CBP Issues Replacement Refund Check Instructions for Address Errors
U.S. Customs and Border Protection has posted instructions and information on how to obtain a replacement of a previously issued refund check for those who have recently received a letter from the agency indicating that a CBP issued refund was returned to the U.S. Treasury as undeliverable and was canceled. CBP's instructions provide information on how to update an address with CBP, as well as how to receive a replacement check through Automated Clearinghouse (ACH).
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Correcting a Changed Address that is not Updated in CBP's Database
Submit CBP Form 5106 to correct address. If you changed your address and did not properly update it within CBP’s database you must complete CBP Form 5106 with the correct address. CBP Form 5106 is available here.
When a valid bond is on file. If you have a valid bond on file with CBP you must update your bond information by filing a bond rider. For your address to be properly updated in CBP’s database you must send the completed CBP Form 5106 along with the bond rider to the Port location that handles your bond. Once this process has been completed, return a copy of the letter received along with a statement that your address and bond have been updated to CBP's Revenue Division.
When no valid bond is on file. If you do not have a valid bond on file with CBP please complete CBP Form 5106 with the correct address and return it to the Revenue Division with a copy of the letter received. The address will be updated in CBP’s database.
Brokers must submit POAs. If you are a broker obtaining this information on behalf of your client you must submit a valid Power of Attorney (POA) before the replacement check can be issued. Include the POA with a copy of the letter received along with a statement that the client’s address and bond (if applicable) have been updated.
Correspondence with Revenue Division. In all correspondence to the Revenue Division, include a valid contact name, telephone number and/or valid email address in case CBP would need to contact your company for further information. Once the Revenue Division receives your response and verifies the address has been updated in CBP’s database a replacement check will be issued to the updated address. Please be aware that the processing time for replacement checks is 6-8 weeks.
Address all correspondence related to replacement checks to: U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Revenue Division/Refunds, 6650 Telecom Drive Suite 100, Indianapolis, IN 46278.
When refund has been voided in CBP database. In some cases, the importer number used for the refund has been voided in CBP’s database. This will require you to consult the “Voided Importer Record FAQs,” which are available here.
Additional contact information. Refund Inquiry Phone Line: (317) 298-1200, ext. 4015. Refund Fax Line: (317) 298-1071 or 298-1259. Refund Email Address: revrefundinquiry@cbp.dhs.gov. When leaving messages on the refund inquiry line, provide your name, telephone number, entry number if applicable, importer number and dollar amount of refund, if known. CBP will only be able to research your inquiry before returning your call if enough information is provided in your message. Use the email address for expedited service.
Receiving Funds More Quickly Thru ACH
Those who want to receive funds electronically through Automated Clearinghouse (ACH) should review CBP's "Details on ACH Refund" webpage here. CBP states electronic payments reduce the risk of receiving and depositing Treasury checks. In order to receive your payment through ACH you must complete the ACH Vendor/Miscellaneous Payment Enrollment Form which can be obtained by contacting (317) 298-1200 ext. 1178. Direct any questions you may have regarding completion of the form to (317) 298-1200 ext. 1178. Your completed enrollment form along with a copy of the letter received should be sent to the Refunds Team via mail, fax or the documents can be scanned and emailed.
Once your completed ACH Refund enrollment form has been processed the Refund Team will initiate processing of your replacement check. CBP notes that although you have requested to receive your replacement funds via ACH, your refund payment is still subject to the 6-8 week replacement processing time. If necessary, review the ACH Refund Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs), which are available here.