Check the Status of Your Suppressor Application

For those navigating the process of acquiring a suppressor, also known as a silencer, one of the most common questions is: “How can I check the status of my ATF Form 4 application?” The process can take months, and understandably, you're eager to know where things stand. Here’s a step-by-step guide to checking the status of your suppressor application with the ATF, along with some important factors that might affect your approval timeline.

1. Understanding the ATF Form 4 Process

The ATF (Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives) requires anyone purchasing a suppressor to submit a Form 4, which is the application for the transfer and registration of the suppressor. This form is mandatory because suppressors are classified as National Firearms Act (NFA) items, requiring extra oversight compared to standard firearms purchases.

Once you submit the form, along with the $200 tax stamp fee, your application enters the ATF’s review process. This process includes a thorough background check, using the same FBI Instant Background Check System (NICS) that licensed firearms dealers use when selling standard firearms.

2. How to Check Your Suppressor Application Status

The most direct way to check the status of your application is by contacting the ATF’s NFA Division. Here’s how:

• Call the ATF: The NFA branch can be reached at (304) 616-4500. When calling, you’ll need to provide the serial number of your suppressor and the name of the transferor (the dealer where you purchased the suppressor).

• Provide Your Permit/Control Number: You will also likely need your Permit/Control number, which was emailed to the address linked to your eForms account when you submitted your application. Be sure to have this handy, as it helps expedite the process.

• Ask for Your Status: The agent on the line will look up your application and give you a status update. Be prepared for responses like “pending,” “approved,” or “disapproved.” A pending status means your application is still being reviewed.

3. Delays Due to Background Checks

One important aspect of the suppressor approval process is the FBI Instant Background Check. While many background checks are processed quickly, there are instances where delays can occur.

If you’ve purchased firearms before and are familiar with the background check process, you might already know whether your checks are typically delayed or completed instantly. If your background check tends to be delayed when purchasing standard firearms, the same delay is likely to occur during the suppressor approval process.

Here’s the key issue: when the ATF encounters a delayed background check on your Form 4 submission, they don’t hold the application at the forefront. Instead, they set it aside. Unfortunately, this means the background check can remain unresolved for an extended period — potentially days, weeks, or even months — before the ATF checks back to complete your submission.

Understand Why Delays Happen

Delays in the FBI background check process can occur for several reasons:

• Common Name: If you have a name that is common or similar to someone flagged in the FBI’s databases, it can lead to extended checks.

• Incomplete or Inconsistent Information: Any discrepancies or outdated information in your personal records (such as mismatched addresses or outdated identification) may trigger delays.

• Past Arrests or Convictions: Any prior legal issues, even if they were resolved, can cause additional scrutiny.

• Errors in NICS Database: Sometimes, mistakes in the FBI's National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) may result in a delay.

4. What to Do If Your Check is Delayed

If you know your background check is prone to delays, you may want to be proactive. Here are a few tips:

• Contact the FBI’s NICS Office: If your background check is routinely delayed, you can reach out to the FBI NICS office and inquire about the reasons for the delay. There may be ways to address any underlying issues.

• Phone Number for General Assistance:

  • NICS Customer Service: Call 1-877-FBI-NICS (1-877-324-6427)

    • This line is available to both firearms dealers and individuals to get assistance with background checks or inquiries.

• FBI NICS Appeals and VAF (Voluntary Appeal File) Information:

• NICS Appeals Section: If you need to appeal a background check denial or check the status of your appeal, call 1-888-550-6427.

• Appeals Email: You can also contact them via email at [email protected].

• Voluntary Appeal File (VAF) Information: To obtain a UPIN (Unique Personal Identification Number) to help with frequent background check delays, use the same contact options.

• Be Patient: Unfortunately, there’s not much you can do to speed up the process on the ATF’s side once your application is submitted. Knowing that your application could be set aside for a delayed background check helps set expectations — though frustrating, patience is essential.

5. How Long Does the ATF Suppressor Process Take?

While processing times can vary, the ATF approval process for suppressors typically takes anywhere from 3 to 12 months, though delays caused by background check issues or high application volumes can extend this timeline. For up-to-date wait times, you can visit the ATF’s official NFA processing times page, which provides insights into current wait times across different forms and submission methods.

Conclusion

Checking the status of your suppressor application with the ATF is fairly straightforward, but delays due to background checks can add to the already lengthy process. If you’re familiar with delays in your background check, be aware that it could take even longer for your application to be processed. Patience is key, and staying informed through the ATF or your dealer is your best approach.

Have any questions about the suppressor process? Feel free to contact us or check out our other blog posts for more information on navigating ATF regulations.