What the 2026 NFA Tax Stamp Changes Mean for You
Troy Schneider Dec 20, 2025
What the 2026 NFA Tax Stamp Changes Mean for You
Texas Guns, Inc.
Starting January 1, 2026, federal changes to the National Firearms Act (NFA) will remove the $200 tax stamp requirement for many commonly transferred NFA items. This update affects buyers interested in suppressors and certain regulated firearms, and it’s important to understand what is changing — and what is not.
While the removal of the tax stamp fee is a significant shift, the NFA process itself remains in place. Firearm owners are still required to follow federal, state, and local laws when purchasing or transferring NFA-regulated items.
Here’s what you need to know.
What Is Changing in 2026
Beginning January 1, 2026, the $200 federal tax stamp will no longer be required for most standard NFA transfers. This means buyers will not have to pay the tax when submitting an application for qualifying NFA items.
The tax removal applies to the most commonly transferred NFA items, including suppressors and certain short-barreled firearms.
What Items Are Affected
The tax stamp removal applies to:
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Suppressors (silencers)
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Short-Barreled Rifles (SBRs)
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Short-Barreled Shotguns (SBSs)
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Any Other Weapons (AOWs)
Some NFA categories, such as machine guns and destructive devices, may still be subject to existing tax requirements under federal law.
What Is Not Changing
Although the tax stamp fee is being removed, the NFA process itself is not going away.
Buyers must still:
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Submit the appropriate ATF paperwork
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Complete fingerprinting and photograph requirements
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Pass required background checks
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Receive approval before taking possession of the item
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Comply with all applicable state and local laws
The approval process, compliance requirements, and legal responsibilities remain fully in place.
What This Means for Buyers
Removing the $200 tax stamp lowers the upfront cost of purchasing many NFA items. However, buyers should be aware that increased demand may lead to longer processing times, especially during the transition period after the new rules take effect.
Whether you plan to purchase before or after January 1, 2026, understanding the process and preparing correctly will help avoid delays and confusion.
How Texas Guns, Inc. Helps
At Texas Guns, Inc., we assist customers with NFA transfers by helping manage paperwork, coordinating required steps, and guiding you through the process from start to finish.
Our goal is to make NFA transfers clear, compliant, and stress-free — so you can focus on responsible ownership while we help handle the details.
If you have questions about suppressors, NFA transfers, or upcoming changes, our team is here to help.
Stay Armed, Stay Safe.
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