Anyone can call themselves a refund specialist. Only a licensed customs broker or an attorney can prepare customs filings for another company, and only an attorney can give legal advice or file suit. Check before you share entry data or sign anything.
Customs brokers
- Customs brokers are licensed by U.S. Customs and Border Protection under 19 U.S.C. 1641. Ask for the broker's license number and the name of its licensed officer.
- CBP's help center explains how to check whether a customs broker is still licensed, and CBP publishes a permitted customs brokers listing.
- The National Customs Brokers and Forwarders Association of America (NCBFAA) has a member directory. Membership is voluntary and is not proof of a license.
Attorneys
- Lawyers are licensed by each state. The American Bar Association links to every state's licensing agency.
- Examples: State Bar of California attorney search, New York attorney directory, Florida Bar member directory.
- Check that the attorney is active and in good standing, and whether there is any public discipline. Court of International Trade cases require an attorney admitted to that court.
What a broker must give you
- A broker must have a valid power of attorney from you before doing customs business for you (19 CFR 141.46).
- A broker must give you a written statement of account and must tell you that paying the broker does not end your own liability to CBP (19 CFR 111.29).
- A broker may not share its fees with unlicensed persons (19 CFR 111.36).
Red flags
- No license or bar number, or reluctance to give one
- A request for your ACE login or bank details
- An offer to have your refund paid to them
- Pressure to sign today, or a fee that is not in writing
What this means for importers
Verify first, then compare fees in writing. See what refund help usually costs and how to avoid refund scams.
General information, not legal or customs advice. Facts last reviewed September 24, 2026. Confirm dates and options for your entries with a licensed professional.
Sources
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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.