Question 1

Does this website help recover every type of tariff?

Accepted Answer

No. Tariff Refund Processing Center focuses specifically on eligible IEEPA tariffs and duties. Not all customs entries or standard duties qualify for recovery under IEEPA provisions.

Question 2

What are eligible IEEPA duties?

Accepted Answer

Eligible duties refer to specific tariffs assessed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). Qualifications depend on entry liquidation dates, tariff classifications, and filing timeframes.

Question 3

Do All Tariffs Qualify for Recovery?

Accepted Answer

No. Not every tariff or import duty is eligible for recovery. Eligibility depends on the specific tariff provisions applied to your customs entries. Tariff Refund Agency reviews each situation individually to determine whether qualifying IEEPA duties may be eligible.

Question 4

Is There Any Upfront Cost?

Accepted Answer

No. Qualified recovery claims are generally handled on a contingency-fee basis. That means there are no upfront recovery fees, and Tariff Refund Agency is only compensated if a successful recovery is made, subject to the terms of the applicable agreement.

Question 5

Is there an upfront recovery cost?

Accepted Answer

Tariff Refund Agency operates on a performance basis with no upfront recovery fee for standard recovery evaluations. Details are provided during the formal review process.

Question 6

Who May Qualify for an IEEPA Tariff Refund?

Accepted Answer

U.S. Importers of Record (IORs) who paid certain IEEPA-related tariffs on qualifying imports during the applicable recovery periods may be eligible for a refund. Eligibility depends on the specific duties applied to each customs entry. Tariff Refund Agency can review your information and help determine whether your entries may qualify.

Question 7

What Are My Options for Recovering My Refund?

Accepted Answer

Tariff Refund Agency generally offers two recovery paths. The first is the standard recovery process, where qualified claims are prepared and submitted for review through the appropriate channels. The second is an advance funding option for qualified importers who prefer not to wait for the government refund process to be completed. During your Recovery Strategy Session, the team will explain both options and help you determine which approach best fits your business.

Question 8

How Long Does the Recovery Process Take?

Accepted Answer

Government processing timelines vary and may take several months or longer depending on the claim. For qualified businesses, advance funding may provide access to capital much sooner than waiting for the government refund process to be completed. Your Recovery Strategy Session will include current processing expectations based on your situation.

Question 9

What Do I Need to Get Started?

Accepted Answer

Getting started is simple. You'll provide basic company information, your Importer of Record (IOR) information, and an estimate of the eligible duties you've paid. If available, CBP Form 7501 documents or ACE reports can help speed up the review process. The initial application typically takes only a few minutes to complete.

Question 10

What If I'm Not Sure Which Tariffs I Paid?

Accepted Answer

That's one of the most common questions we receive. Simply submit your information through the application, and Tariff Refund Agency will review your import history to determine whether eligible IEEPA duties may have been paid. There is no cost or obligation for the initial assessment.

Question 11

What Happens After I Submit My Application?

Accepted Answer

Once your application is submitted, Tariff Refund Agency reviews the information and begins evaluating your potential recovery opportunities. Qualified importers are then invited to a complimentary Recovery Strategy Session to review their situation, discuss available recovery options, answer questions, and explain the next steps.

Question 12

Can I Apply If I Already Filed a Claim?

Accepted Answer

Yes. If you've already filed a claim, Tariff Refund Agency may be able to review your previous filing to determine whether additional recovery opportunities exist or whether separate filing phases still need to be completed. Visit the "Already Filed?" section to learn more.

Question 13

Who should submit the application?

Accepted Answer

The Importer of Record or an authorized representative who paid eligible IEEPA duties should start the application to initiate evaluation by Tariff Refund Agency.

Question 14

Who should start the application?

Accepted Answer

The Importer of Record — the party legally responsible for the customs entry and the duties paid — should start the application. If you are unsure whether you are the Importer of Record, a guidance consultation can help clarify.

Question 15

What happens after I apply?

Accepted Answer

After qualified applicants submit their application and it is reviewed, they are invited to a complimentary Recovery Strategy Session. This session covers import history, filing priorities, recovery opportunities, documentation, and next steps.

Question 16

Do I Need to Switch Customs Brokers?

Accepted Answer

No. Tariff Refund Agency works alongside your existing customs broker. There is no need to change brokers, and your day-to-day import operations continue without disruption. The recovery process is designed to complement your existing customs and compliance relationships.

Question 17

What Information Do I Need to Get Started?

Accepted Answer

Getting started is simple. You'll provide basic company information and your Importer of Record (IOR) number through the application. If your claim moves forward, Tariff Refund Agency will request your ACE entry data and any supporting documentation needed to evaluate your recovery opportunities. In most cases, your customs broker can provide this information quickly.

Question 18

Is My Company's Information Secure?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Tariff Refund Agency uses industry-standard security measures to protect your information. Entry data and sensitive information are encrypted during transmission and storage, access is restricted to authorized personnel, and systems are designed to safeguard your business information throughout the recovery process.

Question 19

What Is an Importer of Record (IOR)?

Accepted Answer

The Importer of Record (IOR) is the individual or business legally responsible for importing goods into the United States, paying applicable duties, and ensuring compliance with U.S. Customs requirements. In most cases, only the Importer of Record has the legal authority to pursue an eligible IEEPA tariff refund claim.

Question 20

What If a Consolidator Was My Importer of Record?

Accepted Answer

If a consolidator acted as your Importer of Record, they may hold the legal authority to pursue the recovery claim. If you're unsure of your Importer of Record status, Tariff Refund Processing Center recommends scheduling a Guidance Consultation before beginning the application so the appropriate recovery path can be determined.

Question 21

Can I Still Apply If I Don't Have My ACE Data Yet?

Accepted Answer

Yes. You can begin the application even if you don't have your ACE data available today. If your claim moves forward, Tariff Refund Agency will explain what documentation is needed and can coordinate with your customs broker to obtain the necessary information.

Question 22

Why Should I Start My Application Now?

Accepted Answer

IEEPA tariff refund claims are subject to important filing deadlines. Because customs entries liquidate at different times, waiting too long may result in some refund opportunities expiring. Starting your application early gives Tariff Refund Agency the best opportunity to review your entries and help protect every eligible refund opportunity.

Question 23

Who is the Importer of Record?

Accepted Answer

The Importer of Record is the party legally responsible for the customs entry and the duties paid. Identifying the correct party determines your next step in the recovery process.

Question 24

What if a consolidator acted as the Importer of Record?

Accepted Answer

If a consolidator or third party was listed as the Importer of Record, specialized documentation review is required to determine eligible rights and the path forward. A guidance consultation can help clarify your situation.

Question 25

What if I am not sure who the Importer of Record is?

Accepted Answer

If you are unsure who the Importer of Record is, a guidance consultation can help you identify the correct party before you proceed with an application.

Question 26

Who Is the Importer of Record?

Accepted Answer

The Importer of Record (IOR) is the individual or business legally responsible for the customs entry, payment of duties, and compliance with U.S. Customs requirements. In many cases, only the Importer of Record has the authority to pursue an eligible tariff refund claim.

Question 27

What If a Consolidator Acted as My Importer of Record?

Accepted Answer

If a consolidator served as the Importer of Record, they may hold the legal authority to pursue the recovery claim. Tariff Refund Agency has experience working with importers and consolidators to determine the best path forward. If you're unsure of your Importer of Record status, schedule a Guidance Consultation before beginning the application process.

Question 28

What if I already filed a claim?

Accepted Answer

Receiving a Phase 1 refund does not automatically complete Phase 2 or Phase 3 filings. Each phase requires its own separate filing. A claim review can determine whether eligible amounts or additional filing phases were missed.

Question 29

Does receiving a refund mean my recovery is complete?

Accepted Answer

No. Receiving a Phase 1 refund does not automatically complete Phase 2 or Phase 3 filings. Each phase requires its own separate filing. Our claim review can determine whether eligible amounts or additional filing phases were missed.

Question 30

What is advance funding?

Accepted Answer

Importers who already filed and are waiting for government payment may qualify for advance funding through the applicable Tariff Refund Agency resources.

Question 31

Is There a Cost for the Claim Review?

Accepted Answer

No. There is no upfront cost for the initial claim review. Tariff Refund Agency will review your existing filing to determine whether additional recovery opportunities may exist. If additional recovery work is recommended, any applicable contingency fees will be clearly explained and agreed to before any additional filings are prepared.

Question 32

What If My Customs Broker or Attorney Already Filed My Claim?

Accepted Answer

That's not a problem. Tariff Refund Agency follows a non-displacing approach. The goal is not to replace your existing customs broker, attorney, or trusted advisor. Instead, Tariff Refund Agency reviews the existing filing, shares any relevant findings, and coordinates with your current professionals whenever appropriate while remaining focused on maximizing your potential recovery.

Question 33

Can My Existing Claim Be Reviewed for Missed Recovery Opportunities?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Tariff Refund Agency can review previously filed claims to determine whether additional eligible recovery opportunities may have been overlooked or whether additional filing phases still need to be completed. A claim review provides greater confidence that every available recovery opportunity has been properly evaluated.

Question 34

What If I Already Received a Refund?

Accepted Answer

Receiving a refund does not necessarily mean your recovery is complete. Some importers receive a Phase 1 refund but may still have additional recovery opportunities available through later filing phases. Tariff Refund Agency can review your claim to determine whether additional recovery opportunities may still exist.

Question 35

Do I Need to Start the Entire Process Again?

Accepted Answer

Not necessarily. If you've already filed a claim, Tariff Refund Agency begins by reviewing your existing filing rather than starting from scratch. The review helps determine what has already been completed, whether additional recovery opportunities remain, and what the most appropriate next step should be.

Question 36

Will Tariff Refund Agency Replace My Current Broker or Attorney?

Accepted Answer

No. Tariff Refund Agency specializes exclusively in IEEPA tariff refunds and works alongside your existing customs broker, attorney, or other trusted advisors whenever appropriate. The objective is to complement their work, not replace the professional relationships you've already established.

Question 37

Can Tariff Refund Agency Review All Three Recovery Phases?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Tariff Refund Agency can review your previous filings to determine whether all applicable recovery phases have been properly addressed. If additional filings are needed, the team will explain your available options before moving forward.

Question 38

What If I Haven't Filed for Phase 2 or Phase 3 Yet?

Accepted Answer

Each recovery phase generally requires its own filing. Completing one phase does not automatically complete the others. During the claim review, Tariff Refund Agency can determine whether additional filing opportunities may still be available based on your specific situation.

Question 39

Can I Still Qualify for Advance Funding?

Accepted Answer

Possibly. Importers with qualifying claims that have already been filed may be eligible for advance funding while waiting for the government refund process. Eligibility depends on several factors, including underwriting and program requirements. During your claim review, Tariff Refund Agency can determine whether this option may be available for your business.

Question 40

What Happens After My Claim Review?

Accepted Answer

After reviewing your existing claim, Tariff Refund Agency will explain the findings, discuss any additional recovery opportunities that may exist, answer your questions, and recommend the most appropriate next steps based on your situation.

Question 41

Why Should I Have My Claim Reviewed If My Refund Was Already Approved?

Accepted Answer

Approval of a previous refund does not necessarily confirm that every eligible recovery opportunity was captured. Some importers receive funds from an earlier filing phase while additional opportunities may still exist through later phases or previously overlooked entries. A complimentary claim review from Tariff Refund Agency helps determine whether your recovery is complete and whether any additional opportunities should be considered.

Question 42

Can customs brokers participate?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Customs brokers can activate a complimentary Broker Portal to help identify potential IEEPA recovery opportunities across their client base.

Question 43

How does the Broker Portal work?

Accepted Answer

The Broker Portal is a complimentary platform that helps customs brokers identify potential IEEPA recovery opportunities, track filing deadlines, and generate white label reports. Recovery specialists at Tariff Refund Agency handle the filing and management process.

Question 44

Do brokers manage the recovery process?

Accepted Answer

No. Recovery specialists at Tariff Refund Agency handle the filing and recovery process. The Broker Portal helps brokers identify opportunities, but the filing and management are handled by the TRA team.

Question 45

Will Tariff Refund Agency Take Over My Entry Filing Work?

Accepted Answer

No. Tariff Refund Agency focuses exclusively on IEEPA tariff refunds. Your brokerage continues managing your clients' entry filings, freight coordination, customs compliance, and day-to-day brokerage services. The refund process is handled separately, allowing you to expand your client services without disrupting your existing business.

Question 46

Can I Private-Label the Broker Portal?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Tariff Refund Agency offers private-label options that allow the Broker Portal to reflect your firm's branding. Your logo, colors, and even your domain can be configured so your clients experience a professional, branded recovery platform under your business.

Question 47

What Does the Workflow Look Like for My Team?

Accepted Answer

The process is designed to be simple and efficient. You introduce the client and provide the relevant ACE data. Tariff Refund Agency manages the intake process, documentation, preliminary review, and coordination with the appropriate customs, compliance, and filing professionals. Your team remains focused on serving your clients while recovery specialists handle the technical work.

Question 48

Do I Need to Manage the Recovery Process?

Accepted Answer

No. Tariff Refund Agency manages the qualification, review, filing, recovery process, and ongoing client communication related to the recovery. Your role is to identify opportunities, introduce qualified clients, and continue serving as their trusted customs advisor.

Question 49

How Does the Complimentary Broker Portal Help My Brokerage?

Accepted Answer

The Complimentary Broker Portal helps you identify potential IEEPA recovery opportunities across your client portfolio, monitor important filing deadlines, request complimentary second looks on previously filed claims, and access professional reports that help you deliver additional value to your clients.

Question 50

What Is the Free Second Look?

Accepted Answer

The Free Second Look is a complimentary review of previously filed claims to determine whether eligible recovery opportunities may have been missed. It gives your clients an additional level of confidence while helping identify potential opportunities that deserve further review.

Question 51

How Do I Earn Compensation?

Accepted Answer

Customs brokers receive referral compensation on qualified recoveries in accordance with the Broker Partnership Agreement. Tariff Refund Agency provides transparent reporting so you can monitor your referrals and compensation throughout the recovery process.

Question 52

Will Tariff Refund Agency Contact My Clients Without Me?

Accepted Answer

No. Your client relationships remain yours. Tariff Refund Agency works with you throughout the engagement process and does not communicate with your referred clients without your knowledge. The partnership is designed to strengthen your client relationships while providing specialized recovery services.

Question 53

Do You Carry Errors & Omissions (E&O) Coverage?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Tariff Refund Agency maintains Errors & Omissions (E&O) and cyber liability insurance appropriate for the recovery services it provides, giving brokers additional confidence when referring qualified clients.

Question 54

Why Should My Brokerage Partner with Tariff Refund Agency?

Accepted Answer

Partnering with Tariff Refund Agency allows your brokerage to offer an additional value-added service without increasing your operational workload. Recovery specialists manage the technical aspects of the recovery process while you strengthen client relationships, enhance your service offering, and create a new referral revenue opportunity.

Question 55

How do referral partners participate?

Accepted Answer

Referral partners — including CPAs, attorneys, financial advisors, consultants, and customs professionals — connect qualified businesses with Tariff Refund Agency. TRA handles the qualification, filing, and recovery process. Partners do not process claims.

Question 56

Who can become a referral partner?

Accepted Answer

CPAs, attorneys, financial advisors, fractional CFOs, commercial bankers, lenders, business consultants, international trade consultants, freight forwarders, supply chain consultants, import-export consultants, business coaches, and customs professionals are all welcome to explore the partnership.

Question 57

Do partners manage the recovery process?

Accepted Answer

No. Tariff Refund Agency handles the claim review, filing, and recovery process. Referral partners identify qualified businesses and connect them with the appropriate resources.

Question 58

Who Is This Partnership Program Best Suited For?

Accepted Answer

The partnership program is designed for professionals who work with businesses that import products into the United States. This includes customs brokers, CPAs, attorneys, financial advisors, fractional CFOs, commercial bankers, lenders, business consultants, supply chain advisors, freight forwarders, import/export consultants, logistics professionals, trade associations, and other trusted advisors. If your clients import goods into the U.S., this program may provide an opportunity to add value while creating a new referral revenue stream.

Question 59

What's Expected of Me as a Referral Partner?

Accepted Answer

Simply introduce qualified businesses that may benefit from IEEPA tariff refunds. That's all that's required to get started. As you become more comfortable with the program, you can also share educational resources, landing pages, and marketing materials provided through Tariff Refund Agency. You are never responsible for qualifying claims, managing filings, or recovering funds.

Question 60

Will Tariff Refund Agency Contact My Clients Without Me?

Accepted Answer

No. Your client relationships remain yours. Tariff Refund Agency works with you throughout the introduction process and does not engage with your referred clients without your knowledge. Every stage of the referral and recovery process is designed to protect your client relationships while keeping you informed.

Question 61

How Do I Get Paid?

Accepted Answer

Referral compensation is paid on qualified recoveries in accordance with the partnership agreement. Once you become a referral partner, you'll have access to your partner dashboard where referrals and commissions are tracked transparently.

Question 62

Can I Introduce Clients to Advance Funding?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Some importers prefer not to wait for the government refund process to be completed. When appropriate, Tariff Refund Agency may be able to connect qualified importers with advance funding solutions, subject to underwriting, eligibility, and approval.

Question 63

Do I Need Customs or Trade Compliance Experience?

Accepted Answer

No. You don't need to be a customs broker or trade compliance expert to participate. Your role is to identify potential opportunities and introduce qualified businesses. Tariff Refund Agency handles the qualification, filing, recovery process, and ongoing client support.

Question 64

Do I Manage the Recovery Process?

Accepted Answer

No. Tariff Refund Agency manages the qualification, review, filing, recovery process, and ongoing communication with your referred client. Your role is simply to identify opportunities and make introductions while continuing to serve as your client's trusted advisor.

Frequently Asked Questions

General

Importers

Importer of Record

Already Filed

Customs Brokers

Partners

Advance Funding

Guidance