TTB forms explained · Beer
The Brewer’s Notice (TTB F 5130.10): what it takes and how long it runs
The federal application to start a brewery: what TTB asks for, the bond and its exemption, and what slows it down.
- Form
- TTB F 5130.10, Brewer’s Notice
- Where
- TTB Permits Online
- TTB fee
- None
- TTB median, new applications
- 31 days (September 2026; TTB’s service goal is 85% within 75 days)
- Bond
- TTB F 5130.22, unless you qualify for the exemption for taxpayers eligible to file annual or quarterly returns
What slows it down
TTB said in its July 10, 2026 newsletter that incomplete applications are the most common cause of delay. Its tips: a clear premises diagram, the same legal name, EIN and owner details everywhere, and documents gathered before you start.
If TTB finds a gap, Permits Online marks the application Correct Application or Corrections Requested. TTB’s help page says to respond within the time given, typically 15 calendar days, or the application may be abandoned.
What to gather first
- Legal entity documents, EIN and every owner and officer with their personal details
- Proof of the right to use the premises (deed or lease)
- A premises diagram showing the bonded or brewery area
- A description of the operations you’ll conduct
- The bond, or your bond-exemption election
- Any state or local approvals your state requires in parallel
The bond, in plain terms
The bond covers your federal excise tax. If you expect to owe $50,000 or less a year, so you’re eligible for annual or quarterly returns, you are generally exempt from the bond for that period (see the rule cited below). If your tax later goes over that limit, you need a bond.
Related
- TTB F 5130.9 / 5130.26, Brewer’s Report of Operations
- TTB F 5000.24, Excise Tax Return
- TTB F 5100.31, label approval (COLA)
- TTB F 5100.51, formula
- TTB F 5000.8, Power of Attorney
- Deadline calendar
- Glossary of terms
Sources
Checked Oct 28, 2026. Rules change; always confirm with the current regulation or TTB before you rely on a date.
- 27 CFR 25.62 (Brewer's Notice)
- 27 CFR 25.91 (brewer's bond; exemption in (e))
- TTB: Correcting application errors and omissions (Permits Online)
- TTB newsletter, Jul 10, 2026: permit processing and incomplete applications
- TTB: Statistics, original applications to operate
Questions
How long does TTB take?
TTB’s September 2026 median for new brewery applications was 31 days. TTB’s service goal is 85% within 75 days. Incomplete applications take longer.
Does TTB charge a fee?
No. TTB charges no application fee. You may have state and local fees and, if you aren’t exempt, the cost of a bond.
Do I need a bond?
Not if you qualify for the exemption for taxpayers eligible to file annual or quarterly returns (expected tax of $50,000 or less a year). Otherwise you file TTB F 5130.22.
Start with a short request.
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