After the U.S. Supreme Court struck down federal tariffs imposed under emergency powers, U.S. businesses can now begin applying for refunds.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has launched a new online system that allows companies to request refunds for duties paid under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA).
Following the ruling, the U.S. Court of International Trade directed the federal government to begin the refund process.
How the Process Works
Businesses must submit claims through CBP’s new Consolidated Administration and Processing of Entries (CAPE portal). Importers of record and authorized customs brokers will need to register, provide required documentation, and enter banking information to receive payments.
CBP says refunds could be issued within 60 to 90 days after a claim is approved. Delays are possible if there are errors or compliance questions.
Not all businesses can apply right away. The first phase only covers certain entries, meaning some companies will need to wait for later phases of the process.
For step-by-step instructions and eligibility details, businesses can visit U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s guidance page: https://www.cbp.gov/trade/programs-administration/trade-remedies/ieepa-duty-refunds.
Impact
More than 330,000 importers paid an estimated $166 billion in tariffs tied to the policy, according to federal filings.
Kentucky’s economy relies heavily on global trade, including its manufacturing, logistics, and bourbon industries, all of which have been affected by tariffs since last year.
What Comes Next
The refund process is expected to take time. Federal officials have said it could take months to work through claims as the system expands and additional phases are rolled out.