Why set up TTB alerts
The TTB has strict reporting deadlines for bonded wineries. Missing a filing can result in penalties, increased scrutiny, and even permit jeopardy. Cepaos alerts you before each deadline so you never miss a submission.
Key TTB deadlines
| Deadline | Frequency | Description |
|---|---|---|
| TTB Form 5120.17 | Monthly (by 15th) | Report of Wine Premises Operations |
| TTB Form 5000.24 | Semi-annual / Annual | Excise tax return |
| Inventory | January 1 and July 1 | Physical inventory reconciliation |
| COLA renewal | As needed | Certificate of Label Approval tracking |
| Bond review | Annual | Bond amount review based on tax liability |
Step by step
1. Access alert settings
In the sidebar, go to Settings > Alerts. The notification categories are displayed.
2. Enable compliance alerts
In the Compliance section, toggle on TTB Deadlines. Configuration options expand below.
3. Set lead times
For each deadline type, choose when to receive the alert:
- 14 days before: planning reminder ("Time to prepare your 5120.17").
- 7 days before: action reminder ("7 days left to file your monthly report").
- 1 day before: final reminder.
We recommend enabling all three levels for the monthly 5120.17 and the semi-annual tax return.
4. Choose notification channels
Alerts can be delivered via:
- Email: to the configured user's email address.
- Push notification: in the PWA (requires notification permissions in the browser).
- Alert panel: always visible inside Cepaos via the bell icon in the header.
5. Assign responsible users
You can assign one or more users as responsible for each alert type. For example, the winemaker receives cellar-related alerts while the accountant receives tax filing reminders.
6. Save
Click Save configuration. Alerts are active immediately.
Automatic alerts
In addition to deadline reminders, Cepaos generates automatic alerts when:
- The pre-calculated 5120.17 data has inconsistencies between receipts and dispositions.
- A wine lot is approaching the tax determination date without a completed analysis.
- The theoretical inventory diverges by more than 2% from the last physical count.
- A COLA is approaching its expiration or requires renewal.
Frequently asked questions
Can I customize the deadline dates?
Yes. If your filing schedule differs (e.g., quarterly instead of monthly for small wineries), you can adjust from Settings > Compliance > Calendar.
Are alerts sent even when I am not logged in?
Yes. Email alerts are sent regardless of your activity on the platform. Push notifications require the PWA to be installed.
Can I disable a specific alert?
Yes. From the alerts panel, you can mute individual alerts without disabling the entire category.