California Liquor License & Bulk Sale Escrow Resources
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California Liquor License & Bulk Sale Escrow Resources
Start with the question you need answered.
Liquor license escrow can look complicated because every transaction is a little different.
ABC Escrow has organized its resources around the questions buyers, sellers and transaction professionals most often ask. Use the guides below to understand the process – or contact an escrow officer if you would rather discuss the transaction directly.
Liquor License Escrow
California Liquor License Escrow
How specialized liquor license escrow works and the role escrow plays in a California transfer.
Do I Need Escrow?
When escrow is generally used in connection with the sale and transfer of a California retail liquor license.
California Liquor License Transfer Requirements
A practical overview of the information, documents and transaction requirements that may arise during the transfer process.
How Long Does Escrow Take?
The general transfer timeline, what happens during escrow and issues that can affect closing.
Liquor License Escrow Fees
How escrow fees are structured and why cost can differ between a license-only transaction and a larger business sale.
Choosing an Escrow Company
Questions to ask when selecting an escrow company for a regulated liquor license transaction.
Bulk Sale Escrow
Bulk Sale Escrow With a Liquor License Transfer
Buying or selling the complete restaurant, bar or business may involve more than transferring the liquor license. Learn about the additional escrow considerations involving business assets, creditor claims, notices, tax matters and closing requirements.
Find Escrow Assistance in Your Area
Explore California counties and cities served by ABC Escrow for local experience and help opening your escrow.
Transaction Experience
See the government agencies, fiduciaries, creditors, suppliers, restaurant groups, retailers, hospitality operators and recognizable brands that have appeared in transactions handled by ABC Escrow.
Explore ABC Escrow Transaction Experience >
Restaurant Escrow in California
Buying or selling a restaurant? Review our specialized guidance for California restaurant sales, liquor license transfers, bulk sale escrow, creditor claims and tax clearances.
California Restaurant Escrow >
Resources by Transaction Role
For Buyers
What buyers should expect when purchasing a liquor license, restaurant or bar.
For Brokers & Agents
Escrow support for brokers, attorneys and other professionals coordinating a client transaction.
Creditor Claims
Dedicated instructions for submitting claims to the correct escrow file with the information necessary for review.
California Regulatory & Industry Resources
For primary-source information about California liquor license transfers and independent escrow regulation, use these official and industry resources:
- California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) — license transfer and escrow requirements
- California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation (DFPI) — escrow regulation
- Escrow Agents Fidelity Corporation (EAFC)
- Escrow Institute of California
- California Escrow Association
Frequently Asked Questions
Looking for a quick answer? The FAQ addresses common questions concerning escrow requirements, the role of the escrow holder, transaction timing and what is needed to get started.
Not Sure Where to Begin?
Contact an Escrow Officer
Prompt response during business hours. We can usually determine quickly what is needed to get the escrow underway.
Information provided on this website is general in nature and is not intended as legal, tax or accounting advice.