Executive Summary
- Certain tariffs imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) were invalidated following a Supreme Court ruling, prompting U.S. Customs and Border Protection to launch a refund process for eligible businesses that previously paid those tariffs.
- Businesses that imported goods and paid tariffs between February 2025 and February 2026 may qualify for refunds, though eligibility depends on factors such as how import entries were filed and the availability of detailed import documentation.
- Companies should evaluate whether they were directly or indirectly impacted by these tariffs, including through suppliers or third-party logistics providers, as the refund process may present a time-sensitive opportunity to recover costs.
As you may be aware, recent developments regarding federal tariffs have created both uncertainty and opportunity for many businesses. We want to acknowledge the potential impact this may have had on you and share a brief update on what we’re seeing.
Tariff Refunds: What’s Changed
Earlier this year, tariffs imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) were invalidated following a Supreme Court ruling that clarified tariffs must be authorized by Congress. As a result, certain tariffs assessed under IEEPA are no longer valid, while other tariffs remain in effect.
In response, U.S. Customs and Border Protection has initiated Phase 1 of a tariff refund process, launching a refund portal and accepting claims. This opens the door for some businesses to recover previously paid duties. The website for these refunds can be found here.
Who May Be Impacted
While tariffs can feel far removed from day-to-day operations, many businesses were affected, directly or indirectly, by these changes. Based on what we’re seeing:
- Businesses that imported goods and paid tariffs between February 2025 and February 2026 may be eligible for refunds related to IEEPA tariffs
- Eligibility and timing can depend on how import entries were filed
- The process can be time-sensitive and often requires detailed import data
A simple starting question is: Did your business import goods and pay tariffs in 2025 or 2026? If so, it may be worth a closer look. Even if you didn’t pay these tariffs directly, you may have been charged for ones incurred by a supplier or third-party logistics provider.
While we don’t expect every client to be affected, this is an opportunity to ensure you’re aware of the refund process. If you have any questions or want guidance on these matters, contact us.
Rollin Groseclose, CPA, CGMA
Rollin Groseclose, CPA, CGMA is a DMJPS PLLC Partner and the Director of Tax Services. Rollin is responsible for coordinating the firm’s tax services for clients, both businesses and individuals, and he helps the firm stay up to date on the latest tax developments. He has significant expertise in the areas of tax and business advisory services and focuses his energies on manufacturing and distribution, construction and real estate development, and hospitality. His expertise is also extensive with clients that have multi-state and international activities.