Filing for IEEPA refunds through CAPE involves more than just submitting entry numbers—it requires accurate data, proper formatting, and a clear understanding of CBP requirements and timelines. Working with a broker who already has access to your entry history and operates directly within ACE can simplify the process and reduce the risk of delays or errors. Below are some of the key reasons importers choose Clearit to manage their refund filings.
Why use Clearit to handle my refunds?
- We already have the entry data
For entries filed by Clearit, we already have the entry numbers, entry dates, Chapter 99 tariff lines, liquidation status, duty amounts, and supporting entry records.
This allows us to review your entry history more efficiently, identify which entries may be eligible, and reduce the risk of missing refund opportunities.
- We know which entries qualify right now
Phase 1 is not a blanket refund process for all entries.
It generally applies to unliquidated entries and certain entries liquidated within the allowed window. Entries involving protests, reconciliation, drawback, AD/CVD issues, or other complexities may be excluded from Phase 1.
Clearit can help determine which entries appear to qualify under the current process.
- Lower risk of technical rejection
The CAPE declaration has specific formatting requirements.
For example:
- The file must be submitted as a CSV
- The header must be exact
- Entry numbers must be formatted properly
- Duplicate entries must be avoided
- Each declaration may include up to 9,999 entries
Small formatting errors can cause automated rejections. Clearit can help reduce that risk by preparing and submitting the file correctly.
- Clearit can reconcile refund eligibility against the actual entry history
Clearit can review each applicable entry to confirm whether:
- IEEPA duty was actually paid
- The entry has liquidated
- Other tariff programs were involved
- CBP may net the refund against other underpayments or debts
This helps ensure the refund request is based on the actual entry record.
- Faster correction if CBP rejects entries
ACE provides validation history and error reports when entries are rejected or require correction.
Because Clearit works in ACE daily, we can review the rejection reasons, correct missing or incorrect entry data, and resubmit omitted or rejected entries more efficiently.
- Better deadline management
For entries that do not qualify for Phase 1, protest deadlines may still matter.
Importers should monitor protest deadlines, which are typically 180 days from liquidation, in order to preserve refund rights.
- Cleaner audit trail
Because Clearit filed the original entry, we can tie the refund request back to the original entry package.
This may include invoices, HTS codes, Chapter 99 applications, duty calculations, liquidation history, and other supporting entry documents.
