Potential tariff refund opportunity: What importers should know

By Tyler Petzel, CPA

Recent court decisions have opened the door for U.S. importers to potentially recover tariffs that were ruled unauthorized. Specifically, the Supreme Court struck down certain tariffs imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA), which means businesses that paid these duties may now be eligible for refunds. While this is a significant opportunity, the government has not yet established a clear or streamlined refund process. The Court of International Trade will likely oversee how refunds are handled, and experts expect the resolution to take time, especially as thousands of businesses have already begun filing claims or lawsuits to preserve their rights.

If your company imports parts, materials, or finished goods, especially those previously hit with IEEPA-based tariffs, it’s worth taking a closer look. Refund eligibility may depend on the type of tariff paid, timing, and how your entries were processed. The potential dollar amounts are meaningful, but navigating the rules and documentation can be complex.

As advisors in the manufacturing and distribution space, we can help you evaluate whether your company might qualify for a refund and what steps you should consider next. If you think you may have been affected, reach out to our team today so we can help you review your import history and position you for any available recovery.