ACE CAPE (Centralized Automated Processing for Excess) is CBP’s online portal for IEEPA refund filings, opened April 20, 2026. Access requires ACE Portal credentials linked to the importer-of-record number. Filings include entry summaries, supporting documents, and statutory interest claims. Processing typically 60-90 days. The portal is technically straightforward but rejects filings with incomplete documentation.
CAPE is the technical platform; the substantive work is in the documentation. This guide focuses on the platform mechanics – credential setup, navigation, file upload requirements, and status monitoring.
Account setup and credential requirements
ACE Portal account linked to your importer-of-record number is the prerequisite. New ACE accounts require 24-72 hours for activation. CAPE module access is automatic for active ACE Portal users.
Navigation – finding CAPE in ACE
Log in at ace.cbp.dhs.gov. From the main menu, select “Refunds” → “CAPE – IEEPA Refund Filings.” This brings up the filing intake form for Phase 1.
Field-by-field walkthrough
Entry summary number: enter each entry number being claimed. ACE auto-populates entry date, port, and total duty.
IEEPA-attributable amount: per entry. System rejects values exceeding total duty paid.
Statutory interest claim: enter calculated interest amount. System validates against entry date.
Supporting documents: upload area accepts PDF up to 25 MB per file. Group documents by entry, not by document type.
Confirmation: review screen shows totals before submission.
Status monitoring
CAPE shows status as Submitted, Under Review, Information Requested, or Approved. Status updates typically 5-10 days for Submitted → Under Review; 60-90 days for Under Review → Approved. Information Requested means CBP needs additional documentation; respond within deadline or filing closes.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a separate CAPE account?
No. CAPE is a module within ACE Portal. Existing ACE Portal credentials work.
What file formats does CAPE accept?
PDF for documents. CSV/XLSX for entry-batch lists in some configurations. 25 MB per file maximum.
Can my customs broker file CAPE on my behalf?
Yes – with current Power of Attorney. Many importers prefer broker-filed; some prefer self-filed for control.
What if the system rejects my filing?
CAPE provides specific rejection reasons. Most rejections are documentation-related (missing supporting documents, IEEPA amount exceeding total duty). Fix and re-submit.
How do I track multiple filings?
CAPE displays a list of all your filings with status. Filter by entry number, port, or status.
Get started
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