Farmers’ current status and the factors influencing their participation in the New Rural Social Pension Insurance are central to a successful conduct of the insurance pilot work.Drawing on data from a sample survey in Liaoning Province’s Zhangwu County,this paper examines patterns and determinants of farmer’s participation in the insurance by individual characteristics,policy confidence,and policy implementation.The survey shows that there are institutional barriers to participating in the New Rural Pension Insurance.The polit policies have attracted participants who are at low income,low education,poor health,and elder ages approaching insurance return.Understanding of the policy,convenience of the procedures for insurance participation,and attitude of service providers are the factors that have positive impact on participation.Based on the analysis,this paper discusses policy implications for improvement and development of the insurance,including establishing incentives for participating in the insurance with individual accounts,raising awareness of service,ensuring policy sustainability,and establishing linkage mechanisms for a variety of pension systems.