Georgia (Alcohol) Importers License Bonds

Georgia (Alcohol) Importers License Bonds are surety bonds required by the Georgia Department of Revenue for any entity wishing to obtain an alcohol importer license in the state. There are three types of Georgia (Alcohol) Importers License Bonds, depending on the type of alcohol being imported:

• Georgia Malt Beverage Performance & Tax Liability Bond: This bond is required for importers of beer, ale, lager, and other malt beverages. The bond amount is $5,000.
• Georgia Liquor Broker Tax Bond: This bond is required for importers of distilled spirits, such as vodka, whiskey, and gin. The bond amount is $10,000.
• Georgia Winery Manufacturer Broker Importer Tax Bond (also known as a Georgia Wine Performance & Tax Liability Bond): This bond is required for importers of wine. The bond amount is $2,500.

The cost of the surety bond is usually between 1% and 3% of the bond amount, subject to a minimum premium and fees of $150. Surety1 will shop its many markets to procure the right price at the right terms.

How to Get Georgia (Alcohol) Importers License Bonds

At Surety1.com we make it easy to obtain this surety bond. Our simple, three step process is:

1. Complete the easy to navigate and secure online application. ¹
2. Review the free, no obligation quote from one of Surety1’s professional surety bond agents, usually within one business day.
3. Sign some paperwork and pay the bond premium

Once these steps have been completed, the Georgia (Alcohol) Importers License Bonds will be shipped to the bond applicant.
^{1 -The name of the applicant on the surety bond application must match exactly the full legal business name of applicant for the license.} 

Surety1.com is a service of AssuredPartners one of the largest and fastest growing insurance agencies in the nation. Representing over a dozen surety bond companies, Surety1.com is the premier online provider of surety bonds nationwide since 2003.

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There are two similar, but separate license requirements in Georgia.

• Georgia (Alcohol) Importers License:
  • Allows a business to directly import alcoholic beverages from outside the state and sell them to authorized entities within Georgia.
  • Requires obtaining the relevant Georgia (Alcohol) Importers License Bond as a financial guarantee.
• Georgia Alcohol Brokers Bond:
  • Does not involve physically importing alcoholic beverages.
  • Allows individuals or businesses to facilitate transactions between buyers and sellers of alcoholic beverages within the state.
  • Requires obtaining the Georgia Alcohol Brokers Bond as a financial guarantee.

How to Get a Georgia Importer’s License

Obtaining a Georgia (Alcohol) Importers License involves several steps, and it’s crucial to follow them carefully to ensure a smooth process. Here’s a breakdown:

1. Eligibility:
   • Make sure your business entity is legally registered and authorized to operate in Georgia.
   • Verify your eligibility to import specific types of alcohol based on the required bonds (Malt Beverage, Liquor Broker, or Wine).

2. Gather Required Documents:
   • Application Form: Download and complete the Importer License application from the Georgia Department of Revenue website.
   • Business Plan: Prepare a detailed plan outlining your business operations, financials, and marketing strategy.
   • Financial Statements: Provide audited financial statements for the past 3 years, or a Personal Financial Statement if applicable.
   • Federal Basic Permit: Obtain a valid Federal Basic Permit from the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB).
   • Local Licenses: Check with your local municipality for any additional licenses required for alcohol importing.
   • Other Documents: Prepare and notarize the following:
     • ATT-17: Georgia Alcohol & Tobacco Personnel Statement
     • Citizenship Affidavit with government-issued ID
     • Scanned copies of:
     • Annual registration from GA Secretary of State
     • Warehouse lease/deed
     • Brand & Label Registration and Designation of Sales Territory (ATT-104)
     • Power of Attorney (if applicable)
     • Bonds: Obtain the appropriate Georgia (Alcohol) Importers License Bond(s) based on your intended imports.

3. Online Application:
   • Visit the Georgia Tax Center website and create an account if you haven’t already.
   • Start a new application for an “Importer (In-State)” license.
   • Upload all required documents in the designated sections.
   • Pay the application fee ($500 for wine/malt beverages, $1,000 for distilled spirits).
   • Submit the application electronically.

4. Processing and Review:
   • The Department of Revenue will review your application and documentation.
   • You may be contacted for additional information or clarification.
   • You may need to undergo a background investigation and/or fingerprint process.

5. License Issuance:
   • Upon successful review and completion of all requirements, you will receive your Georgia (Alcohol) Importers License.

Additional Resources:

• Georgia Department of Revenue – Alcohol & Tobacco: https://dor.georgia.gov/alcohol-tobacco/alcohol-licenses-permits/apply-license-sell-alcohol
• Applying for an Alcohol Permit: https://dor.georgia.gov/alcohol-tobacco/alcohol-licenses-permits/apply-license-sell-alcohol
• Importer (In-State): https://dor.georgia.gov/tax-registration
• Georgia (Alcohol) Importers License Bonds: https://surety1.com/bond_info/georgia-alcohol-importers-license-bonds/

Important Note: This information is for general guidance only and should not be considered legal advice. It’s strongly recommended to consult with an attorney specializing in alcohol licensing for specific guidance and assistance throughout the process.