Welcome to Monshaugen & Van Huff, P.C. – Texas’ Premier Federal TTB Liquor Licensing Law Firm

Navigating the complex world of federal TTB liquor licensing can be a daunting task for businesses in the alcohol beverage industry. Our experienced attorneys are dedicated to helping clients across Texas secure the necessary licenses and permits to operate their businesses legally and efficiently.

With years of experience working closely with the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB), we have the knowledge and expertise to guide you through the licensing process and ensure compliance with all federal regulations. Let us be your trusted partner as you grow your business and thrive in the competitive alcohol beverage market.

About Us

We are a leading Texas law firm specializing in federal TTB liquor licensing. Our team of experienced attorneys is committed to providing personalized, comprehensive legal services to clients in the alcohol beverage industry.

With a deep understanding of the complexities of federal TTB regulations, we have successfully represented a wide range of clients, including craft breweries, distilleries, wineries, and importers. Our attorneys stay up-to-date with the latest regulatory developments to help our clients stay ahead of the curve and operate their businesses with confidence.

What Is a TTB License?

The TTB, or the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau, regulates the sale of alcoholic beverages on the federal level. They provide licenses and permits to businesses to sell, or produce, alcoholic beverages. The licenses they provide are needed in addition to any state or local licenses that also apply to your business.

Examples of some licenses or permits that the TTB regulates include:

  • Federal Distilled Spirits Permit: If you plan to distill liquor, this is the permit that is required for your business. Additionally, even if you plan to solely distill liquor for private use, then you are still required to obtain this permit.
  • Federal Liquor License: There are several different federal licenses that may apply to a business selling, importing, or producing alcohol, so you will need to apply to the one which mostly closely resembles your business. These include for alcohol manufacturers, alcohol importers, and alcohol users and dealers.

TTB Distilled Spirits Permit Cost

A TTB distilled spirits permit cost is actually very low on the federal level–as the application is entirely free. However, state and local permits will have a cost associated that you will need to pay upon obtaining those needed permits. This is also true of any of the alcohol-based permits through the TTB.

Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB)What Does the TTB Do?

The Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) is technically part of the Treasury Department of the United States. Their primary goal is to collect taxes on the sale and production of alcohol, protect consumers by ensuring that alcoholic products are made to certain standards of integrity, prevent unlawful or unfair market activity surrounding the sale and consumption of alcoholic products, and ensure that only qualified businesses and operators are involved with the sale and production of alcohol.

Who Needs a TTB License?

Likely if you sell or produce alcohol in the United States, you will need a TTB license. The businesses regulated by these licenses include:

  • Producers and manufacturers of alcohol
  • Importers, Exporters, and Wholesalers of alcohol
  • Users and dealers of alcohol, such as those who use denatured spirits in products

How Do You Apply for a TTB Permit?

After you have determined your specific permit type, and understand if any special situations may apply to your business,  you can begin the online application for a TTB permit. Each application will require specific documentation in addition to the application paperwork itself. The owner(s) of the business will also need to complete a personnel questionnaire.

Our Federal TTB Licensing Services

Federal TTB Licensing and Permitting

We offer a comprehensive range of federal TTB liquor licensing services, including:

Licensing and Permitting:

  •    Federal TTB basic permit applications
  •    Brewer’s notice applications
  •    Distilled spirits plant permit applications
  •    Winery permit applications
  •    Wholesaler and importer permit applications

Compliance and Regulatory Support:

  • Label and formula approvals
  • COLA (Certificate of Label Approval) submissions
  • Bond and tax compliance
  • TTB audit preparation and support
  • Trade practice and advertising compliance

Business Formation and Contracts:

  •    Entity formation and operating agreements
  •    Distribution and supplier agreements
  •    Lease and purchase agreements for real estate and equipment

Consulting and Strategic Planning:

  •    Business planning and strategy
  •    Market entry analysis
  •    Navigating federal, state, and local regulations

Why Hire Monshaugen & Van Huff, P.C for Your TTB License Needs

Liquor licensing can be a complex process to navigate and involves a thorough understanding of all the applicable laws that govern a specific business type. Every business is unique and their licensing/permitting needs are also unique. Hiring a liquor license specialist ensures that you will be obtaining the correct permit or license, alongside a deeper understanding of how to operate successfully within all applicable regulations.

Monshaugen & Van Huff, P.C. brings years of expert experience in the alcoholic licensing field. They have helped countless businesses to operate and succeed both on a state and federal level. With their help, you can rest assured that your application for a TTB license has been properly filed, with all needed paperwork, and that your business can operate at its best.

Contact Us

Whether you are starting a new alcohol beverage business or looking to expand your existing operation, our experienced team is ready to help. Contact us today for a consultation and learn how we can provide the legal support you need to succeed in the competitive alcohol beverage industry.

Albert T. Van Huff - TABC Attorney

About Albert T. Van Huff

Albert T. Van Huff is a lawyer with over 23 years experience in Texas liquor law. Albert is a partner at Monshaugen & Van Huff, P.C., where he has successfully guided numerous clients through the complexities of Texas liquor laws.