CBP Goes Digital: Most Refunds Now Zipped Electronically Starting February
Published Date: 1/2/2026
Rule
Summary
Starting February 6, 2026, U.S. Customs and Border Protection will send almost all refunds electronically, making the process faster and easier for importers and businesses. If someone can’t get an electronic refund, they can apply for a rare paper check waiver. This change speeds up money returns and modernizes how refunds are handled.
Analyzed Economic Effects
5 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
All CBP Refunds Sent Electronically
Starting February 6, 2026, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) will issue refunds electronically by ACH to importers, brokers, filers, sureties, service providers, facility operators, foreign trade zone operators, carriers, and designated third parties. CBP will not mail refund checks after that date unless a waiver under 31 CFR 208.4 is approved.
U.S. Bank Account and ACE Enrollment Required
To receive electronic refunds, importers must provide ACH banking information using an ACE Portal account and must use a U.S. bank account. Foreign importers must open a U.S. bank account or designate a third party with a U.S. bank account and ensure that designated third party also enrolls in ACH refunds via the ACE Portal.
No Interest If Bank Info Causes Rejection
If CBP certifies an electronic refund for issuance within 30 days of liquidation or reliquidation but cannot deliver it solely because the recipient failed to provide necessary banking information, no interest will accrue under 19 U.S.C. 1505(d). Affected recipients must complete the ACH Refund application and notify CBP to request reissuance.
Estimated Net Cost Savings to Government and Trade
CBP estimates combined annualized net cost savings to the Federal government and trade members of about $1.3 million (2025 dollars, 3% discount) or $1.0 million (2025 dollars, 7% discount) over 2025–2034, with a present value of $28.7 million and an annualized net savings of $2.0 million using a 7% discount under CBP's perpetual horizon calculation.
Rare Waiver Allows Paper Checks
Paper U.S. Treasury refund checks may still be issued in rare circumstances if a recipient meets waiver criteria in 31 CFR 208.4. If an importer believes a waiver applies and wants a paper check, they must notify CBP's Revenue Division in writing at the address or email CBP provides.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
Related Federal Register Documents
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The U.S. Customs and Border Protection is proposing new rules to make importing low-value goods (under $2,500) easier and more electronic, especially for mail shipments. They want to add new data requirements for carriers and require bonds for some shipments to keep things safe and smooth. If you’re involved in shipping or receiving small packages, get ready to adapt by December 7, 2026, when comments on these changes close.
2026-17390, Automated Commercial Environment (ACE) Electronic Export Manifest for Rail Cargo
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2026-12670, Indefinite Suspension of the De Minimis Exemption for Merchandise Arriving Through All Modes Other Than the International Postal Network
Starting June 24, 2026, small shipments worth $800 or less arriving by anything but the international postal network will no longer skip customs checks. This means everyone importing these goods must follow formal or informal entry rules, which could mean more paperwork and possible fees. If you’re a shopper, seller, or shipper using other delivery methods, get ready for this change and share your thoughts by July 24, 2026!
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2026-20228, Agency Information Collection Activities; Court-Ordered Refunds Under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act Worksheet
U.S. Customs and Border Protection is asking for public feedback on a form they use to handle court-ordered refunds under a special emergency law. This update keeps the paperwork clear and efficient for businesses and agencies involved. Comments are open until November 4, 2026, so don’t miss your chance to weigh in!
2026-20229, Agency Information Collection Activities; New Collection of Information; Client Representative Technical Assistance Portal (CR-TAP)
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