For companies importing goods from China, Mexico, and other impacted countries, uncertainty over tariff refunds creates both risk and opportunity. Businesses may face delays of months or years before government reimbursement, but understanding the rules and preparing in advance can turn potential refunds into a strategic financial advantage.

In this blog, we’ll explore the types of tariffs at stake, historical precedents for refunds, and actionable steps to access funds quickly with the support of Raistone.

Understanding the tariffs at stake

The U.S. tariff landscape has never been more complex. Section 301 tariffs — imposed during the first Trump administration as targeted penalties on Chinese imports — remain in place today and were expanded under President Biden after a four-year review in 2024. These duties were designed to address unfair trade practices and primarily targeted specific goods such as electronics and machinery.

By contrast, tariffs introduced during Trump’s second term operate on a far broader scale. A universal 10% reciprocal tariff was placed on virtually all imports, with higher rates applied to countries running large trade deficits. These newer tariffs cover thousands of products, including steel, automotive components, semiconductors, and consumer goods. Exemptions are limited, with the notable elimination of the long-standing de-minimis duty-free threshold for low-value shipments.

Businesses that paid these tariffs now face uncertainty. The Supreme Court is reviewing their legality, and if the Court rules them invalid, companies could be entitled to substantial refunds, potentially totaling billions of dollars. For many, these funds represent critical working capital that could be strategically leveraged if they could be freed up immediately.

Precedent for tariff refunds

In July 2018, the United States Trade Representative (USTR) implemented a 25% tariff on Chinese imports containing what it deemed “industrially significant technology.” In the months that followed, USTR imposed duties on two further itemized lists, at a rate of 25% and 10%, respectively.

At about the same time, USTR began developing exclusions to the tariffs, which were released on Sept. 20 and Oct. 2, 2019. Some businesses who paid duties on products later added to these exclusion lists were eligible to receive refunds, sometimes years after payment. This precedent highlights the importance of tracking tariff developments closely and how companies that act quickly could recover millions.

Potential effects on businesses
If the Supreme Court rules the second-term tariffs invalid, companies that have already paid could face delays of months or even years before refunds are processed. Businesses with substantial imports could be owed millions in refunds, representing a significant source of working capital.

For example, if an importer who paid $500,000 in second-term tariffs is deemed eligible for a refund, those funds could be immediately reinvested into operations, new product development, or supplier payments — rather than waiting for government reimbursement for up to two years.

Companies with less exposure could also stand to benefit, particularly if they are managing tight cash flow or expanding rapidly. Planning ahead by evaluating which tariffs were paid along with potential refund amounts positions businesses to act quickly once the Supreme Court rules.

How Raistone can help

Step 1: Phone Consultation

We’ll review your import history together, including how your team is currently maintaining records such as CBP Form 7501, CBP Form 3461, Bills of Lading, and Commercial Invoices. We can also discuss whether you have access to the Automated Commercial Environment (ACE) and how, if at all, you’re flagging entries for potential overpayment. This initial review helps create a clearer picture of potential refund opportunities and the scale of what may be recoverable.

Step 2: Coordination with Your Broker

When the Supreme Court issues its ruling on tariff refunds, and if a process is established, Raistone can work with you and your licensed customs broker to help organize the necessary paperwork and documentation.

Step 3: Advance Payment Options

If refunds are authorized and you are working with a licensed customs broker, Raistone can provide advance payment against those potential recoveries. That way, your business can access working capital sooner rather than waiting for government timelines to play out.

Turning delayed refunds into tangible working capital

Raistone can help you act strategically. By converting expected tariff refunds into immediate funds, you can bridge working capital gaps, reinvest in operations, and seize new opportunities. With Raistone, potential tariff recoveries become tangible resources rather than administrative headaches.

Please note that we do not provide customs brokerage services or legal advice, but we focus on helping companies unlock liquidity tied to tariff disputes. By converting expected refunds into immediate funds once the ruling and refund process are clear, your business can bridge cash flow gaps, reinvest in operations, and move quickly on growth opportunities.

Now is the time to evaluate your tariff exposure, document paid duties, and consider how early access to these funds could support your business. Companies that act proactively will be better positioned to leverage refunds and strengthen financial resilience.

Connect with Raistone today to explore how we can help you navigate the complexities of tariff refunds and unlock the capital you may be owed. Fill out this form or call 888-626-6593 to speak with an expert.

About the Author

Pete Kienlen, Sales Director at Raistone, leads efforts to develop tailored working capital solutions for clients. With over 20 years of experience in sales, finance, and global logistics — including more than a decade at American Express and Expeditors International — Pete specializes in helping businesses optimize cash flow, across multiple industries including energy, manufacturing, construction, retail, and logistics. Pete values Raistone’s agile environment, which enables quick, customized solutions, and is passionate about supporting small- and medium-sized businesses.

Related Topics

Insights, Accounts Receivable Finance, Supply Chain Finance, Blogs