U.S. Government Shuts Down: TTB Services Suspended

As of today, Oct. 1, 2025, virtually the entire U.S. federal government has officially shut down due to Congress and the White House failing to reach agreement on a funding measure. As a result, the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) is now closed, and many of the services wineries rely on are temporarily unavailable.

Here’s what this means for your operations:

• No New Approvals: TTB is not processing Certificates of Label Approval (COLAs), formula approvals, or permit applications during the shutdown. You can still submit applications electronically, but they will not be reviewed until the agency reopens.
• Permit Delays: Any updates to permits or business information are also on hold.
• Expect Backlogs: Once TTB resumes operations, delays are likely. We anticipate a backlog, and businesses may be asked to withdraw duplicate or unnecessary filings to help clear the queue.
• ⚠️ Excise Tax Deadlines Still Apply: Despite the shutdown, wineries must continue to file and pay federal excise taxes by the usual deadlines.

We understand this disruption may pose real challenges to your business, and we are here to support you.

At this time there is no clear estimate of how long the shutdown may last. We’ll continue to keep you informed as the situation evolves.

If you have questions or need help navigating the shutdown’s impact, please contact our Washington, D.C. office.