How do I know if my entries are eligible?
Quick answer
Upload your ES-003 entry-summary CSV at tariffi.io/intake/start. Tariffi's analysis engine automatically cross-references each entry's HTS codes against the CAPE-eligible tariff schedule, checks liquidation status, identifies disqualifying factors, and shows you a per-entry breakdown of eligible amounts and applicable fee tiers.
Detailed Answer
Determining entry eligibility involves cross-referencing multiple data points that Tariffi's engine handles automatically. Here is what gets checked and how.
Automated eligibility checks on your ES-003:
- HTS code matching. Each entry's Harmonized Tariff Schedule codes are compared against the CAPE Phase 1 eligible schedule to determine whether the goods were subject to IEEPA or Section 301 tariffs that have been adjusted.
- Liquidation status. Entries are categorized into three tiers: unliquidated (10% fee), recently liquidated within 180 days (15% fee), and liquidated beyond 180 days (25% fee / CIT filing required).
- Entry date validation. Entries must fall within the CAPE Phase 1 lookback window.
- Duplicate check. The engine flags entries where another party may have already filed a protest or CAPE declaration.
- Drawback conflict detection. Entries with existing drawback claims are flagged — a drawback and a CAPE refund on the same entry create a conflict that CBP will reject.
- Country of origin verification. The country of origin must match the tariff authority (e.g., China for Section 301 entries).
What you see after upload:
- A per-entry breakdown showing eligible/ineligible status with specific reasons
- Estimated recovery amounts per entry
- Aggregate estimated recovery with fee tier breakdown
- Flags for entries needing attention (approaching 180-day window, potential drawback conflicts, etc.)
Common reasons entries are ineligible:
- HTS code not covered by the current CAPE-eligible schedule
- Entry date outside the lookback window
- Entry already subject to a prior protest or drawback claim
- Country of origin does not match the tariff authority
The analysis is free and non-binding. You can upload your ES-003 and review the eligibility results without committing to anything. The engagement (and fee obligation) begins only when you sign the Contingency Fee Agreement.
Related Questions
Am I eligible for an IEEPA tariff refund?
You may be eligible if you are a U.S. importer of record who paid tariffs under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act on qualifying entries within the CAPE lookback window. Upload your ES-003 entry-summary CSV and Tariffi analyzes each entry's eligibility automatically — no commitment required to check.
What is an ES-003 file and how do I get it?
An ES-003 is CBP's standardized entry-summary export from the ACE portal in CSV format. It contains all data needed for CAPE declarations: entry numbers, HTS codes, duty amounts, and liquidation dates. Your customs broker can pull it, or you can export it directly from ace.cbp.gov if you have portal access.
What is the deadline for CAPE Phase 1?
CAPE Phase 1 does not have a single batch deadline. Each entry has its own 180-day protest window per 19 CFR § 174.12 starting from the liquidation date. Entries that have already passed this window may still qualify through a protective CIT filing. File sooner to capture more entries before their individual windows close.
How do I get a tariff refund?
Upload your ACE ES-003 entry-summary CSV to Tariffi. Our platform analyzes your entries for IEEPA and Section 301 overpayments, prepares the CAPE declaration data, and routes it to a CBP-licensed customs broker partner who files under their own license. No advance fees — you pay a contingency only when CBP approves your refund.
Need help?
Upload your ES-003 to see how much you could recover, or talk to our team.