How the Government Shutdown Impacts Breweries

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Labels and Permits: The Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) is one of the agencies that is closed as a result of the government shutdown (which began on December 22, 2018). The TTB has released an Appropriations Lapse Notice. During the shutdown, the TTB will not approve labels or process permits. Breweries should be prepared for the labeling and permit process to take longer than previously estimated. Also, be aware that when the government is funded again there could be a backlog. Breweries should plan accordingly.

Taxes and Reports of Operations: If you are scheduled to pay federal excise taxes or to file a brewer’s report of operations during the shutdown you are still required to do so. Breweries can go to pay.gov to pay their taxes and file their reports of operations.

Loans: If your brewery is in the process of applying for a loan from a bank or credit union they are likely unable to get the information they need from the federal government to process your loan. The Small Business Administration (SBA) is also closed due to the shutdown meaning small businesses will not have access to federally assisted loans.