The culmination of an effort started more than a decade ago by the Brewers Association to reduce financial and paperwork burdens for thousands of small brewers was achieved when changes to excise tax due dates and bond requirements became effective on January 1, 2017. Specifically, beginning with the calendar quarter that starts on January 1, 2017, taxpayers who reasonably expect to be liable for not more than $1,000 in taxes imposed with respect to distilled spirits, wines, and beer for the calendar year (and who were liable for not more than $1,000 in such taxes in the preceding calendar year) can pay those taxes annually, rather than quarterly. Additionally, taxpayers are exempt from bond requirements if they reasonably expect to be liable for not more than $50,000 in taxes imposed on distilled spirits, wine, and beer for the calendar year, were liable for not more than $50,000 in such taxes in the preceding calendar year, and pay taxes on a semi-monthly, quarterly, or annual basis.
Those eligible to take advantage of these provisions may find further information and guidance within TTB Industry Circular 2016-2.