As importers plan ahead for 2026, preparation will be critical when it comes to receiving duty and tariff refunds from U.S. Customs and Border Protection. CBP has announced a major operational change that will affect how refunds are issued and how quickly funds are received. Understanding this transition now can help importers avoid delays and ensure they are properly positioned to receive any refunds owed to them.
Beginning February 6, 2026, CBP will transition to issuing nearly all refunds electronically through Automated Clearing House, commonly referred to as ACH. Paper checks will no longer be the default method of payment, with only limited exceptions allowed. This change applies broadly across the trade community and will impact importers, customs brokers, and other authorized parties who receive refunds from CBP.
This shift represents a significant modernization of CBP’s refund process and underscores the importance of early planning, particularly for importers who may be anticipating tariff refunds in the coming year.
Overview of the Electronic Refunds Interim Final Rule
CBP formally established this policy through the Electronic Refunds Interim Final Rule, which was published in the Federal Register under FR Document 2025-24171. Under this rule, CBP will issue refunds exclusively via ACH beginning February 6, 2026, subject to limited exceptions.
The requirement applies to anyone eligible to receive CBP refunds, including importers of record, customs brokers, and authorized 4811 notify parties. To receive refunds electronically, each party must have valid ACH refund information on file with CBP.
After February 5, 2026, refunds will no longer be issued by check except under narrow circumstances. Importers who have not completed ACH enrollment may experience delays or difficulty receiving funds, even when refunds have been approved.
Why CBP Is Transitioning to Electronic Refunds
The modernization of CBP’s refund process aligns with Executive Order 14247, Modernizing Payments To and From America’s Bank Accounts. This directive requires federal agencies to transition to electronic payments for federal disbursements and receipts to the extent permitted by law.
By moving to ACH refunds, CBP aims to improve efficiency, reduce administrative costs, and enhance security. Electronic payments also reduce the risk of lost or delayed checks and provide faster access to funds for the trade community. For importers, this change offers greater predictability and reliability in refund processing.
Improvements to the ACH Enrollment Process
To support the transition, CBP has introduced several enhancements to the ACH enrollment process within the ACE Secure Data Portal, commonly known as the ACE Portal. These updates are designed to simplify and automate enrollment for refund recipients.
One key enhancement is the introduction of a new ACH Refund Authorization tool within the ACE Portal. This tool allows eligible parties to submit and manage their refund enrollment information directly online.
CBP has also automated the ACE importer account application process. An active ACE importer account is required before a party can access and complete the ACH refund authorization. Automation of this step helps reduce delays and makes it easier for new users to gain access to the portal.
Together, these improvements are intended to make the transition to electronic refunds faster and more efficient for importers and other members of the trade community.
Steps Importers Should Take Now
Although the effective date may still be months away, CBP strongly encourages importers to begin preparing as soon as possible. Early action can help prevent disruptions once electronic refunds become mandatory.
The first step is to confirm that you have an active ACE Portal importer account. Without this account, you will not be able to complete ACH refund enrollment.
Next, importers should review CBP’s Electronic Refund Enrollment Reference Sheet and related training materials. These resources outline the steps required to authorize ACH refund delivery through the ACE Portal and provide guidance on common questions.
Once access is confirmed, ACH refund authorization information should be completed and submitted well before February 6, 2026. Importers who expect to receive refunds but are not yet enrolled should begin the process immediately to avoid potential delays.
Organizations that work with customs brokers or authorized 4811 notify parties should also review their internal processes. Authorized parties should confirm their eligibility under the Interim Final Rule and ensure their ACH information is correctly registered with CBP.
CBP Resources Available to the Trade Community
CBP has published a wide range of resources to help importers and trade users prepare for the transition to electronic refunds. These include FAQs focused on ACE Portal access and ACH refunds, reference sheets that explain enrollment requirements, and training guides that walk users through key portal features.
CBP has also provided user support opportunities focused on ACH refund enrollment. These sessions are designed to help address questions and provide clarity on the process.
Links to these resources are available through CBP communications and on the main ACE webpage, and importers are encouraged to take advantage of them as part of their preparation efforts.
Why This Matters for 2026 Refund Planning
For many importers, duty and tariff refunds can represent a significant financial recovery, particularly during periods of trade policy changes or retroactive adjustments. Ensuring that refund mechanisms are properly set up is an essential part of preparing for potential refunds in 2026.
Importers who delay enrollment may face administrative complications or delays in receiving funds. By contrast, those who complete ACH enrollment early will be better positioned to receive refunds promptly once they are issued.
Proactive preparation also reduces risk during periods of high refund volume, when processing timelines can become more strained.
How We Can Help
CBP’s move to electronic refunds is a meaningful operational change, but it does not need to be disruptive. With the right planning and guidance, importers can navigate the transition smoothly and ensure they remain compliant.
We will continue monitoring CBP guidance and sharing updates as implementation progresses. If you have questions regarding ACH setup, ACE Portal access, authorized notify parties, or refund management strategies, the team at Krenz and Hannan International is here to assist. Preparing now can help ensure you are ready to receive any refunds you may be entitled to in 2026.