ACH enrollment is one of those setup steps that sounds technical but is genuinely simple, and it matters for anyone pursuing a refund. It is how money moves cleanly between your business and CBP.
What ACH is
ACH stands for Automated Clearing House. It is the electronic system used to transfer funds, and in the customs context it handles the movement of duties you owe and refunds you are owed. Enrolling connects your bank account to that flow.
Why it matters for refunds
When a refund claim is approved, the money has to get to you. ACH enrollment ensures that payout can happen electronically, without unnecessary friction. It is part of being fully set up to receive what you recover.
How it fits with the rest of setup
ACH is the third piece of the standard setup: create an ACE Portal account, file Form 5106 to establish your identity, and enroll in ACH for electronic payments. Together, these three steps make you ready to file and to be paid.
Getting set up
If ACH enrollment is the last box you need to check, do not let it stall your claim. We include setup guidance when you need it, so the mechanics do not slow down the recovery. Start with a free eligibility check to see what you could get back.