U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has announced updates to its Automated Commercial Environment (ACE) Secure Data Portal, aiming to transition the trade community from paper-based refunds to a fully electronic refund process starting February 6, 2026.
The agency states that these improvements will automate processing, providing a more secure and efficient way for businesses to manage customs transactions online. The changes are intended to streamline lawful trade with CBP while protecting economic and national security.
“These enhancements are significant for the trade community and CBP,” said Acting Executive Assistant Commissioner for CBP’s Office of Trade Susan S. Thomas. “Enhancing ACE enables secure electronic refunds, faster payments, fewer errors and a simplified process for importers, brokers and refund recipients.”
After February 6, the U.S. Department of the Treasury will stop issuing paper checks for all CBP refunds unless recipients have an approved waiver under 31 C.F.R. § 208.4. The move away from traditional paper checks is expected to reduce costs, prevent delays, and increase protection against financial fraud or improper payments.
The changes are part of Interim Final Rule: Electronic Refunds and align with Executive Order 14247: Modernizing Payments To and From America's Bank Account, which requires federal agencies to use electronic methods for disbursements and receipts when possible.
Two specific upgrades have been made in the ACE Portal: one introduces a secure online tool for authorizing electronic refunds; the other simplifies the application process for creating importer accounts. These steps aim to prepare users for the new system ahead of next year’s deadline.
CBP describes itself as America’s largest law enforcement organization with over 67,000 employees working across land, air, and sea borders. The agency says it enforces safe travel and trade while supporting national security through technology and collaboration.
For more information about recent updates in CBP’s ACE Portal or details on the ACH Refund process, additional resources are available on official channels.
