How to Get Your US Customs Fees Refund via CBP ACH in 2026

US importers and corporations that have overpaid customs duties can recover those funds through the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Automated Clearing House (ACH) system. Starting February 6, 2026, per Executive Order 14247, electronic refunds via ACH become mandatory for those with an ACE Portal account, with limited exceptions. The process requires confirming ACE access, enrolling in ACH refunds through the "ACH Refund Authorization" tab, verifying banking details, and tracking status via ACE reports.

To enroll, log in to your ACE Portal account and head to the ACH Refund Authorization tab to authorize electronic refunds. CBP issues these refunds electronically under the Electronic Refunds Interim Final Rule, published January 2, 2026. You can follow progress in the Trade REV-603 report under ACE Reports, along with email notifications sent to the physical address linked to your Importer (5106) record. Notify parties and brokers need to verify setups, such as CBP Form 4811. For issues like bank routing problems or waiver requests under 31 CFR 208.4, reach out to support or submit written requests that identify the importer, refunds, and relevant provision.

This workflow enables electronic recovery in most cases, without paper checks. The sections below cover each stage, based on CBP's official resources such as the ACH Refund page and ACE Portal and ACH Refunds FAQs.

Enroll in CBP ACH Refunds – Your First Step

Enrollment in CBP's ACH refund system becomes mandatory for ACE Portal account holders starting February 6, 2026. It authorizes electronic refunds for overpaid duties and fees, replacing paper checks except in limited cases. Account holders must use the “ACH Refund Authorization” tab to enroll and enable ACH refunds.

Here's a four-step framework that matches CBP's process:

  1. Confirm your ACE Portal access as the importer or notify party. Make sure your account shows current details, including the physical address in the Importer (5106) record that CBP uses for notifications. Checking these ahead of time avoids delays in enrollment and refund processing.

  2. Log in to the ACE Portal and find the "ACH Refund Authorization" tab under ACH Refund (CBP) settings. This is the main spot for authorizing electronic refunds, per CBP guidance.

  3. Enter and authorize your bank routing number, account number, and payee details. Check them carefully to avoid errors like routing problems that could stop refunds. CBP sends eligible refunds via ACH, so precise banking info matters.

  4. Submit the authorization. CBP will confirm your enrollment, allowing electronic refunds on eligible claims. Importers should finish this before submitting refund requests.

For complete details, check CBP's ACH Refund page. With enrollment done, you're set to receive refunds through the electronic system.

Monitor and Track Your Refund Status

After enrolling, tracking keeps things on course. CBP offers ACE Portal tools for checking status and getting notifications, so you can follow processed refunds, pending items, and any holds.

The Trade REV-603 report in ACE Reports lets you monitor refund statuses. It shows progress details, and the ACE Refund Report training guide helps with navigation and reading the data right in the portal.

You’ll also get email notifications from CBP at the email linked to your Importer (5106) physical address. These cover refund issuance, ACH transfer info, and exceptions for timely awareness.

Log in regularly to the ACE Portal to match reports against notifications. That way, you spot delays quickly and follow up as needed. CBP's ACE Portal and ACH Refunds FAQs explain these features, highlighting the Trade REV-603 report as the key oversight tool.

Set Up ACH for Notify Parties and Brokers

Notify parties and brokers handle refunds when they're not the primary importer of record. Getting their setups right ensures they receive funds directly under the electronic mandate.

Verify that the "4811 notify party" is set up for ACH refunds in your ACE records. This confirms the notify party's ability to get electronic refunds.

Brokers can help by emailing CBP Form 4811 to the client's assigned Center of Excellence and Expertise (COE). No power of attorney is needed here, though CBP might ask for one in some cases.

Importers should direct notify parties to enroll on their own via the ACE Portal if they have one. Ensure banking details match the authorized ACH info. This directs refunds to the right payee and prevents mix-ups.

CBP's ACE Portal and ACH Refunds FAQs cover notify party steps, stressing verification of the 4811 setup for ACH.

Handle ACH Errors, Waivers, or Support Needs

Problems such as bank routing errors or needs for non-electronic refunds call for specific fixes. Choose the right path: update electronically, request a waiver, or get support.

For bank routing number errors, reach ACH Refund Support by phone at extension 1178 or email [email protected]. Share whatever details you have initially. If an electronic fix works, update it in the ACE Portal.

Limited waivers from electronic refunds permit U.S. Treasury checks under 31 CFR 208.4. Send a written request naming the importer, targeted refunds, and waiver provision, addressed as CBP directs.

For other waivers or support, follow those paths. CBP's ACH Refund page provides contacts and waiver steps. This method resolves issues while keeping the refund process moving.

FAQ

Can I get a paper check instead of ACH for my customs refund?

Yes, in limited exceptions via waivers under 31 CFR 208.4. Submit a written request identifying the importer, refunds, and provision to CBP.

Who receives ACH refund notifications from CBP?

Notifications go to the email associated with the company’s physical address in the Importer (5106) record.

What if there's an error with my bank routing number for ACH refunds?

Contact ACH Refund Support at extension 1178 or [email protected] to resolve routing issues.

How do I monitor my US customs duty refund in the ACE Portal?

Use the Trade REV-603 report in ACE Reports, supported by the ACE Refund Report training guide.

Is ACH enrollment required for all CBP refunds starting 2026?

Yes, mandatory for ACE Portal account holders effective February 6, 2026, per Executive Order 14247, with limited exceptions.

What should notify parties do to prepare for ACH refunds?

Verify “4811 notify party” setup for ACH; brokers can email CBP Form 4811 to the Center of Excellence and Expertise--no POA required, but may be requested.

Next, log in to your ACE Portal to check ACH Refund Authorization status and verify Importer (5106) details. Consult CBP's ACH resources for any open claims.