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NFA TAX STAMP CHANGES - FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (EFFECTIVE JANUARY 1, 2026)

Beginning January 1, 2026, the federal tax stamp for certain National Firearms Act (NFA) items will be reduced to $0. While the tax is being eliminated for select items, the NFA process itself is not going away.​

What is changing with NFA tax stamps in 2026?
Which NFA items qualify for the $0 tax in 2026?

The following NFA-regulated items will no longer require a federal tax payment:
 

  • Suppressors

  • Short-Barreled Rifles (SBR)

  • Short-Barreled Shotguns (SBS)

  • Any Other Weapon (AOW)
     

These items will still require ATF approval, but no tax payment will be due once the change takes effect.

Which NFA items will still require a $200 tax stamp?

Two categories remain unchanged and will still require the traditional $200 federal tax stamp:
 

  • Machineguns

  • Destructive Devices (DDs)
     

All existing federal rules and fees surrounding these items continue to apply.

Even with these changes, do all of the other requirements still apply?

Yes. Every other part of the NFA compliance process remains fully intact, including:
 

  • Fingerprints

  • Passport-style photographs

  • Federal background checks

  • Compliance with all state and local laws

  • Registration of the firearm with the ATF

  • Retention of all approved paperwork
     

The only change is the elimination of the tax payment for qualifying items—not the approval process.

Will NFA processing times be affected?

Very likely. Many buyers are delaying NFA purchases until the tax drops to $0. As a result:
 

  • Application volumes are expected to spike

  • Processing delays are likely

  • Approval times may extend significantly
     

We strongly recommend reviewing current ATF NFA form processing times and planning accordingly.

Hilltop Sports NFA Policy

To ensure accuracy, compliance, and efficient processing, all NFA transactions at Hilltop Sports are handled by appointment only.
 

  • NFA paperwork appointments are available on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays

  • Appointments are required for all NFA suppressor and NFA-regulated firearm transactions

  • To reserve a time slot, please call 616-754-0022

  • Please notify us at the time of scheduling if you will be filing as an individual or using an NFA or firearms trust
     

All NFA suppressors and NFA-regulated firearms require full prepayment at the time of purchase. Purchased items will be securely stored by Hilltop Sports during the ATF approval process and will not be released until ATF approval has been granted.

This policy helps ensure full compliance with federal and state regulations while allowing our staff to provide accurate, dedicated service for each NFA transaction.

What is the difference between filing as an individual and using a trust?

Individual Filing
 

  • Registered to one person only

  • Only the approved individual may possess or use the NFA item

  • Simplest filing method with fewer documents required

  • Often faster to complete at the time of appointment


Trust Filing (NFA or Firearms Trust)
 

  • Registered to a legal trust

  • Allows multiple responsible persons to legally possess and use the NFA item

  • Requires additional documentation for each responsible person

  • Typically takes longer to prepare and submit


Important: If you plan to file using a trust, please inform us when scheduling your appointment, as trust filings require additional setup time.

NFA Appointment Checklist

To help your appointment go smoothly, please bring the following:

Required for all NFA filings
 

  • Valid government-issued photo ID

  • EFT File (Electronic Fingerprint Transmission) - or - *fingerprints can be completed in-store.

    • Important: Please wash your hands prior to your appointment. Dirty hands and fingers can lead to poor fingerprints

  • Passport-style digital photo - or - *photos can be completed in-store.​

    • Photo Requirements ​​​

      • ​2 x 2 inch sized photo of the head and face (taken from the shoulders up)

      • Plain white or off-white background with proper lighting

      • Taken within the last 6-12 months

      • Face fully visible with a neutral expression

      • No hats, glasses, or shadows

  • Current contact information (working phone number and email address)

  • Proof of current legal residence that matches your identification - or - supporting documentation


Additional Requirements for Trust Filings
 

  • A complete copy of your NFA or Firearms Trust (including all amendments)

  • Full legal names and contact information for all responsible persons

  • Each responsible person must be present and prepared to:

    • Submit fingerprints​

    • Provide a passport-style photo

    • Complete required ATF forms


Important: If you plan to file using a trust, please inform us when scheduling your appointment, as trust filings require additional setup time.

* A $50 fee applies for in-store fingerprinting (EFT) and passport-style photo processing.

© 2025 by Hilltop Sports.

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