U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is modernizing its refund process by transitioning to electronic refunds via Automated Clearing House (ACH). Effective February 6, 2026, CBP will no longer issue refunds by check, marking a significant step toward efficiency and security in customs transactions.
What this means for U.S. importers
The shift to electronic refunds aligns with Executive Order 14247, which mandates federal agencies to adopt electronic payment methods to enhance security, reduce costs, and prevent fraud. Refund recipients, including importers, brokers, sureties, and designated third parties, must now enroll in ACH refunds through the Automated Commercial Environment (ACE) Secure Data Portal.
Steps to ensure uninterrupted refunds
To prepare for this transition, refund recipients must:
- Ensure ACE Portal access:
o Maintain an active ACE Portal account.
o Verify that account information is current and accurate. - Enroll in ACH refunds:
o Complete and submit the ACH Refund Authorization in the ACE Portal.
o Provide valid U.S. bank account details. - Confirm authorization and access:
o Ensure the Trade Account Owner is authorized to manage ACH enrollment.
o Verify the eligibility and enrollment status of any designated third party.
Why this change matters
The move to electronic refunds offers several benefits:
- Faster processing: Refunds will be deposited within 1-2 business days, compared to the delays associated with mailing checks.
- Enhanced security: Electronic payments significantly reduce the risk of fraud and theft, which have been rising with paper checks.
- Cost savings: Eliminating paper checks reduces administrative costs for both CBP and refund recipients.
Consequences of non-enrollment
Failure to enroll in ACH refunds may result in:
- Delayed or rejected refunds.
- Loss of interest on delayed refunds due to incomplete or inaccurate enrollment.
Livingston clients: What you need to know
If CBP currently sends refund checks to Livingston on your behalf, no action is required. Livingston has already taken steps to receive refunds via ACH. However, if CBP sends refund checks directly to your company, you must act to ensure uninterrupted refunds.
Act now to avoid disruptions
CBP strongly recommends completing ACH refund enrollment before the February 6, 2026, deadline. For more information, visit CBP’s ACH Refund Enrollment page or consult the Federal Register notice.