CBP Modernizes Electronic Refund Enrollment Process
01/06/2026 – The trade community can expect faster refunds, thanks to two recent upgrades to U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s Automated Commercial Environment Secure Data Portal that will prepare users for the transition to an electronic refund process on Feb. 6, 2026.
The improvements enable automated processing, making it easier, faster, and more secure for businesses to engage in lawful trade with CBP while managing their customs transactions online, enhancing efficiency and safeguarding both economic and national security. The U.S. Department of the Treasury will cease issuing paper checks for all CBP refunds on Feb. 6, unless the recipient has an approved waiver in place in accordance with 31 C.F.R. § 208.4, transitioning away from traditional paper-based refunds that impose unnecessary costs and delays. Adopting an electronic refund process will also provide increased security against financial fraud and improper payments.
