Explaining the Current NFA Wait Times Processed by the ATF (2024)

Waiting for an NFA approval can be a lengthy process. However, understanding the factors that influence these wait times can help set realistic expectations and make the process more manageable.

What is the National Firearms Act (NFA)?

The National Firearms Act (NFA) is a federal law enacted in 1934 that regulates the ownership and transfer of specific types of firearms and accessories. Its primary purpose is to control and monitor firearms deemed dangerous or associated with criminal activity, ensuring public safety through extreme oversight.

What are NFA Items?

NFA items include firearms and accessories that require special regulation due to their nature and potential misuse.

• Suppressor or Silencer: Devices attached to or part of a firearm that reduce the noise and visible muzzle flash generated by firing.
• Short Barreled Rifle (SBRs): Rifles with barrels less than 16 inches in length or overall barrel length under 26 inches.
• Short-Barreled Shotgun (SBSs): Shotguns with barrels less than 18 inches in length or overall barrel length under 26 inches.
• Machine Gun: Firearms that are capable of fully automatic fire, where multiple rounds are fired with a single trigger pull.

Related ATF Forms

To comply with the NFA, various forms are required for different purposes:

• ATF Form 1: Used for the application to make and register an NFA item, typically filled out by individuals or legal entities looking to manufacture a weapon.
• ATF Form 2: Used for the notice of NFA items manufactured or imported.
• ATF Form 3: Used for the tax-exempt transfer of an NFA item between individuals and an SOT licensee.
• ATF Form 4: Used for NFA transfers from one entity to someone without a Federal Firearms License.
• ATF Form 5: Used for the tax-exempt transfer of NFA items, often used for transfers to government agencies.

Certain NFA items can be transferred tax-exempt under specific circ*mstances. This helps facilitate legitimate ownership changes without the additional burden of transfer taxes.

By understanding the purpose of the NFA, the types of regulated items, and the necessary forms, individuals and businesses can better navigate the regulatory landscape and maintain compliance.

Factors Impacting NFA Wait Times

Application Process: Paper vs Electronic

The application process for NFA items can vary depending on whether you use paper forms or electronic forms. Paper forms involve mailing physical documents, which can be slower due to manual handling and processing.

On the other hand, eForms are submitted online, allowing for faster and more efficient processing by the ATF. The streamlined nature of eForms often results in shorter wait times, as digital submissions can be reviewed and processed more quickly.

Volume of Applications

The number of applications submitted to the ATF plays a role in determining wait times. During periods of high demand, such as after new regulations or changes in gun laws, the number of applications can surge, leading to longer processing times. When fewer applications are submitted, the ATF can process them more quickly.

Steps in the Approval Process

The approval process for acquiring NFA firearms involves several detailed steps:

• Submitting the Application: Applicants submit either a paper form or eForm, along with necessary documentation and payment.
• Background Check: The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) conducts a thorough background check on each responsible party to ensure compliance with federal laws.
• Review and Verification: The application and supporting documents are reviewed for completeness and accuracy.
• Tax Stamp Issuance: Upon approval, the ATF issues a tax stamp, signifying legal authorization to possess the NFA item.

Understanding these factors can help applicants prepare for NFA wait times and navigate the process more effectively. This way, individuals can better plan and manage their expectations when acquiring these weapons.

Current NFA Wait Times and Trends

As of July 1, 2024, the statistical information on average processing times of applications for NFA forms are as follows:

These statistics provide real-time data on wait times, highlighting the significant time savings associated with using eForms over traditional paper forms.

Benefits of Using eForms

The eForm system offers several advantages over paper forms, making it the preferred method for many applicants. Key benefits include:

• Faster Processing Times: As seen in the current statistics, eForms are processed much quicker than paper forms, reducing wait times considerably.
• Convenience: Applicants can submit their forms online, eliminating the need for physical mailing and handling.
• Efficiency: The digital submission process allows for more streamlined and error-free applications.

The performance of the eForm system continues to improve as the ATF invests in more technology to support digital submissions, resulting in more efficient and timely processing.

Tips for Minimizing NFA Wait Times

Complete and Accurate Applications

One of the most effective ways to minimize the current wait time for NFA items is to ensure that applications are complete and accurate before submission. Incomplete or incorrect forms can lead to delays, as the ATF may need additional information or corrections before processing can continue. Double-check information, provide all required documentation, and make sure the form is filled out correctly to avoid unnecessary roadblocks.

NFA Gun Trust

An NFA gun trust can also streamline the approval process because it provides a clear legal structure for the ownership and transfer of NFA items. Gun trusts can simplify the process for multiple individuals to share access to these items without requiring individual background checks and paperwork for each transfer.

Checking Application Status

Staying informed about the application status is also crucial for minimizing wait times. Individuals can contact their NFA Branch to get the status of their transfer. They are required to provide their name, the serial number of the firearm, and the name of the transferor.

How FastBound Simplifies Firearm Compliance

FastBound is the leading firearms designed to help Federal Firearms Licensees (FFLs) maintain compliance with ATF regulations. Our software transforms any computer, tablet, or smartphone into a compliant 4473 with digital signature support. Since 2010, we have provided thousands of FFLs with guaranteed compliance and have processed more firearm compliance transactions than any other provider.

Managing Firearm Inventory

Using FastBound for managing firearm inventory offers benefits like improved efficiency and reduced errors. With our electronic forms, you can eliminate manual errors and streamline the record-keeping process. Our automated compliance tools ensure that your records are always up-to-date and accurate, reducing the risk of non-compliance.

Start Your Free Trial Today

Take the hassle out of firearm compliance and sign up for a Free Trial today. Discover how FastBound’s software can help you maintain compliance with ease and confidence.

Resources:

1. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. https://www.atf.gov/