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Supreme Court Strikes Tariffs, $166 Billion Refunds Loom

3/15/2026

50 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

On February 20, 2026, the U.S. Supreme Court invalidated tariffs under IEEPA, affecting about $166 billion in refunds for more than 330,000 importers.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection is developing a new online refund portal, with progress 40%–80% complete.
Importers are advised to enroll in the Automated Clearinghouse Refund Program to ensure timely processing, as the Court of International Trade requires refunds to include interest.

History

Historical Context

The International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA), enacted in 1977, allows the U.S. President to regulate international commerce during national emergencies. In 2025, the Supreme Court ruled that tariffs imposed under IEEPA by President Trump were unconstitutional, affecting over $166 billion in trade. This ruling has prompted U.S. Customs and Border Protection to develop a new online refund portal for affected importers.

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Story summary

On February 20, 2026, the U.S. Supreme Court invalidated tariffs under IEEPA, affecting about $166 billion in refunds for more than 330,000 importers.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection is developing a new online refund portal, with progress 40%–80% complete.
Importers are advised to enroll in the Automated Clearinghouse Refund Program to ensure timely processing, as the Court of International Trade requires refunds to include interest.

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