How the CAPE Refund Process Works — And Where We Help
Step 1: CSV Submission via ACE Claim Portal
CBP will add a CAPE tab inside ACE Portal accounts. Importers and brokers upload a CSV file listing all entry summaries with IEEPA duties. Two rounds of automated validation run — errors mean rejection. Our role: We compile, clean, and format your entry data into a compliant CSV so your submission passes validation the first time.
Step 2: Automated Duty Recalculation (Mass Processing)
CAPE's engine removes all IEEPA HTS Chapter 99 numbers from each entry and recalculates duties as if IEEPA charges were never assessed. Entries that fail ACE recalculation rules are dropped from the refund queue. Our role: We model the recalculation before you submit so you know your projected refund and can fix problem entries in advance.
Step 3: Liquidation / Reliquidation — CBP Locks In Your Refund
After entries are accepted, CBP automatically schedules liquidation or reliquidation. This formally locks in your refund amount plus any applicable interest. Processing occurs Monday through Thursday only. Our role: We track accepted entries, monitor your liquidation schedule, and identify discrepancies in CBP's calculations.
Step 4: Electronic Refund Disbursement — Funds Sent to Your Bank
No paper checks are issued under CAPE. Refunds are sent electronically via ACH to the bank account in your ACE profile — or to a third party named on CBP Form 4811. If banking info is missing or outdated, your refund is delayed. Our role: We review your ACE banking designations and Form 4811 setup to confirm your refund reaches the right account on time.
Don't Wait.
The CAPE Portal Is Coming. Prepare Now — Be First In Line.
Importers and brokers who prepare now will be first in line when the CAPE portal launches. We audit your IEEPA duty payments, calculate your refund, and build your submission file before day one. Don't let a slow start cost you months of delayed refunds.