Battle starts over $134 billion in tariff refunds after Supreme Court ruling
Feb 22nd 2026
Roughly 300,000 US importers want $134 billion back after tariffs imposed under President Trump were struck down, but neither the Court nor the government has set a clear refund process or timeline.
- About 300,000 businesses are seeking up to $134 billion in tariff refunds.
- The Trump administration has said it would return duties if the Court ruled against the tariffs but has not detailed how to do so.
- Justice Brett Kavanaugh warned the refund process would be messy and could have significant consequences for the Treasury.
- Importers will likely need to file individual suits and the Court of International Trade is expected to handle much of the litigation.
- Treasury says it has cash to pay refunds but expects the process could take a year or longer.
- A 1998 Supreme Court decision produced $730 million in tariff refunds and required about two years to complete.
- Consumers are unlikely to see direct refunds because companies are unlikely to return higher prices paid earlier by shoppers.