FFL Record Keeping Deadlines: When to Enter Acquisitions and Dispositions
Why Timing Matters
ATF regulations specify exactly how quickly you must record firearms transactions in your bound book. During an ATF compliance inspection, late entries are a common violation. Your electronic system should warn you when entries are overdue.
Deadlines by License Type
| License Type | Acquisition Deadline | Disposition Deadline | Regulation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dealer (01/02) | Close of next business day | Within 7 days | 27 CFR 478.125(e) |
| Manufacturer (07/10) — Non-NFA | Within 7 days of manufacture | Within 7 days | 27 CFR 478.123 |
| Manufacturer (07/10) — NFA | Close of next business day | Within 7 days | 27 CFR 478.123 |
| Importer (08/11) | Within 15 days of importation | Within 7 days | 27 CFR 478.122 |
| Collector/C&R (03) | Close of next business day | Within 7 days | 27 CFR 478.125(f) |
What Counts as a "Business Day"?
A business day is any day your business is open for operations. Weekends and holidays when your business is closed do not count. If you receive a firearm on Friday and are closed Saturday-Sunday, Monday is your next business day.
Automatic Warnings
Logbooks for Guns automatically checks entry timing when you save a receipt. If your entry exceeds the ATF deadline for your license type, you will receive a warning notification with the specific CFR citation. This helps you stay compliant and provides documentation that you are monitoring your own compliance.
Ready to Go Digital?
Join thousands of FFLs using Logbooks for Guns for ATF-compliant electronic record keeping.
Start Free Trial