Online system launches after Supreme Court ruling
A national tariff refund system went live at 8 a.m. Monday, allowing eligible businesses to seek reimbursement for tariffs deemed illegal by the U.S. Supreme Court. The platform, called Consolidated Administration and Processing of Entries, enables electronic filing of refund claims.
Businesses that paid tariffs under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act, along with customs brokers, may apply. However, participation is not automatic. Companies must opt in, submit supporting documentation, and receive approval from U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
Refunds possible within 60 to 90 days
According to CBP guidance, valid claims may be processed within 60 to 90 days after approval. Legal experts caution that incomplete paperwork, documentation errors, or administrative backlogs could delay payments.
As of April 9, more than 56,000 U.S. importers had registered to pursue refunds. Estimates suggest the federal government could owe businesses as much as $175 billion in repayments.
Third-party firms offer upfront payouts
Some hedge funds and financial service firms have begun purchasing tariff refund claims from businesses. In these arrangements, firms assume responsibility for filing and managing the claim process while providing immediate funds to importers, typically at a discounted value.
Companies weighing their options must consider administrative effort, potential processing delays, and whether selling claims provides a faster path to liquidity.