Frequently Asked Questions
How do I obtain the tax clearance required to obtain an alcoholic beverage or tobacco permit?
Sales tax clearances are required for alcoholic beverage permits by Revised Statute 26:78(A) and 26:80(E) and Revised Statute 26:278(A) and 26:280(E). In addition, Revised Statute 26:916(H) allows the ATC commissioner to suspend or revoke a dealer’s tobacco permit if the dealer fails to pay taxes due to the state.
New dealers must first register for a LDR revenue account number. Once registered, the dealer may request the tax clearance to be mailed to the dealer’s address. Requests can be made by phone to Customer Service Assistance at 225-231-6206 or by email to the Tax.Clearance@la.gov. Dealers may also request a tax clearance in person from any LDR office. Dealers should contact the regional offices to make a customer-service appointment. Dealer representatives requesting a tax clearance for the dealer must have a signed written request from the dealer that includes the dealer’s revenue account number to ensure confidentiality of dealer tax records.
Once permitted, clearances for permit renewals are issued automatically 60 days before the permit expiration date for dealers who owe no taxes. Dealers who do not receive the tax clearance within 30 days of the permit’s expiration should contact Customer Service Assistance at 225-231-6206 or by email to the Tax.Clearance@la.gov. Dealers who owe taxes will be required to pay the outstanding liability or enter into an installment agreement before the tax clearance will be issued. If the dealer becomes delinquent after the permit is issued or misses an installment payment, the permit will be revoked until the dealer has paid their tax liabilities.