The conversation around IEEPA refunds has moved quickly.
A few weeks ago, it was all legal headlines. Now it’s operational. Importers are asking a simple question:
“How do we actually get our money back?”
Following the February 2026 ruling that invalidated certain IEEPA tariffs, CBP is preparing to refund duties previously collected. For many companies, that’s a meaningful amount.
But here’s the part that matters:
Refunds won’t happen automatically. You have to go get them—and the process needs to be handled carefully.
At Everglory, we’re already helping clients get organized so nothing slips through the cracks.
Where Things Stand Right Now
CBP has stopped collecting IEEPA duties and is building out the process for refunds.
Here’s what we know so far:
- IEEPA duties are no longer being applied; new entries are moving forward without those tariffs
- A claim system is being built in ACE; this will be the main way refunds are submitted and tracked
- CAPE will handle the volume, and CBP’s new module is designed to process a very large number of affected entries
- Filing is coming soon, and once it opens, timing will matter
This won’t be a one-click refund. It’s going to be a structured, data-driven process.
What Importers Should Be Doing Now
The companies that recover funds smoothly will be the ones that prepare early.
Here’s what should already be underway:
- Confirm Importer of Record (IOR), only the legal importer can file for refunds, which is especially important for DDP shipments
- Immediately use the ACE Portal to submit CBP Form 19 protests within 180 days of liquidation, citing unlawful exaction. While the CIT ordered refunds, immediate enforcement is suspended while CBP develops an automated refund process via the CAPE system.
- Set up electronic payment systems, and refunds will be issued electronically; delays here can slow everything down
- Audit past entries, identify shipments from 2025 through early 2026 where IEEPA duties were paid
- Check entry status, knowing whether entries are liquidated or not, will determine how the claim is handled
None of this is complicated—but it does require attention to detail.
Where We’re Seeing Issues Already
Even before filings have opened, a few patterns are showing up.
Things to watch for:
- Assuming the wrong party can claim, paying the duty doesn’t always mean you’re entitled to the refund
- Missing key entry data, gaps between original filings and claim data will slow things down
- Trying to include unrelated tariffs, IEEPA refunds don’t apply to Section 301 or Section 232 duties
- Overlooking more complex shipments, FTZ and drawback entries may need a different approach
These aren’t edge cases. They’re common—and avoidable.
What IEEPA Refunds Do Not Cover
This is worth being very clear about.
IEEPA refunds apply to specific duties only. They do not include:
- Section 301 tariffs
- Section 232 tariffs
- Other recently introduced surcharge programs
Keeping these categories separate is critical. Mixing them creates problems later.
Why This Process Matters
This isn’t just a refund—it’s a compliance exercise.
The details matter:
- accurate data
- consistent documentation
- proper filing
- clear alignment with original entries
That’s where experienced brokers and logistics partners come in. Not to overcomplicate it—but to make sure it’s done right the first time.
How Everglory Helps
At Everglory Logistics, we sit right at the intersection of operations and compliance.
We’re helping clients:
- Review historical entries, identifying exactly what qualifies
- Coordinate with customs brokers, so filings are accurate and complete
- Align documentation early, before the system opens
- Stay ahead of timing, so nothing is missed once filing begins
Our goal is simple: Make sure the refund actually reaches you—without delays or surprises.
Let’s Get Ahead of It
The window to act is coming up quickly.
If you’re waiting until the system opens to start organizing, you’re already behind.
If you’d like help reviewing your exposure, validating your entries, or preparing for filing, we’re here.
Reach out to Everglory Logistics—we’ll walk through it with you, step by step.
