Tariff Refund Recovery vs. DIY Filing
Filing a CBP protest yourself is possible — but one mistake can cost you your entire refund. Here's what you need to know.
Quick Answer
While you can technically file a CBP protest yourself, the process is complex and unforgiving. A single error in your filing — wrong entry number, incorrect tariff classification, missed deadline — can permanently disqualify your refund. Professional recovery services have a significantly higher success rate and handle all the complexity for you.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Tariff Arrow | DIY Filing |
|---|---|---|
| Upfront cost | $0 | $0 |
| Expertise required | None (we handle it) | High |
| Error risk | Minimal | High |
| Time commitment | Under 10 minutes | 20-40+ hours |
| CBP protest experience | Hundreds of filings | First time |
| Deadline tracking | Automated | Manual |
| Success rate | High | Unknown |
| Support if denied | Full re-filing support | On your own |
What DIY Filing Actually Requires
Filing a CBP protest under 19 U.S.C. §1514 requires: gathering all CBP Form 7501 entry summaries, correctly identifying the tariff provisions being protested, calculating the exact duty amounts subject to refund, preparing and submitting the protest to the correct CBP port within the 180-day window, and responding to any CBP information requests. Each step has specific requirements, and errors can be grounds for denial.
The Real Cost of Mistakes
CBP protest denials are often final. If your protest is denied due to a procedural error — wrong form, missing documentation, incorrect calculation — you may lose your right to that refund permanently. The only recourse is an expensive appeal to the Court of International Trade. For most importers, the 'savings' of DIY filing aren't worth the risk.
The Time Factor
Even experienced importers report spending 20-40+ hours researching the process, gathering documents, and preparing their filings. For businesses with multiple entries across different ports, the complexity multiplies. That's time you could spend running your business while professionals handle the recovery.
When DIY Might Work
If you have a single, simple entry with clear IEEPA-only tariffs, experience with CBP filings, and the time to research current protest procedures, DIY filing could be viable. But for most importers — especially those with multiple entries, mixed tariff categories, or limited customs experience — professional assistance dramatically improves outcomes.
Pros & Cons
Tariff Arrow
Pros
- No upfront cost
- Expert handling of all filings
- High success rate
- Handles multiple entries efficiently
- Full support if claim is questioned
Cons
- Contingency fee on recovered amount
- Less direct control over filings
DIY Filing
Pros
- No fees at all if successful
- Full control over the process
- Educational experience
Cons
- High risk of costly errors
- 20-40+ hours of your time
- No expert review of filings
- No support if protest is denied
- Must track all deadlines yourself
The Bottom Line
DIY filing is technically free but carries significant risk. One procedural error can cost you your entire refund — permanently. Professional recovery eliminates that risk while requiring minimal time from you.
- ✓Under 10 minutes of your time vs. 20-40+ hours
- ✓Expert-prepared filings with high success rates
- ✓Full support through the entire process, including denials
Related Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to Recover Your Tariff Refund?
Check your eligibility in under 2 minutes. No cost, no commitment — you only pay if we recover your refund.
Check Your Refund Now