived Assets by Geographical Region	The following table presents long-lived assets by geographical region based on physical location: 2021 2020 (Dollars in thousands) United States $ 4,944,574 $ 5,121,315 International 62,072 65,134 Total $ 5,006,646 $ 5,186,449

Derivative Financial Instrume_2

Derivative Financial Instruments and Hedging Activities (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2021
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of gross fair values of derivative assets, derivative liabilities, and margin deposits (cash collateral)	The following tables present the gross fair values of derivative assets, derivative liabilities and margin deposits (cash collateral) recorded on our Consolidated Balance Sheets, along with related amounts permitted to be offset in accordance with U.S. GAAP. Although we have certain netting arrangements for our exchange-traded futures and options contracts and certain OTC contracts, we have elected to report our derivative instruments on a gross basis on our Consolidated Balance Sheets under ASC Topic 210-20, Balance Sheet - Offsetting . August 31, 2021 Amounts Not Offset on the Consolidated Balance Sheet but Eligible for Offsetting Gross Amounts Recognized Cash Collateral Derivative Instruments Net Amounts (Dollars in thousands) Derivative Assets Commodity derivatives $ 532,832 $ — $ 4,174 $ 528,658 Foreign exchange derivatives 19,429 — 5,582 13,847 Embedded derivative asset 16,488 — — 16,488 Total $ 568,749 $ — $ 9,756 $ 558,993 Derivative Liabilities Commodity derivatives $ 444,861 $ 2,485 $ 4,174 $ 438,202 Foreign exchange derivatives 8,506 — 5,582 2,924 Total $ 453,367 $ 2,485 $ 9,756 $ 441,126 August 31, 2020 Amounts Not Offset on the Consolidated Balance Sheet but Eligible for Offsetting Gross Amounts Recognized Cash Collateral Derivative Instruments Net Amounts (Dollars in thousands) Derivative Assets Commodity derivatives $ 327,493 $ — $ 2,980 $ 324,513 Foreign exchange derivatives 11,809 — 9,385 2,424 Embedded derivative asset 18,998 — — 18,998 Total $ 358,300 $ — $ 12,365 $ 345,935 Derivative Liabilities Commodity derivatives $ 343,343 $ 956 $ 5,578 $ 336,809 Foreign exchange derivatives 69,466 — 9,385 60,081 Total $ 412,809 $ 956 $ 14,963 $ 396,890
Pretax gains (losses) on derivatives not accounted for as hedging instruments	The majority of our derivative instruments have not been designated as hedging instruments. The following table sets forth the pretax gains (losses) on derivatives not accounted for as hedging instruments that have been included in our Consolidated Statements of Operations for the years ended August 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019: Derivative Type Location of 2021 2020 2019 (Dollars in thousands) Commodity derivatives Cost of goods sold $ (971,581) $ 89,248 $ 125,323 Foreign exchange derivatives Cost of goods sold 25,277 (184,692) 4,228 Foreign exchange derivatives Marketing, general and administrative expenses 1,105 (2,986) (1,229) Interest rate derivatives Interest expense — (1,226) — Embedded derivative Other income 2,489 2,634 2,769 Total $ (942,710) $ (97,022) $ 131,091
Schedule of notional volumes for outstanding commodity contracts	The table below presents the notional volumes for all outstanding commodity contracts: 2021 2020 Derivative Type Long Short Long Short (Units in thousands) Grain and oilseed (bushels) 666,726 851,582 664,673 892,303 Energy products (barrels) 9,881 7,656 10,028 6,570 Processed grain and oilseed (tons) 559 3,418 657 3,304 Crop nutrients (tons) 66 12 74 127 Ocean freight (metric tons) 210 — 1,140 95
Schedule of fair value of derivative interest rate swap instruments designated as fair value hedges	The following table presents the fair value of our commodity derivative instruments designated as cash flow hedges and the line items on our Consolidated Balance Sheets in which they are recorded as of August 31, 2021 and 2020: Derivative Assets Derivative Liabilities Balance Sheet Location 2021 2020 Balance Sheet Location 2021 2020 (Dollars in thousands) (Dollars in thousands) Other current assets $ 11,874 $ 34,052 Other current liabilities $ 1,001 $ 8,821
Schedule of pretax gains (losses) on derivatives accounted for as hedging instruments	The following table sets forth the pretax gains (losses) on derivatives accounted for as hedging instruments that have been included in our Consolidated Statements of Operations for the years ended August 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019: Gain (Loss) on Fair Value Hedging Relationships Location of 2021 2020 2019 (Dollars in thousands) Interest rate swaps Interest expense $ — $ (1,897) $ 21,158 Hedged item Interest expense — 1,897 (21,158) Total $ — $ — $ — 2021 2020 2019 (Dollars in thousands) Commodity derivatives $ (7,824) $ (2,596) $ 27,650

Fair Value Measurements (Tables

Fair Value Measurements (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2021
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Schedule of assets and liabilities recognized at fair value on a recurring basis	The following tables present assets and liabilities, included on our Consolidated Balance Sheets, that are recognized at fair value on a recurring basis and indicate the fair value hierarchy utilized to determine these fair values. Assets and liabilities are classified in their entirety based on the lowest level of input that is a significant component of the fair value measurement. The lowest level of input is considered Level 3. Our assessment of the significance of a particular input to the fair value measurement requires judgment and may affect the classification of fair value assets and liabilities within the fair value hierarchy levels. Recurring fair value measurements at August 31, 2021 and 2020, are as follows: 2021 Quoted Prices in Active Markets Significant Other Observable Significant Total (Dollars in thousands) Assets Commodity derivatives $ 2,453 $ 542,253 $ — $ 544,706 Foreign currency derivatives — 19,429 — 19,429 Deferred compensation assets 51,940 — — 51,940 Embedded derivative asset — 16,488 — 16,488 Segregated investments and marketable securities 99,837 — — 99,837 Other assets 6,052 — — 6,052 Total $ 160,282 $ 578,170 $ — $ 738,452 Liabilities Commodity derivatives $ 1,615 $ 444,247 $ — $ 445,862 Foreign currency derivatives — 8,506 — 8,506 Total $ 1,615 $ 452,753 $ — $ 454,368 2020 Quoted Prices in Active Markets Significant Other Observable Significant Total (Dollars in thousands) Assets Commodity derivatives $ 5,762 $ 355,783 $ — $ 361,545 Foreign currency derivatives — 11,523 — 11,523 Deferred compensation assets 47,669 — — 47,669 Embedded derivative asset — 18,998 — 18,998 Segregated investments and marketable securities 85,950 — — 85,950 Other assets 5,276 — — 5,276 Total $ 144,657 $ 386,304 $ — $ 530,961 Liabilities Commodity derivatives $ 6,037 $ 346,126 $ — $ 352,163 Foreign currency derivatives — 69,467 — 69,467 Total $ 6,037 $ 415,593 $ — $ 421,630

Commitments and Contingencies (

Commitments and Contingencies (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2021
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Unrecorded unconditional purchase obligations disclosure	As of August 31, 2021, minimum future payments required under long-term commitments that are noncancelable and that third parties have used to secure financing for facilities that will provide contracted goods, are as follows: Payments Due by Period Total 2022 2023 2024 2025 2026 Thereafter (Dollars in thousands) Long-term unconditional purchase obligations $ 537,047 $ 83,044 $ 65,918 $ 65,650 $ 60,115 $ 57,951 $ 204,369

Related Party Transactions (Tab

Related Party Transactions (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2021
Related Party Transactions [Abstract]
Schedule of related party transactions	, primarily CF Nitrogen, Ventura Foods, Ardent Mills and TEMCO. Sales to and purchases from related parties for the years ended August 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019, respectively, are as follows: 2021 2020 2019 (Dollars in thousands) Sales $ 2,744,482 $ 2,528,921 $ 2,628,670 Purchases 2,682,165 872,819 901,812 Receivables due from and payables due to related parties as of August 31, 2021 and 2020, are as follows: 2021 2020 (Dollars in thousands) Due from related parties $ 40,485 $ 129,397 Due to related parties 90,986 53,602

Leases, Codification Topic 842

Leases, Codification Topic 842 (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2021
Leases [Abstract]
lease liability maturity	Maturities of lease liabilities by fiscal year as of August 31, 2021, were as follows: August 31, 2021 Finance Leases Operating Leases (Dollars in thousands) 2022 $ 8,517 $ 66,132 2023 6,979 52,874 2024 4,217 42,666 2025 2,797 31,782 2026 2,387 23,858 Thereafter 19,557 86,654 Total maturities of lease liabilities 44,454 303,966 Less amounts representing interest 8,420 46,822 Present value of future minimum lease payments 36,034 257,144 Less current obligations 7,444 56,424 Long-term obligations $ 28,590 $ 200,720
Lease Cash Inflow and Other Information Disclosure	Supplemental cash flow and other information related to operating and finance leases as of August 31, 2021 and 2020, are as follows: 2021 2020 (Dollars in thousands) Cash paid for amounts included in measurement of lease liabilities: Operating cash flows from operating leases $ 71,702 $ 71,003 Operating cash flows from finance leases 938 1,060 Financing cash flows from finance leases 8,235 7,949 Supplemental noncash information: Right of use assets obtained in exchange for lease liabilities 43,991 56,461 Right of use asset modifications 27,664 7,333

Organization, Basis of Presen_3

Organization, Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies Reconciliation of Cash, Cash Equivalents, and Restricted Cash (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Aug. 31, 2021	Aug. 31, 2020	Aug. 31, 2019	Aug. 31, 2018
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 413,159	$ 140,874	$ 211,179
Total cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash	542,484	216,993	299,675	$ 543,940
Restricted cash included in other current assets
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Line Items]
Restricted cash	$ 129,325	$ 76,119	$ 88,496

Revenues (Details)

Revenues (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2021	Aug. 31, 2020	Aug. 31, 2019
Contract with Customer, Liability, Current	$ 213,900	$ 139,100
Revenue from Contract with Customer, Excluding Assessed Tax	(38,448,033)	(28,406,365)	$ (31,900,453)
Contract with Customer, Liability, Revenue Recognized	$ 139,100	$ 194,800	$ 170,700

Revenues Disaggregated Revenue

Revenues Disaggregated Revenue (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2021	Aug. 31, 2020	Aug. 31, 2019
Disaggregation of Revenue [Table Text Block]	Year Ended August 31, 2021 Reportable Segment* ASC Topic 606 ASC Topic 815 Other Guidance Total Revenues (Dollars in thousands) Energy $ 5,680,391 $ 694,870 $ — $ 6,375,261 Ag 7,491,484 24,517,033 26,825 32,035,342 Corporate and Other 18,325 — 19,105 37,430 Total revenues $ 13,190,200 $ 25,211,903 $ 45,930 $ 38,448,033 Year Ended August 31, 2020 Reportable Segment* ASC Topic 606 ASC Topic 815 Other Guidance Total Revenues (Dollars in thousands) Energy $ 4,833,003 $ 598,131 $ — $ 5,431,134 Ag 5,963,198 16,901,258 61,643 22,926,099 Corporate and Other 22,903 — 26,229 49,132 Total revenues $ 10,819,104 $ 17,499,389 $ 87,872 $ 28,406,365 Year Ended August 31, 2019 Reportable Segment* ASC Topic 606 ASC Topic 815 Other Guidance Total Revenues (Dollars in thousands) Energy $ 6,393,075 $ 726,001 $ — $ 7,119,076 Ag 6,319,304 18,268,977 131,791 24,720,072 Corporate and Other 20,262 — 41,043 61,305 Total revenues $ 12,732,641 $ 18,994,978 $ 172,834 $ 31,900,453
Revenues	$ 38,448,033	$ 28,406,365	$ 31,900,453
Accounting Standards Update 2014-09
Revenues	13,190,200	10,819,104	12,732,641
Accounting Standards Update 2017-12 [Member]
Revenues	25,211,903	17,499,389	18,994,978
Other Guidance [Member]
Revenues	45,930	87,872	172,834
Energy
Revenues	6,375,261	5,431,134	7,119,076
Energy | Accounting Standards Update 2014-09
Revenues	5,680,391	4,833,003	6,393,075
Energy | Accounting Standards Update 2017-12 [Member]
Revenues	694,870	598,131	726,001
Energy | Other Guidance [Member]
Revenues	0	0	0
Ag
Revenues	32,035,342	22,926,099	24,720,072
Ag | Accounting Standards Update 2014-09
Revenues	7,491,484	5,963,198	6,319,304
Ag | Accounting Standards Update 2017-12 [Member]
Revenues	24,517,033	16,901,258	18,268,977
Ag | Other Guidance [Member]
Revenues	26,825	61,643	131,791
Corporate and Other
Revenues	37,430	49,132	61,305
Corporate and Other | Accounting Standards Update 2014-09
Revenues	18,325	22,903	20,262
Corporate and Other | Accounting Standards Update 2017-12 [Member]
Revenues	0	0	0
Corporate and Other | Other Guidance [Member]
Revenues	$ 19,105	$ 26,229	$ 41,043

Receivables - Schedule of Recei

Receivables - Schedule of Receivables (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Aug. 31, 2021	Aug. 31, 2020
Receivables [Abstract]
Trade accounts receivable	$ 2,047,198	$ 1,476,585
CHS Capital short-term notes receivable	505,778	563,934
Other	451,630	491,068
Receivables, gross	3,004,606	2,531,587
Less allowances and reserves	143,722	165,540
Total receivables	$ 2,860,884	$ 2,366,047

Receivables - Narrative (Detail

Receivables - Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2021	Aug. 31, 2020
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
CHS Capital long-term notes receivable	$ 55.4	$ 101.5
Percentage of commercial notes to CHS Capital long-term notes receivable	28.00%	33.00%
Percentage of producer notes to CHS Capital long-term notes receivable	72.00%	67.00%
Interest income accrual, discontinued, term	90 days
Maximum
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
CHS Capital short-term notes receivable, term	12 months
Long-term notes receivable, term	10 years
CHS Capital
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Additional available credit	$ 706.9
CHS Capital Notes Receivable
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Loan loss reserves	0
Note receivables sold under loan participations	$ 40.8	$ 70.6

Inventories - Schedule of Inven

Inventories - Schedule of Inventories (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2021	Aug. 31, 2020
Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]
Grain and oilseed	$ 1,435,544	$ 1,064,079
Energy	762,317	696,858
Agronomy	958,548	822,535
Processed grain and oilseed	140,975	126,022
Other	37,291	32,644
Total inventories	$ 3,334,675	$ 2,742,138
Percentage of LIFO Inventory	13.00%	16.00%
Inventory, LIFO Reserve	$ 359,200	$ 93,500
Effect of LIFO Inventory Liquidation on Income	$ 35,300

Deferred Costs, Capitalized, _3

Deferred Costs, Capitalized, Prepaid, and Other Assets (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Aug. 31, 2021	Aug. 31, 2020
Other Current Assets [Abstract]
Derivative Asset, Current	$ 559,056	$ 371,195
Margin Deposit Assets	336,397	194,097
Advances on Inventory Purchases	194,706	198,699
Restricted Cash, Current	129,325	76,119
Other Assets	170,749	177,378
Other current assets	$ 1,390,233	$ 1,017,488

Investments - Schedule of Inves

Investments - Schedule of Investments (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2021	Aug. 31, 2020	Aug. 31, 2019
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Other Investments	$ 128,816	$ 123,955
Investments	3,669,111	3,630,033
Revenues	38,448,033	28,406,365	$ 31,900,453
Gross Profit	951,399	981,807	1,384,333
Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	553,569	423,609	828,057
CF Industries Nitrogen, LLC
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Equity method investments	2,667,164	2,662,618
Revenues	2,975,983	2,522,827	2,894,795
Gross Profit	866,880	570,901	737,168
Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	809,536	529,462	706,291
Ventura Foods, LLC
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Equity method investments	388,612	381,351
Revenues	2,584,532	2,246,412	2,463,945
Gross Profit	350,708	289,590	299,959
Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	151,196	68,055	$ 102,069
Ardent Mills, LLC
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Equity method investments	220,132	208,927
Other equity method investments
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Equity method investments	232,923	233,738
TEMCO
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Equity method investments	$ 31,464	$ 19,444

Investments - Narrative (Detail

Investments - Narrative (Details)	Feb. 01, 2016USD ($)	Aug. 31, 2021USD ($)T	Aug. 31, 2020USD ($)	Aug. 31, 2019USD ($)	Feb. 01, 2096USD ($)
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Equity (income) loss from investments, net of distributions received		$ (354,529,000)	$ (186,715,000)	$ (236,755,000)
Investment Company, Distributable Earnings		458,200,000
Nitrogen Production
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Equity (income) loss from investments, net of distributions received		(198,439,000)	(127,954,000)	(160,373,000)
Ag
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Equity (income) loss from investments, net of distributions received		$ (50,381,000)	(7,303,000)	(4,447,000)
CF Industries Nitrogen
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Amount invested in equity method investment	$ 2,700,000,000
Equity method investment, ownership percentage		10.00%
Supply agreement, term	80 years
Maximum annual granular urea eligible for purchases | T		1,100,000
Maximum annual UAN eligible for purchases | T		580,000
Equity method investments		$ 2,667,164,000	2,662,618,000
Cash Distribution from Equity Method		$ 193,900,000	174,300,000	$ 186,500,000
CF Industries Nitrogen | Forecast
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Equity method investments					$ 0
Ventura Foods
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Equity method investment, ownership percentage		50.00%
Equity method investments		$ 388,612,000	381,351,000
Ardent Mills
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Equity method investment, ownership percentage		12.00%
Equity method investments		$ 220,132,000	208,927,000
TEMCO
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Equity method investment, ownership percentage		50.00%
Equity method investments		$ 31,464,000	$ 19,444,000

Property, Plant and Equipment -

Property, Plant and Equipment - Schedule of Property, Plant and Equipment (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Aug. 31, 2021	Aug. 31, 2020
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, gross	$ 9,886,257	$ 9,660,626
Less accumulated depreciation and amortization	5,076,252	4,702,688
Total property, plant and equipment	4,810,005	4,957,938
Land and land improvements
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, gross	324,757	317,714
Buildings
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, gross	1,171,423	1,110,490
Machinery and equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, gross	7,673,748	7,559,437
Office equipment and other
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, gross	378,352	362,084
Construction in progress
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, gross	$ 337,977	$ 310,901

Property, Plant and Equipment_2

Property, Plant and Equipment - Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2021	Aug. 31, 2020	Aug. 31, 2019
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Depreciation expense	$ 455.9	$ 470.4	$ 495.3

Other Assets - Schedule of Othe

Other Assets - Schedule of Other Assets (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2021	Aug. 31, 2020	Aug. 31, 2019	Aug. 31, 2018
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Goodwill	$ 171,601	$ 172,404
Customer lists, trademarks and other intangible assets	58,395	65,025
Notes receivable (Note 3)	73,713	109,145
Long-term derivative assets (Note 15)	21,567	21,157
Prepaid pension and other benefits (Note 13)	119,825	106,209
Capitalized major maintenance	196,641	228,511	$ 286,890	$ 130,780
Cash value life insurance	147,682	130,673
Operating Lease, Right-of-Use Asset	253,451	257,834
Other	55,333	48,471
Other assets	1,098,208	1,139,429
Change in Goodwill	0
Customer lists, trademarks and other intangible assets
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Customer lists, trademarks and other intangible assets	$ 58,395	$ 65,025

Other Assets - Schedule of Good

Other Assets - Schedule of Goodwill (Details) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2021USD ($)
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Balances, beginning of period	$ 172,404
Balances, end of period	171,601
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Goodwill	(803)
Corporate and Other
Goodwill [Line Items]
Goodwill, Foreign Currency Translation Gain (Loss)	0
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Balances, beginning of period	10,574
Balances, end of period	10,574
Energy
Goodwill [Line Items]
Goodwill, Foreign Currency Translation Gain (Loss)	0
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Balances, beginning of period	552
Balances, end of period	552
Ag
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Balances, beginning of period	161,278
Balances, end of period	160,475
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Goodwill	$ 803

Other Assets - Narrative (Detai

Other Assets - Narrative (Details) - USD ($)	Jul. 31, 2018	Aug. 31, 2021	Aug. 31, 2020	Aug. 31, 2019
Goodwill [Line Items]
Goodwill		$ 171,601,000	$ 172,404,000
Goodwill impairment, result of annual impairment analysis	$ 0
Amortization of intangible assets		6,900,000	7,300,000	$ 5,300,000
Goodwill impairment charge				$ 27,400,000
Ag
Goodwill [Line Items]
Goodwill		160,475,000	$ 161,278,000
Nitrogen Production
Goodwill [Line Items]
Goodwill		$ 0
Minimum | Other Intangible Assets
Goodwill [Line Items]
Intangible asset useful lives		2 years
Maximum | Other Intangible Assets
Goodwill [Line Items]
Intangible asset useful lives		30 years

Other Assets - Schedule of Inta

Other Assets - Schedule of Intangible Assets (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Aug. 31, 2021	Aug. 31, 2020
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Carrying Amount	$ 94,990	$ 95,630
Accumulated Amortization	(36,595)	(30,605)
Net	58,395	65,025
Customer lists
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Carrying Amount	84,565	84,895
Accumulated Amortization	(29,254)	(23,770)
Net	55,311	61,125
Trademarks and other intangible assets
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Carrying Amount	10,425	10,735
Accumulated Amortization	(7,341)	(6,835)
Net	$ 3,084	$ 3,900

Other Assets - Schedule of Defi

Other Assets - Schedule of Definite Lived Intangible Assets Estimated Annual Amortization Expense (Details) $ in Thousands	Aug. 31, 2021USD ($)
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Maturity Schedule [Abstract]
2022	$ 6,701
2023	6,607
2024	6,557
2025	6,340
2026	6,159
Thereafter	25,945
Total	$ 58,309

Other Assets - Rollforward of C

Other Assets - Rollforward of Capitalized Maintenance Activity (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2021	Aug. 31, 2020	Aug. 31, 2019
Capitalized Maintenance Expense [Roll Forward]
Balance at Beginning of Year	$ 228,511	$ 286,890	$ 130,780
Cost Deferred	41,899	14,496	224,406
Amortization	(73,769)	(72,875)	(68,296)
Balance at End of Year	$ 196,641	$ 228,511	$ 286,890

Notes Payable and Long-Term D_2

Notes Payable and Long-Term Debt - Schedule of Notes Payable (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Aug. 31, 2021	Aug. 31, 2020
Short-term Debt [Line Items]
Notes payable	$ 1,740,859	$ 1,575,491
Notes Payable, Other Payables [Member]
Short-term Debt [Line Items]
Short-term Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate, at Point in Time	1.18%	1.96%
CHS Capital notes payable
Short-term Debt [Line Items]
Short-term Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate, at Point in Time	1.00%	1.29%
CHS Capital notes payable | CHS Capital notes payable
Short-term Debt [Line Items]
Notes payable	$ 876,712	$ 812,276
Notes Payable, Other Payables [Member] | Recourse loan commitments
Short-term Debt [Line Items]
Notes payable	49,900
Short-term bank loans and notes payable current borrowing capacity	150,000
Notes Payable, Other Payables [Member] | Short-Term Notes Payable, Surplus Funds Program [Member]
Short-term Debt [Line Items]
Notes payable	132,300
Revolving credit facility | Notes Payable, Other Payables [Member] | Notes Payable, Other Payables [Member]
Short-term Debt [Line Items]
Notes payable	$ 864,147	$ 763,215

Notes Payable and Long-Term D_3

Notes Payable and Long-Term Debt - Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2021	Aug. 31, 2020	Aug. 31, 2019	Sep. 29, 2021	Jul. 30, 2021	Feb. 19, 2021	Sep. 24, 2020	Aug. 14, 2020	Jun. 26, 2020	Sep. 04, 2018
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest expense	$ 104,565	$ 116,977	$ 167,065
Long-term Debt, Fair Value	1,700,000
Notes payable	1,740,859	1,575,491
Long-term Debt	1,578,422
Capitalized Interest	(8,000)	(10,900)	$ (9,400)
Long-term debt repaid	547,300
Principal Amount Outstanding of Loans Held-in-portfolio	671,900
maximum availability under securitization					$ 700,000		$ 600,000		$ 500,000
Notes Purchase Agreement								$ 375,000
Loans and Leases Receivable, Loans in Process	600,000
additional uncommitted availability	$ 250,000
Unsecured debt | Minimum
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate	2.60%
Unsecured debt | Maximum
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate	9.00%
Five-year revolving facilities | Line of credit | Revolving credit facility
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Line of credit facility, amount outstanding	$ 0	345,000
Debt Instrument, Term	5 years
Line of Credit Facility, Current Borrowing Capacity	$ 2,750,000
Uncommitted lines of credit | Line of credit | Revolving credit facility
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term Line of Credit, Noncurrent	268,000
Other international subsidiaries, lines of credit | Line of credit | Revolving credit facility
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Line of credit facility, amount outstanding	204,300
Repurchase Facility [Member] | Subordinated Debt [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity										$ 150,000
Line of Credit Facility, Fair Value of Amount Outstanding		150,000
Private placement, payable in equal installments beginning in 2017 through 2021 | Unsecured debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term Debt	$ 0	20,000
Private placement, payable in equal installments beginning in 2017 through 2021 | Notes Payable, Other Payables [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate	4.00%
Debt Instrument, Face Amount	$ 100,000
Other notes and contracts | Secured debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term Debt	33,443	34,709
Notes Payable, Other Payables [Member] | Notes Payable, Other Payables [Member] | Revolving credit facility
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Notes payable	864,147	763,215
Recourse loan commitments | Notes Payable, Other Payables [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Short-term bank loans and notes payable current borrowing capacity	150,000
Notes payable	49,900
Recourse loan commitments | Notes Payable, Other Payables [Member] | Subsequent Event
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Short-term bank loans and notes payable current borrowing capacity				$ 100,000
Short-Term Notes Payable, Surplus Funds Program [Member] | Notes Payable, Other Payables [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Notes payable	132,300
Bilateral, uncommitted revolving facilities [Member] | Line of credit | Revolving credit facility
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Short-term Debt, Fair Value	335,000	0
Term loans, 430K payable in 2025 [Member] | Unsecured debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term Debt	$ 0	$ 366,000				$ 366,000

Notes Payable and Long-Term D_4

Notes Payable and Long-Term Debt - Schedule of Primary Lines of Credit (Details) - Line of credit - Revolving credit facility - USD ($) $ in Millions	Aug. 31, 2021	Aug. 31, 2020
Five-year revolving facilities
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Line of Credit Facility, Current Borrowing Capacity	$ 2,750
Long-term Line of Credit	0	$ 345
Bilateral, uncommitted revolving facilities [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Short-term Debt, Fair Value	$ 335	$ 0

Notes Payable and Long-Term D_5

Notes Payable and Long-Term Debt - Schedule of Long-Term Debt (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Aug. 31, 2021	Feb. 19, 2021	Aug. 31, 2020
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Notes payable	$ 1,740,859		$ 1,575,491
Total long-term debt	1,578,422
Debt Issuance Costs, Net	(4,090)		(4,771)
Long-term Debt, Fair Value	1,618,361
Less current portion	38,450		189,287
Long-term portion	1,579,911		1,601,836
Long-term debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Finance Lease, Liability	28,590		23,467
Total Long-term Debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Finance Lease, Liability	$ 36,034		31,460
Unsecured debt | Minimum
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate	2.60%
Unsecured debt | Maximum
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate	9.00%
Notes Payable, Other Payables [Member] | Notes Payable, Other Payables [Member] | Revolving credit facility
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Notes payable	$ 864,147		763,215
Private placement, payable in equal installments beginning in 2017 through 2021 | Unsecured debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Total long-term debt	0		20,000
Private placement, payable in equal installments beginning in 2017 through 2021 | Notes Payable, Other Payables [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Face Amount	$ 100,000
Interest rate	4.00%
Private placement, payable in its entirety in 2021 | Unsecured debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Face Amount	$ 160,000
Total long-term debt	$ 0		162,090
Interest rate	4.52%
Private placement, payable in its entirety in 2023 | Unsecured debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Face Amount	$ 130,000
Total long-term debt	$ 134,873		137,623
Interest rate	4.67%
Private placement, payable in 2023 152k [Member] [Member] | Unsecured debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Face Amount	$ 152,000
Total long-term debt	$ 152,000		152,000
Interest rate	4.39%
Private placement, payable in 2025 80k [Member] | Unsecured debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Face Amount	$ 80,000
Total long-term debt	$ 80,000		80,000
Interest rate	3.85%
Private placement, payable in 2025 100k [Member] | Unsecured debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Face Amount	$ 100,000
Total long-term debt	$ 100,000		100,000
Interest rate	3.80%
Private placement, payable in 2025 150k [Member] [Member] | Unsecured debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Face Amount	$ 150,000
Total long-term debt	$ 153,101		154,012
Interest rate	4.58%
Private placement, payable in its entirety in 2026 | Unsecured debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Face Amount	$ 80,000
Total long-term debt	$ 80,000		80,000
Interest rate	4.82%
Private placement, payable in its entirety in 2027 [Member] | Unsecured debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Face Amount	$ 58,000
Total long-term debt	$ 58,000		58,000
Interest rate	4.69%
Private placement, payable in its entirety in 2028 [Member] | Unsecured debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Face Amount	$ 95,000
Total long-term debt	$ 95,000		95,000
Interest rate	4.74%
Private placement, payable in its entirety in 2031 [Member] | Unsecured debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Face Amount	$ 100,000
Total long-term debt	$ 100,000		100,000
Interest rate	4.89%
Private placement, payable in its entirety 2033 [Member] | Unsecured debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Face Amount	$ 100,000
Total long-term debt	$ 100,000		100,000
Interest rate	4.71%
Private placement, payable in its entirety in 2036 [Member] | Unsecured debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Face Amount	$ 125,000
Total long-term debt	$ 125,000		125,000
Interest rate	5.40%
Private Placement [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Total long-term debt	$ 1,552,974		1,363,725
Term loans, 430K payable in 2025 [Member] | Unsecured debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Total long-term debt	0	$ 366,000	366,000
Bank financing [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Total long-term debt	0		366,000
Other notes and contracts | Secured debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Total long-term debt	$ 33,443		34,709
us-gaap_DebtInstrumentName | us-gaap_LongtermDebtType
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term Debt, Fair Value			1,791,123
Less current portion			$ 189,287
Unsecured term loans | Unsecured debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate	2.25%
Additional Private placement, payable in its entirety in 2027 | Unsecured debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Face Amount	$ 95,000
Total long-term debt	$ 95,000
Interest rate	3.24%
Private placement, payable in its entirety in 2030 | Unsecured debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Face Amount	$ 100,000
Total long-term debt	$ 100,000
Interest rate	3.48%
Private placement, payable in its entirety in 2032 | Unsecured debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Face Amount	$ 65,000
Total long-term debt	$ 65,000
Interest rate	3.58%
Private placement, payable in its entirety in 2035 | Unsecured debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Face Amount	$ 115,000
Total long-term debt	$ 115,000
Interest rate	3.73%

Notes Payable and Long-Term D_6

Notes Payable and Long-Term Debt - Schedule of Minimum Future Payments (Details) $ in Thousands	Aug. 31, 2021USD ($)
Long-term Debt, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract]
2022	$ 31,108
2023	282,860
2024	837
2025	330,549
2026	80,034
Thereafter	853,034
Total	$ 1,578,422

Other Liabilities (Details)

Other Liabilities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Aug. 31, 2021	Aug. 31, 2020	Aug. 31, 2019
Other Liabilities Disclosure [Abstract]
Customer Margin Deposits And Credit Balances	$ 269,114	$ 149,539
CustomerAdvancepayments	439,293	300,100
Derivative Liability, Current	449,522	416,204
Other current liabilities	150,000	63,000	$ 180,000
Other Liabilities, Current	$ 1,307,929	$ 928,843

Income Taxes - Provision for (B

Income Taxes - Provision for (Benefit from) Income Taxes (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2021	Aug. 31, 2020	Aug. 31, 2019
Current:
Federal	$ (533)	$ 4,519	$ 211
State	2,943	(2,231)	3,815
Foreign	56	2,748	(2,630)
Current Total	2,466	5,036	1,396
Deferred:
Federal	(24,676)	(36,231)	(4,923)
State	(15,666)	(5,263)	(8,491)
Foreign	(373)	(273)	(438)
Deferred Total	(40,715)	(41,767)	(13,852)
Total	$ (38,249)	$ (36,731)	$ (12,456)

Income Taxes - Narrative (Detai

Income Taxes - Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2021	Aug. 31, 2020	Aug. 31, 2019
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Income tax benefit	$ (38,249)	$ (36,731)	$ (12,456)
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net	101,528	139,343
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Domestic	497,500	324,400	825,700
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Foreign	$ 17,800	$ 62,500	$ (3,100)
Statutory federal income tax rate	21.00%	21.00%	21.00%
Operating Loss Carryforwards	$ 527,500
Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Carryforwards, Subject to Expiration	304,400
Amount of unrecognized tax benefits that would benefit effective tax rate	114,300
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Interest on Income Taxes Expense	1,400	$ 1,000	$ 1,700
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Interest on Income Taxes Accrued	2,500	1,000	$ 2,900
State tax credit
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Tax credit carryforward, amount	129,700
Low sulfer diesel credits
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Tax credit carryforward, amount	44,100
NCRA | State tax credit
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Tax credit carryforward, amount	$ 129,700	$ 125,500

Income Taxes - Schedule of Defe

Income Taxes - Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Aug. 31, 2021	Aug. 31, 2020
Deferred tax assets:
Accrued expenses	$ 57,245	$ 51,560
Postretirement health care and deferred compensation	42,217	42,898
Tax credit carryforwards	128,824	123,193
Loss carryforwards	115,327	116,741
Nonqualified equity	391,309	344,924
Deferred tax asset lease obligation	62,770	64,140
Other	92,325	85,856
Deferred tax assets valuation allowance	(208,810)	(219,891)
Total deferred tax assets	681,207	609,421
Deferred tax liabilities:
Pension	24,277	17,131
Investments	110,910	95,916
Property, plant and equipment	557,129	556,160
Deferred tax liability right of use asset	61,870	64,140
Other	28,549	15,417
Total deferred tax liabilities	782,735	748,764
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net	$ 101,528	$ 139,343

Income Taxes - Reconciliation o

Income Taxes - Reconciliation of the Statutory Tax Rates to the Effective Tax Rates (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2021	Aug. 31, 2020	Aug. 31, 2019
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent [Abstract]
Statutory federal income tax rate	21.00%	21.00%	21.00%
State and local income taxes, net of federal income tax benefit	(2.60%)	(1.80%)	(0.70%)
Patronage earnings	(11.40%)	(13.10%)	(14.30%)
Domestic production activities deduction	(8.20%)	(19.00%)	(9.90%)
Export activities at rates other than the U.S. statutory rate	0.50%	1.80%	(2.10%)
Intercompany transfer of business assets	(4.70%)	(1.60%)	0.00%
Increase in unrecognized tax benefits	0.80%	4.20%	0.20%
Valuation allowance	(0.20%)	(1.00%)	2.60%
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Tax Credit, Percent	0.00%	0.20%	0.40%
Other	(2.60%)	(0.20%)	1.30%
Effective tax rate	(7.40%)	(9.50%)	(1.50%)

Income Taxes - Rollforward of U

Income Taxes - Rollforward of Unrecognized Tax Benefits (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2021	Aug. 31, 2020	Aug. 31, 2019
Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward]
Balance at beginning of period	$ 119,150	$ 101,128	$ 91,135
Additions attributable to current year tax positions	2,000	14,410	14,162
Additions attributable to prior year tax positions	15,974	6,128	0
Reductions attributable to prior year tax positions	(14,975)	(2,516)	(4,169)
Balance at end of period	$ 122,149	$ 119,150	$ 101,128

Equities - Narrative (Details)

Equities - Narrative (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2021USD ($)pools	Aug. 31, 2020USD ($)	Aug. 31, 2019USD ($)
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Estimated patronage refunds	$ (50,000,000)	$ (30,000,000)	$ (90,000,000)
Cash patronage dividends payable	$ (30,042,000)	(90,115,000)	(75,776,000)
Patronage source earnings, percentage allocated to reserves	10.00%
Capital equity certificates, number of pools | pools	2
Equity redemptions, age	70 years
Redemptions of equities	$ 79,381,000	96,438,000	85,540,000
Preferred stock dividends paid	(168,668,000)	(168,668,000)	(168,668,000)
Estimated Cash Patronage Dividends Payable	50,000,000
futurePaymentsForRepurchaseOfOtherEquity	(100,000,000)
Total Patronage refunds, estimated	(280,300,000)
nonqualified patronage, estimated	230,300,000
Class B, Series 1 Preferred Stock [Member]
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Preferred Stock, Redemption Amount	536,500,000
Capital Reserves
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Estimated patronage refunds	(280,290,000)	(241,970,000)	(562,398,000)
Nonqualified Equity Certificates
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Estimated patronage refunds	230,290,000	$ 211,970,000	$ 472,398,000
Qualified Equity Certificates
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Estimated patronage refunds	$ 0

Equities - Summary of Outstandi

Equities - Summary of Outstanding Preferred Stock (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2021	Aug. 31, 2020
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Preferred Stock, Liquidation Preference Per Share	$ 25
8% Preferred Stock [Member]
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Preferred Stock, Per Share Amounts of Preferred Dividends in Arrears	$ 2	$ 2
Preferred Stock, Shares Outstanding	12,272,003
Preferred Stock, Redemption Amount	$ 306.8
Proceeds from issuance of preferred stock, net of issuance costs	$ 311.2
Preferred Stock, Dividend Rate, Percentage	8.00%
Class B, Series 1 Preferred Stock [Member]
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Preferred Stock, Per Share Amounts of Preferred Dividends in Arrears	$ 1.97	1.97
Preferred Stock, Shares Outstanding	21,459,066
Preferred Stock, Redemption Amount	$ 536.5
Proceeds from issuance of preferred stock, net of issuance costs	$ 569.3
Preferred Stock, Dividend Rate, Percentage	7.875%
Class B, Series 2 Preferred Stock [Member]
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Preferred Stock, Per Share Amounts of Preferred Dividends in Arrears	$ 1.78	1.78
Preferred Stock, Shares Outstanding	16,800,000
Preferred Stock, Redemption Amount	$ 420
Proceeds from issuance of preferred stock, net of issuance costs	$ 406.2
Preferred Stock, Dividend Rate, Percentage	7.10%
Class B, Series 2 Preferred Stock [Member] | Maximum
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Preferred Stock, Basis Spread on Dividends, Percent	8.00%
Class B, Series 2 Preferred Stock [Member] | London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member]
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Preferred Stock, Basis Spread on Dividends, Percent	4.298%
Class B, Series 3 Preferred Stock [Member]
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Preferred Stock, Per Share Amounts of Preferred Dividends in Arrears	$ 1.69	1.69
Preferred Stock, Shares Outstanding	19,700,000
Preferred Stock, Redemption Amount	$ 492.5
Proceeds from issuance of preferred stock, net of issuance costs	$ 476.7
Preferred Stock, Dividend Rate, Percentage	6.75%
Class B, Series 3 Preferred Stock [Member] | Maximum
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Preferred Stock, Basis Spread on Dividends, Percent	8.00%
Class B, Series 3 Preferred Stock [Member] | London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member]
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Preferred Stock, Basis Spread on Dividends, Percent	4.155%
Class B, Series 4 Preferred Stock [Member]
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Preferred Stock, Per Share Amounts of Preferred Dividends in Arrears	$ 1.88	$ 1.88
Preferred Stock, Shares Outstanding	20,700,000
Preferred Stock, Redemption Amount	$ 517.5
Proceeds from issuance of preferred stock, net of issuance costs	$ 501
Preferred Stock, Dividend Rate, Percentage	7.50%

Equities - Accumulated Other Co

Equities - Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2021	Aug. 31, 2020	Aug. 31, 2019
AOCI Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Balance	$ 8,819,173	$ 8,617,530	$ 8,165,028
Other comprehensive loss, net of tax	17,533	(6,991)	(22,312)
Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, Reclassification from AOCI to Retained Earnings, Tax Effect
Balance	9,017,326	8,819,173	8,617,530
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Reclassifications, before Tax	4,048	(4,751)	(51,118)
Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Current Period, before Tax	20,256	19,908	10,279
AOCI Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Balance	(159,680)	(172,478)	(140,335)
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Tax	24,304	15,157	(40,839)
Tax effect	(6,009)	(2,359)	8,280
Other comprehensive loss, net of tax	18,295	12,798	(32,559)
Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, Reclassification from AOCI to Retained Earnings, Tax Effect			416
Balance	(141,385)	(159,680)	(172,478)
Cash Flow Hedges
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Reclassifications, before Tax	11,700	16,430	37,709
Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Current Period, before Tax	(19,753)	(22,291)	(9,843)
AOCI Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Balance	10,886	15,297	(5,882)
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Tax	(8,053)	(5,861)	27,866
Tax effect	1,991	1,450	(7,670)
Other comprehensive loss, net of tax	(6,062)	(4,411)	20,196
Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, Reclassification from AOCI to Retained Earnings, Tax Effect			983
Balance	4,824	10,886	15,297
Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Reclassifications, before Tax	5,573	(17,021)	(9,990)
Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Current Period, before Tax	0	0	0
AOCI Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Balance	(85,130)	(69,752)	(62,559)
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Tax	5,573	(17,021)	(9,990)
Tax effect	(273)	1,643	41
Other comprehensive loss, net of tax	5,300	(15,378)	(9,949)
Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, Reclassification from AOCI to Retained Earnings, Tax Effect			2,756
Balance	(79,830)	(85,130)	(69,752)
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Reclassifications, before Tax	21,321	(5,342)	(23,399)
Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Current Period, before Tax	503	(2,383)	436
AOCI Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Balance	(233,924)	(226,933)	(199,915)
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Tax	21,824	(7,725)	(22,963)
Tax effect	(4,291)	734	651
Other comprehensive loss, net of tax	17,533	(6,991)	(22,312)
Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, Reclassification from AOCI to Retained Earnings, Tax Effect			(4,706)
Balance	$ (216,391)	(233,924)	(226,933)
AOCI, Accumulated Gain (Loss), Debt Securities, Available-for-sale, Parent [Member]
AOCI Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Balance		$ 0	8,861
Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Current Period, Net of Tax			(8,861)
Balance			$ 0

Equity (Details)

Equity (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2021	Aug. 31, 2020	Aug. 31, 2019
Patronage [Line Items]
Total Patronage refunds, estimated	$ 280,300
Estimated Patronage distributed in cash	50,000
Patronage distributed in cash	30,000	$ 90,100	$ 75,800
nonqualified patronage, estimated	230,300
nonqualified patronage	214,800	474,400	353,000
Total patronage	$ 244,800	$ 564,500	$ 428,800

Benefit Plans - Financial Infor

Benefit Plans - Financial Information on Changes in Benefit Obligation, Plan Assets Funded and Balance Sheets Status (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2021	Aug. 31, 2020	Aug. 31, 2019
Change in plan assets: [Abstract]
Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Assets, Contributions by Employer	$ 23,200
Pension Benefits
Change in plan assets: [Abstract]
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of period	976,542
Fair value of plan assets at end of period	993,124	$ 976,542
Other Benefits
Change in benefit obligation:
Projected benefit obligation at beginning of period	30,316	31,098
Service cost	1,186	1,050	$ 1,053
Interest cost	493	747	1,094
Actuarial (gain) loss	(765)	(2,286)
Assumption change	(398)	1,275
Plan Amendments	0	0
Settlements	0	0
Benefits paid	(1,763)	(1,568)
Projected benefit obligation at end of period	29,069	30,316	31,098
Change in plan assets: [Abstract]
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of period	0	0
Actual gain (loss) on plan assets	0	0
Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Assets, Contributions by Employer	1,763	1,568
Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Assets, Payment for Settlement	0	0
Benefits Paid	(1,763)	(1,568)
Fair value of plan assets at end of period	0	0	0
Funded Status of Plan	(29,069)	(30,316)
ASSETS
Non-current assets	0	0
Liabilities [Abstract]
Current liabilities	(1,970)	(2,090)
Non-current liabilities	(27,099)	(28,226)
Ending balance	(29,069)	(30,316)
Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive loss (pretax): [Abstract]
Prior service cost (credit)	(2,270)	(2,715)
Net (gain) loss	(14,862)	(15,064)
Ending balance	(17,132)	(17,779)
Qualified Pension Benefits | Pension Benefits
Change in benefit obligation:
Projected benefit obligation at beginning of period	918,002	876,696
Service cost	45,229	42,151	38,592
Interest cost	16,563	21,722	28,396
Actuarial (gain) loss	34,958	6,265
Assumption change	(12,847)	40,694
Plan Amendments	113	0
Settlements	0	0
Benefits paid	(76,779)	(69,526)
Projected benefit obligation at end of period	925,239	918,002	876,696
Change in plan assets: [Abstract]
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of period	976,542	909,427
Actual gain (loss) on plan assets	70,161	90,241
Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Assets, Contributions by Employer	23,200	46,400
Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Assets, Payment for Settlement	0	0
Benefits Paid	(76,779)	(69,526)
Fair value of plan assets at end of period	993,124	976,542	909,427
Funded Status of Plan	67,885	58,540
ASSETS
Non-current assets	67,885	58,540
Liabilities [Abstract]
Current liabilities	0	0
Non-current liabilities	0	0
Ending balance	67,885	58,540
Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive loss (pretax): [Abstract]
Prior service cost (credit)	873	938
Net (gain) loss	199,785	225,983
Ending balance	200,658	226,921
Nonqualified Pension Benefits | Pension Benefits
Change in benefit obligation:
Projected benefit obligation at beginning of period	19,183	19,047
Service cost	433	405	311
Interest cost	273	429	747
Actuarial (gain) loss	2,034	1,382
Assumption change	(55)	775
Plan Amendments	0	0
Settlements	0	(2,130)
Benefits paid	(1,264)	(725)
Projected benefit obligation at end of period	20,604	19,183	19,047
Change in plan assets: [Abstract]
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of period	0	0
Actual gain (loss) on plan assets	0	0
Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Assets, Contributions by Employer	1,264	2,855
Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Assets, Payment for Settlement	0	(2,130)
Benefits Paid	(1,264)	(725)
Fair value of plan assets at end of period	0	0	$ 0
Funded Status of Plan	(20,604)	(19,183)
ASSETS
Non-current assets	0	0
Liabilities [Abstract]
Current liabilities	(2,220)	(1,660)
Non-current liabilities	(18,384)	(17,523)
Ending balance	(20,604)	(19,183)
Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive loss (pretax): [Abstract]
Prior service cost (credit)	(388)	(502)
Net (gain) loss	5,579	3,813
Ending balance	$ 5,191	$ 3,311

Benefit Plans - Narrative (Deta

Benefit Plans - Narrative (Details) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2021USD ($)Employers	Aug. 31, 2020USD ($)	Aug. 31, 2019USD ($)
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Assets, Contributions by Employer	$ 23,200
Defined benefit plan, health care benefits annual rate of increase in the per capita cost	6.80%
Defined benefit plan, health care benefits, decrease in the per capita cost trend rate	4.50%
Defined contribution plan, contributions by employer	$ 30,100	$ 34,500	$ 31,000
Pension protection act, percentage of employers that are rural cooperatives or cooperative organizations owned by agricultural producers, criteria	85.00%
Separate Account, Liability, Surrender and Withdrawal	$ 32,000
Pension Benefits
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Accumulated benefit obligation	877,900	871,600
Defined benefit plan, expected future benefit payments, next twelve months	70,100
Non-Qualified Pension Benefits
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Accumulated benefit obligation	20,500	18,200
Defined benefit plan, expected future benefit payments, next twelve months	2,220
Other Benefits
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Assets, Contributions by Employer	1,763	$ 1,568
Defined benefit plan, expected future benefit payments, next twelve months	1,970
Pension Plans And Postretirement Plans, Defined Benefit, Non-Qualified [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined benefit plan, expected future benefit payments, next twelve months	$ 4,200
Co-op Retirement Plan | Pension Benefits
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Number of employers contributing to Co-op Retirement Plan (in number of employers) | Employers	400
Maximum | Fixed Income Securities
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined benefit plan, target allocation percentage	80.00%
Maximum | Equity Securities
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined benefit plan, target allocation percentage	55.00%
Maximum | Co-op Retirement Plan | Pension Benefits
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Employer contributions as percent of total contributions of all contributing employers	5.00%
Minimum | Fixed Income Securities
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined benefit plan, target allocation percentage	45.00%
Minimum | Equity Securities
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined benefit plan, target allocation percentage	20.00%
Minimum | Co-op Retirement Plan | Pension Benefits
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined benefit plan, funded percentage	80.00%

Benefit Plans - Information for

Benefit Plans - Information for the Pension Plans with an Accumulated Benefit Obligation in Excess of Plan Assets (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Aug. 31, 2021	Aug. 31, 2020
Retirement Benefits [Abstract]
Projected benefit obligation	$ 20,604	$ 19,183
Accumulated benefit obligation	$ 20,513	$ 18,172

Benefit Plans - Components of N

Benefit Plans - Components of Net Periodic Benefit Costs (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2021	Aug. 31, 2020	Aug. 31, 2019
Other Benefits
Component of net periodic benefit costs: [Abstract]
Service costs	$ 1,186	$ 1,050	$ 1,053
Interest costs	493	747	1,094
Expected return on assets	0	0	0
Settlement of retiree obligations	0	0	0
Prior service cost (credit) amortization	(445)	(445)	(556)
Actuarial loss (gain) amortization	(1,365)	(1,392)	(1,627)
Periodic benefit costs, net	$ (131)	$ (40)	$ (36)
Defined Benefit Plan, Weighted Average Assumptions Used in Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost [Abstract]
Discount rate	2.43%	2.89%	4.08%
Weighted-average assumptions to determine the net periodic benefit cost: [Abstract]
Discount rate	2.57%	2.43%	2.89%
Qualified Pension Benefits | Pension Benefits
Component of net periodic benefit costs: [Abstract]
Service costs	$ 45,229	$ 42,151	$ 38,592
Interest costs	16,563	21,722	28,396
Expected return on assets	(43,641)	(46,684)	(44,968)
Settlement of retiree obligations	0	0	51
Prior service cost (credit) amortization	178	178	190
Actuarial loss (gain) amortization	21,790	21,583	12,348
Periodic benefit costs, net	$ 40,119	$ 38,950	$ 34,609
Defined Benefit Plan, Weighted Average Assumptions Used in Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost [Abstract]
Discount rate	2.65%	3.06%	4.23%
Expected return on plan assets	4.90%	5.50%	5.50%
Rate of compensation increase	4.99%	5.28%	5.14%
Weighted-average assumptions to determine the net periodic benefit cost: [Abstract]
Discount rate	2.78%	2.67%	3.06%
Rate of compensation increase	4.79%	4.99%	5.28%
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Benefit Obligation, Weighted-Average Interest Crediting Rate	4.65%	4.65%	4.65%
Nonqualified Pension Benefits | Pension Benefits
Component of net periodic benefit costs: [Abstract]
Service costs	$ 433	$ 405	$ 311
Interest costs	273	429	747
Expected return on assets	0	0	0
Settlement of retiree obligations	0	0	191
Prior service cost (credit) amortization	(114)	(114)	(75)
Actuarial loss (gain) amortization	212	98	2
Periodic benefit costs, net	$ 804	$ 818	$ 1,176
Defined Benefit Plan, Weighted Average Assumptions Used in Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost [Abstract]
Discount rate	2.07%	2.70%	4.09%
Rate of compensation increase	4.99%	5.28%	5.14%
Weighted-average assumptions to determine the net periodic benefit cost: [Abstract]
Discount rate	2.08%	2.15%	2.70%
Rate of compensation increase	4.79%	4.99%	5.28%
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Benefit Obligation, Weighted-Average Interest Crediting Rate	4.65%	4.65%	4.65%

Benefit Plans - Components of_2

Benefit Plans - Components of Net Periodic Benefit Costa and Amounts Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2021	Aug. 31, 2020	Aug. 31, 2019
Pension Benefits | Qualified Pension Benefits
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Prior service cost	$ 113	$ 0	$ 18
Net actuarial loss (gain)	(4,408)	3,401	47,556
Amortization of actuarial (gain) loss	(21,790)	(21,583)	(12,307)
Amortization of prior service (credit) costs	(178)	(178)	(190)
Settlement of retiree obligations	0	0	0
Total recognized in other comprehensive loss (income)	(26,263)	(18,360)	35,077
Pension Benefits | Nonqualified Pension Benefits
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Prior service cost	0	0	0
Net actuarial loss (gain)	1,978	2,157	1,917
Amortization of actuarial (gain) loss	(212)	(98)	(2)
Amortization of prior service (credit) costs	114	114	75
Settlement of retiree obligations	0	(397)	(191)
Total recognized in other comprehensive loss (income)	1,880	1,776	1,799
Other Benefits
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Prior service cost	0	0	0
Net actuarial loss (gain)	(1,163)	(1,011)	801
Amortization of actuarial (gain) loss	1,365	1,392	1,627
Amortization of prior service (credit) costs	445	445	556
Settlement of retiree obligations	0	0	0
Total recognized in other comprehensive loss (income)	$ 647	$ 826	$ 2,984

Benefit Plans - Schedule of Amo

Benefit Plans - Schedule of Amortization from Other Accumulated Comprehensive Income into Net Period Benefit Costs (Details) $ in Thousands	Aug. 31, 2021USD ($)
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined benefit plan, health care benefits annual rate of increase in the per capita cost	6.80%
Defined benefit plan, health care benefits, decrease in the per capita cost trend rate	4.50%
Pension Benefits
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fiscal 2018 Amortization of prior service cost (credit)	$ 178
Fiscal 2018 Amortization of net actuarial (gain) loss	23,343
Non-Qualified Pension Benefits
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fiscal 2018 Amortization of prior service cost (credit)	(114)
Fiscal 2018 Amortization of net actuarial (gain) loss	478
Other Benefits
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fiscal 2018 Amortization of prior service cost (credit)	(445)
Fiscal 2018 Amortization of net actuarial (gain) loss	$ (1,259)

Benefit Plans - Schedule of the

Benefit Plans - Schedule of the Effect a Percentage Point Change in the Assumed Health Care Cost Trend Rates (Details) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2021USD ($)
Retirement Benefits [Abstract]
Effect on total of service and interest cost components (1% increase)	$ 180
Effect on total of service and interest cost components (1% decrease)	(150)
Effect on postretirement benefit obligation (1% increase)	2,000
Effect on postretirement benefit obligation (1% decrease)	$ (1,700)

Benefit Plans - Expected Future

Benefit Plans - Expected Future Retiree Benefit Payments (Details) $ in Thousands	Aug. 31, 2021USD ($)
Pension Benefits
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
2022	$ 70,100
2023	70,900
2024	70,300
2025	71,400
2026	73,900
2027-2031	342,700
Non-Qualified Pension Benefits
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
2022	2,220
2023	2,490
2024	2,210
2025	2,110
2026	2,100
2027-2031	7,930
Other Benefits
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
2022	1,970
2023	2,260
2024	2,340
2025	2,340
2026	2,290
2027-2031	$ 8,920
Fixed Income Securities | Minimum
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined benefit plan, target allocation percentage	45.00%
Fixed Income Securities | Maximum
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined benefit plan, target allocation percentage	80.00%
Equity Securities | Minimum
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined benefit plan, target allocation percentage	20.00%
Equity Securities | Maximum
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined benefit plan, target allocation percentage	55.00%

Benefit Plans - Schedule of Pen

Benefit Plans - Schedule of Pension Plans' Fair Value Measurements (Details) - Pension Benefits - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Aug. 31, 2021	Aug. 31, 2020
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Pension plans assets, fair value	$ 993,124	$ 976,542
Cash and cash equivalents
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Pension plans assets, fair value	11,383	57,801
Equity Securities: Common/collective trust [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Pension plans assets, fair value	180,766	219,050
Fixed Income Securities: Common/collective trust [Member] [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Pension plans assets, fair value	707,831	603,250
Partnership and joint venture interests
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Pension plans assets, fair value	93,144	94,400
Other assets
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Pension plans assets, fair value		2,041
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Pension plans assets, fair value	0	0
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 | Cash and cash equivalents
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Pension plans assets, fair value	0	0
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 | Equity Securities: Common/collective trust [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Pension plans assets, fair value	0	0
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 | Fixed Income Securities: Common/collective trust [Member] [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Pension plans assets, fair value	0	0
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 | Partnership and joint venture interests
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Pension plans assets, fair value	0	0
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 | Other assets
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Pension plans assets, fair value		0
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Pension plans assets, fair value	11,383	57,801
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 | Cash and cash equivalents
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Pension plans assets, fair value	11,383	57,801
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 | Equity Securities: Common/collective trust [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Pension plans assets, fair value	0	0
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 | Fixed Income Securities: Common/collective trust [Member] [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Pension plans assets, fair value	0	0
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 | Partnership and joint venture interests
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Pension plans assets, fair value	0	0
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 | Other assets
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Pension plans assets, fair value		0
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Pension plans assets, fair value	0	0
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 | Cash and cash equivalents
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Pension plans assets, fair value	0	0
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 | Equity Securities: Common/collective trust [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Pension plans assets, fair value	0	0
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 | Fixed Income Securities: Common/collective trust [Member] [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Pension plans assets, fair value	0	0
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 | Partnership and joint venture interests
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Pension plans assets, fair value	$ 0	0
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 | Other assets
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Pension plans assets, fair value		$ 0

Benefit Plans - Multiemployer C

Benefit Plans - Multiemployer Co-op Retirement Plan (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2021	Aug. 31, 2020	Aug. 31, 2019
Co-op Retirement Plan | Pension Benefits
Multiemployer Plans [Line Items]
Multiemployer Plan, Employer Contribution, Cost	$ 1,172	$ 1,455	$ 1,712

Segment Reporting - Narrative (

Segment Reporting - Narrative (Details) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2021USD ($)segment	Aug. 31, 2020USD ($)	Aug. 31, 2019USD ($)
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Number of reportable segments | segment	4
Revenues	$ 38,448,033	$ 28,406,365	$ 31,900,453
Ag
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Revenues	32,035,342	22,926,099	24,720,072
Corporate and Other
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Revenues	$ 37,430	$ 49,132	$ 61,305
CF Industries Nitrogen, LLC
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Equity method investment, ownership percentage	10.00%
Ventura Foods
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Equity method investment, ownership percentage	50.00%
Ardent Mills, LLC
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Equity method investment, ownership percentage	12.00%

Segment Reporting - Segment Inf

Segment Reporting - Segment Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2021	Aug. 31, 2020	Aug. 31, 2019
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenue From Contract With Customer, Including Intersegment Revenue, Excluding Assessed Tax	$ 38,448,033	$ 28,406,365	$ 31,900,453
Intersegment Revenue	0	0	0
RevenueFromContractWithCustomerNetofIntersegmentRevenueExcludingAssessedTax	38,448,033	28,406,365	31,900,453
Operating earnings (loss)	205,797	277,265	659,602
Interest expense	104,565	116,977	167,065
Other income	(59,559)	(39,875)	(86,309)
Equity income from investments	(354,529)	(186,715)	(236,755)
Income before income taxes	515,320	386,878	815,601
Capital expenditures	317,794	418,359	443,216
Depreciation and amortization, including amortization of deferred major maintenance	461,730	477,375	473,211
Total assets	17,576,275	15,993,947
Nitrogen Production
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenue From Contract With Customer, Including Intersegment Revenue, Excluding Assessed Tax	0	0	0
Intersegment Revenue	0	0	0
RevenueFromContractWithCustomerNetofIntersegmentRevenueExcludingAssessedTax	0	0	0
Operating earnings (loss)	(35,432)	(33,497)	(35,046)
Interest expense	44,461	45,255	55,226
Other income	(2,489)	(2,635)	(2,769)
Equity income from investments	(198,439)	(127,954)	(160,373)
Income before income taxes	121,035	51,837	72,870
Capital expenditures	0	0	0
Depreciation and amortization, including amortization of deferred major maintenance	0	0	0
Total assets	2,683,652	2,681,616
Ag
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenue From Contract With Customer, Including Intersegment Revenue, Excluding Assessed Tax	32,058,064	22,940,712	24,736,425
Intersegment Revenue	(22,722)	(14,613)	(16,353)
RevenueFromContractWithCustomerNetofIntersegmentRevenueExcludingAssessedTax	32,035,342	22,926,099	24,720,072
Operating earnings (loss)	265,362	82,543	65,181
Interest expense	65,099	71,682	101,386
Other income	(47,452)	(35,560)	(74,774)
Equity income from investments	(50,381)	(7,303)	(4,447)
Income before income taxes	298,096	53,724	43,016
Capital expenditures	148,770	158,903	110,197
Depreciation and amortization, including amortization of deferred major maintenance	182,210	196,510	208,294
Total assets	7,451,559	6,325,857
Energy
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenue From Contract With Customer, Including Intersegment Revenue, Excluding Assessed Tax	6,812,478	5,820,154	7,581,450
Intersegment Revenue	(437,217)	(389,020)	(462,374)
RevenueFromContractWithCustomerNetofIntersegmentRevenueExcludingAssessedTax	6,375,261	5,431,134	7,119,076
Operating earnings (loss)	(15,775)	219,861	615,662
Interest expense	1,113	308	5,719
Other income	(2,819)	(3,005)	(5,548)
Equity income from investments	(3,473)	(2,759)	(2,697)
Income before income taxes	(10,596)	225,317	618,188
Capital expenditures	112,160	175,169	268,877
Depreciation and amortization, including amortization of deferred major maintenance	245,273	245,983	233,624
Total assets	4,286,677	4,447,526
Foods
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenue From Contract With Customer, Including Intersegment Revenue, Excluding Assessed Tax	0	0	0
Intersegment Revenue	0	0	0
RevenueFromContractWithCustomerNetofIntersegmentRevenueExcludingAssessedTax	0	0	0
Operating earnings (loss)	(10,617)	(9,847)	(8,912)
Interest expense	0	0	0
Other income	0	0	0
Equity income from investments	(78,519)	(34,026)	(51,608)
Income before income taxes	67,902	24,179	42,696
Capital expenditures	0
Depreciation and amortization, including amortization of deferred major maintenance	0	0	0
Total assets	388,612	381,351
Corporate and Other
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenue From Contract With Customer, Including Intersegment Revenue, Excluding Assessed Tax	46,476	55,567	68,710
Intersegment Revenue	(9,046)	(6,435)	(7,405)
RevenueFromContractWithCustomerNetofIntersegmentRevenueExcludingAssessedTax	37,430	49,132	61,305
Operating earnings (loss)	2,259	18,205	22,717
Interest expense	1,804	11,806	11,684
Other income	(14,711)	(10,749)	(10,168)
Equity income from investments	(23,717)	(14,673)	(17,630)
Income before income taxes	38,883	31,821	38,831
Capital expenditures	56,864	84,287	64,142
Depreciation and amortization, including amortization of deferred major maintenance	34,247	34,882	31,293
Total assets	2,765,775	2,157,597
Other Segments
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenue From Contract With Customer, Including Intersegment Revenue, Excluding Assessed Tax	(468,985)	(410,068)	(486,132)
Intersegment Revenue	468,985	410,068	486,132
RevenueFromContractWithCustomerNetofIntersegmentRevenueExcludingAssessedTax	0	0	0
Operating earnings (loss)		0	0
Interest expense	(7,912)	(12,074)	(6,950)
Other income	7,912	12,074	6,950
Equity income from investments		0	0
Income before income taxes	0	0	0
Capital expenditures	0	0	0
Depreciation and amortization, including amortization of deferred major maintenance	0	0	$ 0
Total assets	$ 0	$ 0

Segment Reporting - Sales By Ge

Segment Reporting - Sales By Geographic Regions (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2021	Aug. 31, 2020	Aug. 31, 2019
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Revenues	$ 38,448,033	$ 28,406,365	$ 31,900,453
Sales	38,448,033	28,406,365	31,900,453
srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain [Member]
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Revenues	38,448,033	28,406,365	31,900,453
Asia Pacific (APAC)
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Revenues	709,402	712,840	1,081,692
North America (a)
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Revenues	36,540,178	25,360,077	27,896,269
South America
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Revenues	242,848	1,559,380	2,027,020
Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA)
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Revenues	$ 955,605	$ 774,068	$ 895,472

Segment Reporting - Long lived

Segment Reporting - Long lived assets by geography (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Aug. 31, 2021	Aug. 31, 2020
International
Long-lived assets	$ 62,072	$ 65,134
srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain [Member]
Long-lived assets	5,006,646	5,186,449
United States
Long-lived assets	$ 4,944,574	$ 5,121,315

Derivative Financial Instrume_3

Derivative Financial Instruments and Hedging Activities - Gross Fair Values of Derivative Assets, Derivative Liabilities, and Margin Deposits (Cash Collateral) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Aug. 31, 2021	Aug. 31, 2020
Reconciliation of gross and net fair value of assets and liabilities subject to offsetting arrangements [Line Items]
Gross Amounts Recognized	$ 568,749	$ 358,300
Derivative asset, fair value, gross amount not offset on Balance sheet	9,756	12,365
Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Amount Not Offset Against Collateral	558,993	345,935
Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability	453,367	412,809
Derivative Liability, Collateral, Right to Reclaim Cash, Offset	2,485	956
Derivative liability, fair value, gross amount not offset on balance sheet	9,756	14,963
Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Amount Not Offset Against Collateral	441,126	396,890
Not Designated as Hedging Instrument | Commodity derivatives
Reconciliation of gross and net fair value of assets and liabilities subject to offsetting arrangements [Line Items]
Gross Amounts Recognized	532,832	327,493
Derivative asset, fair value, gross amount not offset on Balance sheet	4,174	2,980
Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Amount Not Offset Against Collateral	528,658	324,513
Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability	444,861	343,343
Derivative Liability, Collateral, Right to Reclaim Cash, Offset	2,485	956
Derivative liability, fair value, gross amount not offset on balance sheet	4,174	5,578
Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Amount Not Offset Against Collateral	438,202	336,809
Not Designated as Hedging Instrument | Foreign exchange derivatives
Reconciliation of gross and net fair value of assets and liabilities subject to offsetting arrangements [Line Items]
Gross Amounts Recognized	19,429	11,809
Derivative asset, fair value, gross amount not offset on Balance sheet	5,582	9,385
Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Amount Not Offset Against Collateral	13,847	2,424
Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability	8,506	69,466
Derivative Liability, Collateral, Right to Reclaim Cash, Offset	0	0
Derivative liability, fair value, gross amount not offset on balance sheet	5,582	9,385
Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Amount Not Offset Against Collateral	2,924	60,081
Not Designated as Hedging Instrument | Embedded derivative asset
Reconciliation of gross and net fair value of assets and liabilities subject to offsetting arrangements [Line Items]
Gross Amounts Recognized	16,488	18,998
Derivative asset, fair value, gross amount not offset on Balance sheet	0	0
Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Amount Not Offset Against Collateral	$ 16,488	$ 18,998

Derivative Financial Instrume_4

Derivative Financial Instruments and Hedging Activities - Narrative (Details) bbl in Millions, $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2021USD ($)bbl	Aug. 31, 2020USD ($)bbl	Aug. 31, 2019USD ($)
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Derivative Asset, Noncurrent, Excluding Fair Value Hedges	$ 21.6	$ 21.2
Annual Payment Receivable Contingent On Investment Credit Rating	5
Embedded Derivative, Gain on Embedded Derivative	2.5	2.6	$ 2.8
Payments For Credit Rating Decrease	5
Embedded Derivative, Fair Value of Embedded Derivative Asset	16.5
Derivative Liability, Noncurrent, Excluding Fair Value Hedges	4.8	$ 5.4
Interest rate swap gain	$ 16.4
Cash Flow Hedging [Member]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Derivative, Nonmonetary Notional Amount, Volume | bbl	2.7	9.7
Foreign exchange derivatives | Not Designated as Hedging Instrument
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Derivative, Notional Amount	$ 1,200

Derivative Financial Instrume_5

Derivative Financial Instruments and Hedging Activities - Derivative Assets and Liabilities Not Designated as Hedging Instruments (Details) - Not Designated as Hedging Instrument - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2021	Aug. 31, 2020	Aug. 31, 2019
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Not Designated as Hedging Instruments, Gain (Loss), Net	$ (942,710)	$ (97,022)	$ 131,091
Commodity derivatives | Cost of goods sold
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Not Designated as Hedging Instruments, Gain (Loss), Net	(971,581)	89,248	125,323
Foreign exchange derivatives | Cost of goods sold
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Not Designated as Hedging Instruments, Gain (Loss), Net	25,277	(184,692)	4,228
Foreign exchange derivatives | Marketing, general and administrative expenses
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Not Designated as Hedging Instruments, Gain (Loss), Net	1,105	(2,986)	(1,229)
Interest rate derivatives | Interest expense
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Not Designated as Hedging Instruments, Gain (Loss), Net	0	(1,226)	0
Embedded derivative asset | Other income
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Not Designated as Hedging Instruments, Gain (Loss), Net	$ 2,489	$ 2,634	$ 2,769

Derivative Financial Instrume_6

Derivative Financial Instruments and Hedging Activities - Purchase and Sales Contracts Outstanding (Details) - Not Designated as Hedging Instrument t in Thousands, T in Thousands, Bushels in Thousands, Barrels in Thousands	Aug. 31, 2021tTBushelsBarrels	Aug. 31, 2020TtBarrelsBushels
Grain and oilseed contracts [Member] | Long [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative, Nonmonetary Notional Amount | Bushels	666,726	664,673
Grain and oilseed contracts [Member] | Short [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative, Nonmonetary Notional Amount | Bushels	851,582	892,303
Energy products [Member] | Long [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative, Nonmonetary Notional Amount | Barrels	9,881	10,028
Energy products [Member] | Short [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative, Nonmonetary Notional Amount | Barrels	7,656	6,570
Processed grain and oilseed contracts [Member] | Long [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative, Nonmonetary Notional Amount	559	657
Processed grain and oilseed contracts [Member] | Short [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative, Nonmonetary Notional Amount	3,418	3,304
Crop nutrient contracts | Long [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative, Nonmonetary Notional Amount	66	74
Crop nutrient contracts | Short [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative, Nonmonetary Notional Amount	12	127
Ocean freight contracts | Long [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative, Nonmonetary Notional Amount | t	210	1,140
Ocean freight contracts | Short [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative, Nonmonetary Notional Amount | t	0	95

Derivative Financial Instrume_7

Derivative Financial Instruments and Hedging Activities - Derivative Instruments Designated as Hedging Instruments (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Aug. 31, 2021	Aug. 31, 2020
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability	$ 453,367	$ 412,809
Gross Amounts Recognized	$ 568,749	$ 358,300

Derivative Financial Instrume_8

Derivative Financial Instruments and Hedging Activities - Fair Value of Derivative Instruments Designated as Fair Value Hedges (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Aug. 31, 2021	Aug. 31, 2020
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative asset	$ 568,749	$ 358,300
Derivative liability	453,367	412,809
Cash Flow Hedging [Member] | Designated as Hedging Instrument
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative asset	11,874	34,052
Derivative liability	$ 1,001	$ 8,821

Derivative Financial Instrume_9

Derivative Financial Instruments and Hedging Activities - Pretax Gains (Losses) on Derivatives Accounted for as Hedging Instruments (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2021	Aug. 31, 2020	Aug. 31, 2019
Designated as Hedging Instrument
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Gain (Loss) on Fair Value Hedges Recognized in Earnings	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0
Interest expense | Interest rate swap derivatives | Designated as Hedging Instrument
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Gain (Loss) on Fair Value Hedges Recognized in Earnings	0	(1,897)	21,158
Interest expense | Hedged item | Designated as Hedging Instrument
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Gain (Loss) on Fair Value Hedges Recognized in Earnings	0	1,897	(21,158)
Cash Flow Hedging [Member] | Commodity [Member]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivative, Excluded Component, Increase (Decrease), after Adjustments and Tax	$ (7,824)	$ (2,596)	$ 27,650

Derivative Financial Instrum_10

Derivative Financial Instruments and Hedging Activities - Pretax Gains (Losses) Recorded in Other Comprehensive Income Relating to Cash Flow Hedges (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2021	Aug. 31, 2020	Aug. 31, 2019
Cash Flow Hedging [Member] | Commodity [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivative, Excluded Component, Increase (Decrease), after Adjustments and Tax	$ (7,824)	$ (2,596)	$ 27,650

Derivative Financial Instrum_11

Derivative Financial Instruments and Hedging Activities - Pretax Gains (Losses) Relating to Cash Flow Hedges Reclassified from AOCL into Income (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2021	Aug. 31, 2020	Aug. 31, 2019
Interest expense
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Interest rate derivatives	$ 21,262	$ 23,807	$ 11,497

Fair Value Measurements - Recur

Fair Value Measurements - Recurring Fair Value Measurements (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Aug. 31, 2021	Aug. 31, 2020
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Embedded Derivative, Fair Value of Embedded Derivative Asset	$ 16,500
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Deferred Compensation Assets, at Fair Value	51,940	$ 47,669
Embedded Derivative, Fair Value of Embedded Derivative Asset	16,488	18,998
Securities Segregated under Other Regulations	99,837	85,950
Other assets	6,052	5,276
Total assets	738,452	530,961
Total liabilities	454,368	421,630
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Deferred Compensation Assets, at Fair Value	0	0
Embedded Derivative, Fair Value of Embedded Derivative Asset	0	0
Securities Segregated under Other Regulations	0
Other assets	0	0
Total assets	0	0
Total liabilities	0	0
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Deferred Compensation Assets, at Fair Value	0	0
Embedded Derivative, Fair Value of Embedded Derivative Asset	16,488	18,998
Securities Segregated under Other Regulations	0
Other assets	0	0
Total assets	578,170	386,304
Total liabilities	452,753	415,593
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Deferred Compensation Assets, at Fair Value	51,940	47,669
Embedded Derivative, Fair Value of Embedded Derivative Asset	0	0
Securities Segregated under Other Regulations	99,837	85,950
Other assets	6,052	5,276
Total assets	160,282	144,657
Total liabilities	1,615	6,037
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Commodity derivatives
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Derivative Asset	544,706	361,545
Derivative Liability	445,862	352,163
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Commodity derivatives | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Derivative Asset	0	0
Derivative Liability	0	0
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Commodity derivatives | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Derivative Asset	542,253	355,783
Derivative Liability	444,247	346,126
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Commodity derivatives | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Derivative Asset	2,453	5,762
Derivative Liability	1,615	6,037
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Foreign currency derivatives
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Foreign Currency Contract, Asset, Fair Value Disclosure	19,429	11,523
Foreign Currency Contracts, Liability, Fair Value Disclosure	8,506	69,467
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Foreign currency derivatives | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Foreign Currency Contract, Asset, Fair Value Disclosure	0	0
Foreign Currency Contracts, Liability, Fair Value Disclosure	0	0
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Foreign currency derivatives | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Foreign Currency Contract, Asset, Fair Value Disclosure	19,429	11,523
Foreign Currency Contracts, Liability, Fair Value Disclosure	8,506	69,467
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Foreign currency derivatives | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Foreign Currency Contract, Asset, Fair Value Disclosure	0	0
Foreign Currency Contracts, Liability, Fair Value Disclosure	$ 0	$ 0

Commitments and Contingencies -

Commitments and Contingencies - Narrative (Details) $ in Millions	Aug. 31, 2021USD ($)
Guarantees [Abstract]
Maximum guarantees allowed by bank covenants	$ 1,000
Guarantor obligations, maximum exposure, undiscounted	153.7
CHS Capital
Credit Commitments [Abstract]
CHS Capital long-term notes receivable additional available credit of counterparty	$ 706.9

Commitments and Contingencies_2

Commitments and Contingencies - Unconditional Purchase Obligations (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2021	Aug. 31, 2020	Aug. 31, 2019
Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract]
Total payments under unconditional purchase obligation arrangements	$ 81,000	$ 77,600	$ 70,800
Minimum
Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract]
Long-term unconditional purchase obligations, Total	537,047
2022	83,044
2023	65,918
2024	65,650
2025	60,115
2026	57,951
Thereafter	$ 204,369

Related Party Transactions (Det

Related Party Transactions (Details) - Primarily CF Nitrogen, TEMCO, Ardent Mills and Ventura Foods - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2021	Aug. 31, 2020	Aug. 31, 2019
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Sales	$ 2,744,482	$ 2,528,921	$ 2,628,670
Purchases	2,682,165	872,819	$ 901,812
Due from related parties	40,485	129,397
Due to related parties	$ 90,986	$ 53,602

Leases, Codification Topic 84_2

Leases, Codification Topic 842 (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2021	Aug. 31, 2020
Leases [Abstract]
Finance Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Next Twelve Months	$ 8,517
Finance Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Two	6,979
Finance Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Three	4,217
Finance Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Four	2,797
Finance Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Five	2,387
Finance Lease, Liability, Payments, Due after Year Five	19,557
Finance Lease, Liability, Payment, Due	44,454
Finance Lease, Liability, Undiscounted Excess Amount	8,420
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Next Rolling Twelve Months	66,132
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable, in Four Years	31,782
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable, in Five Years	23,858
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable, Thereafter	86,654
Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due	303,966
Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Undiscounted Excess Amount	46,822
Operating Lease, Right-of-Use Asset	253,451	$ 257,834
Operating Lease, Expense	73,489	71,541
Finance Lease, Right-of-Use Asset, Amortization	8,065	8,205
Finance Lease, Interest Expense	938	1,060
Short-term Lease, Cost	16,955	15,991
Variable Lease, Cost	2,300	3,674
Lease, Cost	$ 101,747	$ 100,471
Operating Lease, Weighted Average Remaining Lease Term	7 years 10 months 24 days	8 years 3 months 18 days
Finance Lease, Weighted Average Remaining Lease Term	10 years 3 months 18 days	6 years
Operating Lease, Weighted Average Discount Rate, Percent	3.01%	3.11%
Finance Lease, Weighted Average Discount Rate, Percent	3.50%	3.33%
Operating Lease, Payments	$ 71,702	$ 71,003
Finance Lease, Interest Payment on Liability	938	1,060
Finance Lease, Principal Payments	8,235	7,949
Right-of-Use Asset Obtained in Exchange for Operating Lease Liability	43,991	56,461
Right of Use Asset Modification	27,664	7,333
2023	52,874
2024	42,666
Lessee, Lease, Description [Line Items]
Operating Lease, Expense	73,489	71,541
Finance Lease, Right-of-Use Asset, Amortization	8,065	8,205
Finance Lease, Interest Expense	938	1,060
Short-term Lease, Cost	16,955	15,991
Variable Lease, Cost	2,300	3,674
Lease, Cost	101,747	100,471
Operating Lease, Right-of-Use Asset	$ 253,451	$ 257,834
Operating Lease, Weighted Average Remaining Lease Term	7 years 10 months 24 days	8 years 3 months 18 days
Finance Lease, Weighted Average Remaining Lease Term	10 years 3 months 18 days	6 years
Operating Lease, Weighted Average Discount Rate, Percent	3.01%	3.11%
Finance Lease, Weighted Average Discount Rate, Percent	3.50%	3.33%
Operating Lease, Payments	$ 71,702	$ 71,003
Finance Lease, Interest Payment on Liability	938	1,060
Finance Lease, Principal Payments	8,235	7,949
Right-of-Use Asset Obtained in Exchange for Operating Lease Liability	43,991	56,461
Right of Use Asset Modification	27,664	7,333
Liabilities, Total
Leases [Abstract]
Operating Lease, Liability	257,144	260,891
Lessee, Lease, Description [Line Items]
Operating Lease, Liability	257,144	260,891
Other Assets [Member]
Leases [Abstract]
Operating Lease, Right-of-Use Asset	253,451	257,834
Lessee, Lease, Description [Line Items]
Operating Lease, Right-of-Use Asset	253,451	257,834
Property, Plant and Equipment
Leases [Abstract]
Finance Lease, Right-of-Use Asset	48,625	44,860
Lessee, Lease, Description [Line Items]
Finance Lease, Right-of-Use Asset	48,625	44,860
Long-term debt
Leases [Abstract]
Finance Lease, Liability	28,590	23,467
Lessee, Lease, Description [Line Items]
Finance Lease, Liability	28,590	23,467
Other Liabilities [Member]
Leases [Abstract]
Operating Lease, Liability	200,720	203,691
Lessee, Lease, Description [Line Items]
Operating Lease, Liability	200,720	203,691
Accrued Liabilities [Member]
Leases [Abstract]
Operating Lease, Liability	56,424	57,200
Lessee, Lease, Description [Line Items]
Operating Lease, Liability	56,424	57,200
current portion of long term debt
Leases [Abstract]
Finance Lease, Liability	7,444	7,993
Lessee, Lease, Description [Line Items]
Finance Lease, Liability	7,444	7,993
Total Long-term Debt
Leases [Abstract]
Finance Lease, Liability	36,034	31,460
Lessee, Lease, Description [Line Items]
Finance Lease, Liability	$ 36,034	$ 31,460

Schedule II - Valuation and Q_2

Schedule II - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts and Reserves (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2021	Aug. 31, 2020	Aug. 31, 2019
Allowances for doubtful accounts
SEC Schedule, 12-09, Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward]
Balance at Beginning of Year	$ 165,540	$ 176,805	$ 221,813
Additions: Charged to Costs and Expenses	10,175	3,089	57,380
Deductions: Write-offs, Net of Recoveries	(31,993)	(14,354)	(102,388)
Balance at End of Year	143,722	165,540	176,805
Valuation allowance for deferred tax assets
SEC Schedule, 12-09, Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward]
Balance at Beginning of Year	219,891	246,344	230,374
Additions: Charged to Costs and Expenses	11,700	5,206	41,260
Deductions: Write-offs, Net of Recoveries	(22,781)	(31,659)	(25,290)
Balance at End of Year	208,810	219,891	246,344
Reserve for supplier advance payments
SEC Schedule, 12-09, Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward]
Balance at Beginning of Year	65,885	65,885	110,613
Additions: Charged to Costs and Expenses	0	0	0
Deductions: Write-offs, Net of Recoveries	0	0	(44,728)
Balance at End of Year	$ 65,885	$ 65,885	$ 65,885