economy
Trump administration set to launch tariff refund portal. Here's what to know.
Updated on: April 16, 2026 / 10:49 AM EDT / CBS News
TL;DR
- A new online portal, CAPE, will allow businesses to apply for refunds of tariffs declared illegal by the Supreme Court.
- The portal opens on April 20, and eligible businesses, including importers of record and customs brokers, can submit claims.
- Refunds are not automatic; businesses must opt-in, and claims will be processed by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP).
- Initially, only "unliquidated tariffs" and those finalized by CBP within the past 80 days are eligible for refunds.
- CBP estimates refunds will be issued within 60 to 90 days of claim approval, but errors could cause delays.
- Some financial firms are offering to buy tariff refund claims from businesses seeking immediate cash.
- Legal experts and trade attorneys express concerns about the administrative burden on importers and potential system glitches.