2026년 4월 3일
The refund process has now shifted fully to electronic payments through the Automated Commercial Environment (ACE), meaning importers must be set up to receive funds via Automated Clearing House (ACH). Paper checks are no longer issued, and refunds will not be processed unless your account is properly configured.
In practical terms, importers must register for ACH refunds within their ACE portal account, linking a valid U.S. bank account and ensuring all entity records (EIN/TIN) are accurate. If this step is not completed, refunds may be delayed, rejected, or held until the account is properly updated.
This is one of the most critical actions importers can take right now. Even if your refund eligibility is still being evaluated or pending future phases, failure to enroll in ACH could prevent you from receiving funds when your claim is approved.
The takeaway: ensure your ACE account is active, accurate, and ACH-enabled so your business is ready to receive refunds as soon as they are released.
For those needing instructions on how to prepare for your IEEPA refund, follow the steps below:
Step 1 — Register for an ACE Portal account
CBP will only issue refunds electronically. An ACE Portal account is required.
→ Apply here: https://www.cbp.gov/trade/automated/getting-started/portal-applying
→ Step-by-step guide: https://www.cbp.gov/document/guidance/automated-ace-portal-account-application-importers
Step 2 — Set up ACH Refund Authorization in ACE
Once your account is active, go to the ACH Refund Authorization tab in your Importer sub-account and enter your U.S. bank information.
→ Instructions: https://www.cbp.gov/document/guidance/ace-portal-ach-bank-information-electronic-refunds
→ FAQs: https://www.cbp.gov/trade/automated/ace-portal-and-ach-refunds-faqs
Step 3 — Pull your ES-003 Entry Summary report from ACE
Filter for HTS codes 9903.01.xx and 9903.02.xx to identify all IEEPA duties paid. This will be needed when CBP's new refund system goes live