354: From Ports to Refunds: Understanding Tariffs Today

For businesses in New Jersey and across the country, tariffs are a significant line item with massive implications for cash flow and supply chain stability. The landscape just shifted dramatically when the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that billions of dollars in tariffs imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) have been declared unlawful. Whether you’re a business owner wondering if you’re eligible for a refund or a CPA looking to provide critical guidance to your clients, our guest William McDevitt, CPA, shareholder at WilkinGuttenplan, provides the roadmap for protecting your bottom line. Topics discussed:How a tariff moves from “ship to entry,” and where businesses are most exposed in that processThe Supreme Court’s recent decision on tariffsHow businesses determine whether they’re eligible for a refundHow the refund portal is workingWhy businesses need to monitor and protect their refundAppeals process for claims that are rejectedWhy the refunds aren’t just automatically being processedExamples of how tariff issues play out for businessesShould businesses keep their tariff refunds?What CPAs should be asking their clients and businesses right nowHow businesses and CPAs should think about tariffs in the long-term Resources:Slides to accompany this episodeInternational Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) Duty Refunds (U.S. Customs and Border Protection)CAPE Tariff Refund Portal — What CPAs and Firms Need to Know (AICPA)