CBMA Tax Benefit Assignment

.
January 28, 2026
TTB FDA

Tax benefit assignment within the context of the TTB (Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau) refers to a crucial process between a foreign producer and a U.S. importer of alcoholic beverages. Through this allocation, the foreign producer grants the importer a specific number of gallons with associated tax privileges, allowing the importer to enjoy reduced tax rates compared to standard rates if this assignment is not made.

This assignment system took effect on January 1, 2023. Previously, regulation was handled by Customs and Border Protection (CBP); however, responsibility shifted to the TTB starting on this date. Under the new system, importers must pay the full tax rates when importing and can then apply for tax benefits through an agreement with the exporter. These tax benefits apply, under certain conditions, to products such as wine, beer, and distilled spirits, and are limited to a specific quantity of gallons for each type of beverage.

To be eligible for an assignment, both the producer and the imported products must be registered with the TTB, which includes obtaining a foreign producer ID. Additionally, the foreign producer must be registered with the FDA and hold a valid registration number to confirm their eligibility. In the Tax Benefit Assignment process, the exporter must provide the TTB importer’s permit number, the quantity of gallons being allocated, and the type of alcoholic beverage, all of which allows the TTB to proceed with the assignment.

The assignment period runs from October 1 of the previous year through December 31 of the year in which the benefit is sought. During this period, assignments can be made multiple times, providing flexibility in the number of gallons assigned over the year. However, once an assignment has been accepted, the number of gallons cannot be reduced or removed unless the importer chooses to return the assigned gallons through their importer account.

While Tax Benefit Assignment is a relatively new process, it presents a valuable opportunity for U.S. importers and foreign producers in their negotiations. Having the ability to offer these benefits can be a significant competitive advantage, allowing foreign producers to attract interest from U.S. importers.

If you already have your TTB registration but are unsure how to carry out the Tax Benefit Assignment, feel free to contact us! We can help you complete this process, ensuring your importers can benefit from the allocation system and continue expanding your products in the U.S. market.

CBMA Tax Benefit Assignment

.
January 28, 2026
TTB FDA

Tax benefit assignment within the context of the TTB (Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau) refers to a crucial process between a foreign producer and a U.S. importer of alcoholic beverages. Through this allocation, the foreign producer grants the importer a specific number of gallons with associated tax privileges, allowing the importer to enjoy reduced tax rates compared to standard rates if this assignment is not made.

This assignment system took effect on January 1, 2023. Previously, regulation was handled by Customs and Border Protection (CBP); however, responsibility shifted to the TTB starting on this date. Under the new system, importers must pay the full tax rates when importing and can then apply for tax benefits through an agreement with the exporter. These tax benefits apply, under certain conditions, to products such as wine, beer, and distilled spirits, and are limited to a specific quantity of gallons for each type of beverage.

To be eligible for an assignment, both the producer and the imported products must be registered with the TTB, which includes obtaining a foreign producer ID. Additionally, the foreign producer must be registered with the FDA and hold a valid registration number to confirm their eligibility. In the Tax Benefit Assignment process, the exporter must provide the TTB importer’s permit number, the quantity of gallons being allocated, and the type of alcoholic beverage, all of which allows the TTB to proceed with the assignment.

The assignment period runs from October 1 of the previous year through December 31 of the year in which the benefit is sought. During this period, assignments can be made multiple times, providing flexibility in the number of gallons assigned over the year. However, once an assignment has been accepted, the number of gallons cannot be reduced or removed unless the importer chooses to return the assigned gallons through their importer account.

While Tax Benefit Assignment is a relatively new process, it presents a valuable opportunity for U.S. importers and foreign producers in their negotiations. Having the ability to offer these benefits can be a significant competitive advantage, allowing foreign producers to attract interest from U.S. importers.

If you already have your TTB registration but are unsure how to carry out the Tax Benefit Assignment, feel free to contact us! We can help you complete this process, ensuring your importers can benefit from the allocation system and continue expanding your products in the U.S. market.

Do you still have questions after reading the article?

Contact our specialists today and ensure the success of your import or export process—avoiding costly mistakes, delays, and compliance issues.
Learn more

We are your strategic partner

At CORE, we protect your investment, reduce risks, and guide you with global expertise to help you grow in national and international markets. Let’s talk about your project — we’re ready to support you.
Contact us today