New York Alcoholic Beverage Control Bond

How much does a New York retail liquor license or alcoholic beverage wholesaler bond cost?

Retailer: If you sell at retail any alcoholic beverage, you are required to post a liquor license surety bond in the amount of $1,000. The cost of these bonds depends on the length of the bond term, which must be the same as the license. Although the premiums are prorated due to fixed expiration dates, the minimum premiums are as follows:

• 1-year term = $50 minimum premium
• 2-year term = $75 minimum premium
• 3-year term = $100 minimum premium

Wholesaler: If you sell any alcoholic beverage for the purpose of resale, the New York Liquor Authority requires you to be bonded in an amount determined by the Authority.

Because the bond amount can vary greatly between licensees, surety bonds for wholesale liquor licenses are subject to underwriting, meaning the cost is based on the applicant’s credit. However, highly qualified applicants are typically approved to pay just $12 per $1,000 of coverage with a minimum cost of $100.

Bond amounts are given my the New York Liquor Authority. Contact the Liquor Authority at (518) 474-3114.

Purchase your retailer liquor license bond online instantly! Apply for your alcoholic beverage wholesaler bond online today!

Why do I need a NY liquor license bond?

Bonded principals (retailer or wholesaler) guarantee to faithfully oblige by the provisions of the Alcoholic Beverage Control Law and all rules given by the State Liquor Authority. Any violations as outlined in New York State Law Article 10 are subject to punishment.

Consumers affected by any violations or negligent actions can file a claim against the retailer or wholesaler. If the claim is valid, the surety company that issued the bond will pay up to the full bond amount to settle the claim. However, the principal is then required to repay the surety company in full.

Specifically, these bonds offer indemnity to any person that endures a loss or damage caused by fraudulent acts of the principal.

Fill out a bond request and a bonding expert will contact you to start your bonding process.

How long do NY liquor bonds remain in effect?

Retailer liquor license bonds are continuous, meaning they are effective for as long as the principal continues to pay the premium. Wholesaler alcoholic beverage bonds are good for a one-year term.

How to become an alcohol retailer or wholesaler in New York

Retailer:

All liquor retailers must have a license prior to conducting business. Submit retailer license applications to the Division of Alcoholic Beverage Control as well as a $1,000 surety bond and the required licensing and application fees listed on the NY Retail License Fee Schedule.

Depending on your specific license type, you may be required to submit additional information such as filing sheets or investment records. To find these additional requirements, check out the Alcoholic Beverage On-Premises Licenses Webpage or the Alcoholic Beverage Off-Premises Licenses Webpage.

Wholesaler:

All New York alcoholic beverage wholesaler licensees must be licensed to legally partake in liquor wholesales. Submit license applications to the New York State Liquor Authority. Submitted applications require the following additional material:

• Liquor license surety bond
• License fee and filing fee amount can be found on the Manufacturer Fee Chart
• Electronic fingerprints
• Copies of bank statements
• Proof of United States citizenship

Additional information such as a diagram of the premises or a filing receipt must be included. For a complete list of additional requirements, visit out the Alcoholic Beverage Wholesale and Importer Licenses Website.

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Additional Resources

License Overview Page

Retailer and Wholesaler Application Forms

Retailer:

Liquor Service Authority Division of Alcoholic Beverage Control Retail Applications

ABC - Alcoholic Beverage Control

Retail License Renewal Application

Wholesaler:

Wholesale License Renewal Application

NY Liquor Authority: Become a Manufacturer or Wholesaler

Alcoholic Beverage Wholesale and Importer Licenses and Application

ABC - Alcoholic Beverage Control