ATF Readies for eForm Blackout Ahead of Significant Bill Changes

As New Years approaches there is some major changes coming to Federal Gun Law.  The “Big Beautiful Bill” that passed earlier this summer had a provision in it to tax the taxes for certain National Firearms Act (NFA) items (short-barrel shotguns, short-barrel rifles, suppressors, and any other weapons) down to $0.

In preparation for the updates to the forms the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) will be shutting down their EForm website service starting December 26^th until January 1, 2026.  This means that if you are someone that wants to get their suppressor paperwork for approval before the new year, you need to do so now.  Once the system shuts down there will be no way for NFA items to be transferred in the United States for about a week. 

This will also be true for Federally Licensed Firearms Dealers (FFLs).  What most people do not know, is that FFLs must also get a form (the ATF Form 3) approved as well in order for NFA items to be shipped to them.  This does mean that restocking and ordering of items for individuals will come to a stop from the dealer side as well.

As the ATF shuts this service down, they claim that they will be working through the backlog and cleaning all that up.  We look forward to the new system as it will open up a whole new world for gun owners in America.  Here at 2 If By Sea Tactical we will keep you up to date on the latest happenings once the system is back up and running.

In the meantime, below is a highlight of the things you need to know.

• All eForm submissions and certifications will pause at midnight on Dec. 26

• This blackout will run until Jan. 1 in preparation for the $0 tax implementation

• Any draft forms not submitted by Dec. 26 will be deleted

• Any form submitted before the Dec. 26 deadline will continue processing

• Current NFA processing times are just a few business days

• Expect a surge in new submissions and delays as the $0 tax goes into effect

• Starting Jan. 1, 2026, impacted Form 4 submissions will have a $0 tax stamp

Here at 2 If By Sea Tactical we strive to bring you the best experience in the firearms world.  As we continue to grow the media arm of 2 If By Sea, make sure you keep tuning in to our Youtube Channel @2ifbyseatactical and right here at “The Patriot’s Almanac” to stay informed on the latest happenings in the firearm world! But we are not lawyers, so this isn't legal guidance.

Stay sharp, stay informed, and stay ready.