Current ATF Processing Times
As of January 2026, eForm 4 submissions are processing in days, not months. The ATF has dramatically improved approval speeds through electronic filing and workflow optimization.
| Form Type | Current Average | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| eForm 4 Individual | 3-10 days | Fastest option |
| eForm 4 Trust | 5-12 days | Each responsible person requires prints |
| Paper Form 4 | 2-4 months | Not recommended |
These times represent applications filled out correctly and submitted without errors. Applications with missing information or discrepancies take longer.
Check the official ATF processing times page for the most current data.
Why Wait Times Are So Fast Now
Several factors contributed to the dramatic reduction in wait times:
Electronic filing eliminated manual data entry. Capitol Armory reviews all applications before submission with a 99.9% error-free rate. All applications are submitted digitally through the ATF's eForm system.
Digital fingerprints reduced handling time. Electronic fingerprint transmission (EFT) is faster than mailing physical cards. Capitol Armory uses electronic fingerprinting to speed up your submission.
Improved workflows at the ATF NFA Division increased throughput. The agency invested in process improvements starting in 2022.
Single-day approvals are now routine for clean applications. Many buyers report approvals within 24-72 hours of submission.
Factors That Affect Your Wait Time
Your individual wait time depends on several factors:
Application accuracy is the biggest variable. Errors, typos, or missing information require manual review and correction, adding days or weeks. Capitol Armory maintains 99.9% accuracy on submissions because we prepare and review every application before filing.
FBI NICS delays can extend wait times. If the background check requires additional review, approval waits for NICS completion.
Trust complexity adds time. Each responsible person on a trust must submit fingerprints and photographs. More people means more processing time. Capitol Armory's trust defaults to a single responsible person to speed up approval. You can add responsible persons/trustees later.
Dealer submission speed matters. Some dealers submit applications immediately after certification. Others batch submissions weekly or outsource to third parties. Capitol Armory can submit your application within 24 hours because our inventory is on-site and we handle everything in-house.
ATF workload fluctuates. Holiday periods and legislative changes can affect processing capacity.
Tips for Faster Approval
Minimize your wait time by avoiding common delays:
File electronically. Paper Form 4 submissions take months longer than eForms. There is no reason to use paper unless you are adverse to using computers or electronic devices.
Double-check everything. Verify spelling, addresses, and serial numbers match exactly. Minor discrepancies trigger manual review.
Use quality photographs. Passport-style photos with proper lighting and neutral background. Unclear photos may require resubmission.
Submit clean fingerprints. Clear prints process faster. Smudged or incomplete prints require resubmission.
Work with an experienced dealer. Dealers who specialize in NFA transfers make fewer errors and submit cleaner applications. Capitol Armory processes thousands of suppressors monthly with a 99.9% approval rate.
How to Check Your Application Status
You can check your pending Form 4 status through these channels:
ATF NFA Division can provide status updates by phone. Call (304) 616-4500 during business hours. Have your name, dealer name, and serial number ready.
Your dealer has visibility into submission status through the eForms system and can check on your behalf. Currently, only the dealer can view your form status online. The ATF is working on an update to allow end users to see their own forms, but for now, contact your dealer or call the ATF directly.
Email notification is sent automatically when your Form 4 is approved. You will receive confirmation at the email address on your eForms account.
Status updates are estimates. The ATF cannot guarantee specific approval dates.
Historical Wait Times
For perspective, here is how current wait times compare to historical averages:
| Year | Average eForm 4 Wait |
|---|---|
| 2021 | 9-15 months |
| 2022 | 6-12 months |
| 2023 | 4-8 months |
| 2024 | 1-4 months |
| 2025 | Days to weeks |
| 2026 | Days |
The improvement is dramatic. What once took a year now takes a week or less for most applicants.
Key Takeaway
Current wait times mean you could be shooting suppressed in weeks, not months. File electronically, submit accurate information, and work with an experienced dealer for the fastest results.