More than a hundred billion dollars in refunds has drawn scammers. CBP has publicly warned importers about offers to file refunds on their behalf and about requests for personal and banking information.
Red flags
- Anyone asking for your ACE login, password, or security codes
- Anyone asking you to change the bank account CBP pays refunds to, or to route a refund through them
- Emails or calls claiming to be from CBP that ask for Social Security numbers, bank details, or passwords
- Upfront fees to "release" or "expedite" a refund
- Guarantees of a specific refund amount before anyone has seen your entries
Facts that protect you
- Refunds are paid by the government to the Importer of Record, by ACH.
- Importers can file CAPE claims and protests directly with CBP at no cost.
- Only licensed customs brokers can prepare and file customs documents for others. Only attorneys can represent you in court.
How to check who you are dealing with
- Ask exactly what they will do and whether they are a licensed customs broker, a law firm, or neither.
- Get any fee in writing before you share records.
- Never share credentials. Pull reports yourself and share only what is needed.
Sources
General information, not legal advice. Tariff refund rules and court rulings are changing. Deadlines depend on your own entries. Confirm your options with a licensed customs broker or attorney. TariffClarity is not a law firm or customs broker.