Category: News

Preserve Your Right to Tariff Refunds Under Trump’s 2025 IEEPA Tariffs

Posted by Jason P. Wapiennik on

Importers who are paying tariffs under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) in 2025 may be eligible for refunds if courts invalidate the tariffs. Multiple lawsuits are challenging the legality of these tariffs, and importers who file proper protests may recover the duties paid.

Why Timely Protests Are Critical to Recover Duties 🕐

Timely protests are critical to recover duties paid under IEEPA tariffs. “Liquidation” occurs when CBP “finalizes” an entry; that is, makes a final determination that the entry is correct. This usually happens within 314 days of the entry date, but it can vary.

Without a protest filed within 180 days of liquidation, importers may lose their right to a refund—even if the tariffs are later ruled unlawful.

How to Identify Entries Affected by IEEPA Tariffs

To identify entries affected by IEEPA tariffs, importers should review their customs data through the Automated Commercial Environment (ACE). Regular downloads of ACE reports help maintain a complete record of historical entries and ensure no affected shipments are overlooked.

Monitor Liquidation Dates to Protect Refund Eligibility

Monitoring liquidation dates is essential to protect refund eligibility. Importers should track liquidation timelines for all entries, especially those from early 2025, to ensure protests are filed within the 180-day window.

👉Importers can check when their entries liquidate on Official Notice of Extension, Suspension and Liquidation portal.

Request Liquidation Extensions to Buy Time

Requesting liquidation extensions can buy time to evaluate legal options. CBP may grant extensions for up to three years at its discretion. Importers should submit extension requests promptly and confirm approval with CBP. Liquidation extension requests are made with the Center for Excellence and Expertise assigned to the entry.

File Protests and Request Litigation Stays

File protests and request liquidation extensions to preserve your rights. When submitting a protest, include a request that CBP stay the protest pending the outcome of the IEEPA litigation. If honored by CBP, this ensures your claim remains viable if the courts invalidate the tariffs, without having to file a summons with the Court of International Trade.

Prepare for Court Action if Protests Are Denied

Prepare for court action if protests are denied. Importers may need to file suit in the U.S. Court of International Trade to continue pursuing refunds. Legal representation is essential to navigate this process effectively.

Document Claims and Exemptions Thoroughly

Document claims and exemptions thoroughly to support your refund eligibility. Maintain detailed records of tariff payments, entry data, and any applicable exemptions or special statuses.

Special Refund Considerations for FTZ Entries

Special refund considerations apply to FTZ entries in privileged foreign status. Importers with goods entered into Foreign Trade Zones under this designation may need to take additional steps to secure refunds.

⚖️Consult with a Customs Lawyer

Contact a customs lawyer to discuss your case, by reaching out to Great Lakes Customs Law by any method below.

📞 Call us at (734) 855-4999
💬 Text or WhatsApp us for quick support
📝 Fill out our contact form to get started

$16,000+ cash seized by Detroit CBP

CBP Seizes $16,619 at Ambassador Bridge: What You Need to Know About Currency Reporting

Posted by Jason P. Wapiennik on

If you’re crossing the Ambassador Bridge between Detroit and Windsor, it’s critical to understand U.S. currency reporting laws. On April 18, 2025, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers seized $16,619 from an outbound traveler who failed to report the funds as required by federal law.

This incident, shared publicly by Director of Field Operations (DFO) for Detroit on X (formerly Twitter), is part of a pattern of cash seizures at land border crossings in the Detroit area. Whether you’re traveling for business, family, or leisure, failing to properly declare currency can result in immediate seizure—and potentially permanent forfeiture. Here’s the X post:

🚨 Why Was the Cash Seized?

CBP cited a failure to report under 31 U.S.C. § 5316(a)(1)(A), which requires travelers to file a FinCEN Form 105 when transporting more than $10,000 in currency or monetary instruments into or out of the United States. This law applies to land border crossings just as it does to airports.

Even if the cash is legally earned and intended for legitimate purposes, failure to report it properly can trigger seizure under 31 U.S.C. § 5317(c)(2), which authorizes CBP to retain and forfeit unreported currency.

🧾 Common Violations at the Border

CBP officers at the Ambassador Bridge are trained to detect patterns of currency smuggling and misreporting. The most common violations include:

  1. Failure to Report – Not filing the required FinCEN Form 105 when carrying more than $10,000.
  2. Structuring – Dividing cash among multiple people or trips to avoid the reporting threshold (a violation of 31 U.S.C. § 5324).
  3. Bulk Cash Smuggling – Concealing currency in vehicles, luggage, or clothing to avoid detection (a felony under 31 U.S.C. § 5332).

📍 What Happens After a Seizure?

Once CBP seizes your money, they will issue a Notice of Seizure and Intent to Forfeit, which starts a strict 30-day deadline. You must act quickly to preserve your rights. Your options include:

Each option has legal consequences, and choosing the wrong one can cost you your money. Read this👉 What Option is Best to Get Seized Money Back from CBP?

⚖️ Legal Help for Ambassador Bridge Seizures

If your cash was seized at the Ambassador Bridge, you need legal guidance from someone who understands both federal forfeiture law and local enforcement practices. CBP never returns money without a fight, and time is not on your side.

⌛Take Back Control of Your Money Today

Don’t let a Customs money seizure derail your travel plans or financial stability. At Great Lakes Customs Law, we understand the stress and complexity of currency seizures. With years of experience on almost 700 cases, we’re here to guide you through the legal process and fight for your rights.

💵Act Now to Protect Your Cash

  1. Contact Us for a Free Consultation: Let’s discuss your case and explore your legal options. We’ll listen to your story, understand your needs, and develop a tailored strategy to recover your seized money.
  2. Gather Your Documentation: Start collecting relevant documents—such as bank statements, tax returns, and travel records. We’ll evaluate this to determine the best way forward for you.
  3. Stay Informed and Prepared: We’ll keep you updated on your case and provide the tools and knowledge you need to make informed decisions.

🕛Don’t Delay – Every Moment Counts

If your cash has been seized by Customs, time is critical. Contact us immediately to take the first step toward resolving your case and reclaiming your money.

📞 Call us at (734) 855-4999
💬 Text or WhatsApp us for quick support
📝 Fill out our contact form to get started

🏆 Real Results That Speak for Themselves

Before you decide how to respond to a currency seizure, take a moment to explore our real-world case results. We’ve successfully handled nearly 700 cases, recovering millions of dollars for travelers, importers, and everyday people just like you. These outcomes aren’t just numbers—they’re proof that experience, strategy, and persistence matter.

👉See our 15 year track record of success

$20k in US Currency Seized by CBP in DFW Airport

💼 CBP Currency Seizures at Dallas-Fort Worth Airport: What You Need to Know

Posted by Jason P. Wapiennik on

If you or someone you know has had cash seized by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) at the Dallas-Fort Worth area ports of entry, you’re not alone. In recent months, CBP has continued enforcement of federal currency reporting laws, resulting in multiple seizures of U.S. currency for alleged violations of the Bank Secrecy Act.

📌 Recent Money Seizures at DFW Airport

Two recent money seizures were published in the September 12, 2025 Notice of Seizure and Intent to Forfeit:

  1. Case No. 2025550100164801
    • Date of Seizure: July 6, 2025
    • Location: Port of Dallas-Fort Worth, TX
    • Amount: $19,000 USD
    • Violation: 31 USC §§ 5316(a)(1)(A), 5317(c)(2), 5324(c)
  2. Case No. 2025550100188101
    • Date of Seizure: September 5, 2025
    • Location: Port of Dallas-Fort Worth, TX
    • Amount: $15,000 USD
    • Violation: 31 USC §§ 5316(a)(1)(B), 5317(c)(2)

These cases involve alleged failures to properly report currency over $10,000 when entering or leaving the United States, as required by federal law, and in on case, a structuring violation. Both cash seizures come on the heels of a post on X by the Director of Field Operations for Houston, Texas, about a structuring cash seizure CBP made in July at DFW:

✈️ Why DFW Airport Is a Hotspot for CBP Enforcement

Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) is one of the busiest and most strategically important international airports in the United States. Serving over 70 million passengers annually, DFW is a major gateway for international travel and cargo, making it a focal point for CBP enforcement actions.

With direct flights to over 260 destinations worldwide and a robust infrastructure for customs inspections, DFW is equipped with advanced screening technologies and a large CBP presence. Travelers passing through DFW should be especially vigilant about currency reporting requirements, as enforcement is frequent and thorough.

Whether you’re flying internationally for business, leisure, or relocation, DFW’s prominence means that CBP officers are highly trained and proactive in identifying potential violations of federal currency laws.

⚖️ What Are Your Legal Options?

If your money was seized, you have the right to contest the forfeiture. You may file a petition for remission or mitigation, among other options. However, strict deadlines apply, and failure to act promptly can result in permanent loss of your funds.

⌛Take Back Control of Your Money Today

Don’t let a Customs money seizure derail your travel plans or financial stability. At Great Lakes Customs Law, we understand the stress and complexity of currency seizures. With years of experience on almost 700 cases, we’re here to guide you through the legal process and fight for your rights.

💵Act Now to Protect Your Cash

  1. Contact Us for a Free Consultation: Let’s discuss your case and explore your legal options. We’ll listen to your story, understand your needs, and develop a tailored strategy to recover your seized money.
  2. Gather Your Documentation: Start collecting relevant documents—such as bank statements, tax returns, and travel records. We’ll evaluate this to determine the best way forward for you.
  3. Stay Informed and Prepared: We’ll keep you updated on your case and provide the tools and knowledge you need to make informed decisions.

🕛Don’t Delay – Every Moment Counts

If your cash has been seized by Customs, time is critical. Contact us immediately to take the first step toward resolving your case and reclaiming your money.

📞 Call us at (734) 855-4999
💬 Text or WhatsApp us for quick support
📝 Fill out our contact form to get started

🏆 Real Results That Speak for Themselves

Before you decide how to respond to a currency seizure, take a moment to explore our real-world case results. We’ve successfully handled nearly 700 cases, recovering millions of dollars for travelers, importers, and everyday people just like you. These outcomes aren’t just numbers—they’re proof that experience, strategy, and persistence matter.

👉See our 15 year track record of success

Explore the Full Process of Currency Seizure & Recovery

To learn more about what happens after a seizure, how penalties are assessed, and how you can recover your funds, visit our comprehensive guide:

👉 A CBP Money Seizure Lawyer’s Guide to Recovering Seized Cash

Don’t navigate this process alone—get informed and take action.

CBP Can Garnish Your Tax Refund for an Unpaid Penalty

Customs Penalties Can Trigger Tax Refund Garnishment: What Importers Need to Know

Posted by Jason P. Wapiennik on

If you’ve received a penalty from U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)—especially for violations like importing counterfeit goods under 19 U.S.C. § 1526—you may be facing more than just a fine. Ignoring a customs penalty can result in aggressive collection efforts, including the interception of your federal income tax refund through the Treasury Offset Program (TOP).

This article explains how CBP collections work, the risks of inaction, and some potential strategies to protect your refund and resolve the debt. Instead of ignoring a penalty, file a Petition for Mitigation or Remission – Relief from Customs Decision to avoid this horrible scenario.

The Risk: CBP Can Garnish Your Tax Refund—and More

If you are thinking about ignoring a penalty from CBP, think again. CBP has the authority to refer unpaid debts—including fines and penalties for counterfeit imports—to the Department of the Treasury. Once referred, the Treasury Offset Program (TOP) can reduce or eliminate your federal tax refund to satisfy the debt.

But it doesn’t stop there. Treasury can also offset other federal payments owed to you, including:

  • Social Security benefits
  • Federal retirement payments
  • Vendor payments
  • Certain federal grants or reimbursements

This means that any money the federal government owes you could be intercepted to satisfy a customs-related debt. This applies even if:

  • You were unaware of the penalty, although you may have some basis to challenge it based on lack of constitutional due process
  • You live outside the U.S.
  • You file a joint tax return.

If you file jointly, your spouse may be able to protect their portion of the refund by submitting an Injured Spouse Claim and Allocation.

What Triggers Collection Action?

CBP may initiate collection for:

  • Unpaid fines and penalties under any customs law, but often seen under 19 U.S.C. § 1526 (e.g., for importing counterfeit goods).
  • Promissory notes or debit vouchers related to customs violations.
  • Failure to respond to a penalty notice or settle the debt within the required timeframe.
  • Once the debt is deemed “legally enforceable,” CBP can refer it for offset without further warning.

No Good Options To Respond

The CBP letter outlines three options that are not great, unless the penalty is in error:

  • Pay the Debt in Full
  • Request a Voluntary Repayment Agreement
  • Dispute the Debt (if it is issued in error/by mistake, or because the amount is wrong)

Consider an Offer in Compromise

It may be possible to submit an offer in compromise under 19 U.S.C. § 1617, asking CBP to settle the debt for less than the full amount. However, this route is untested and seems unlikely to succeed if CBP or Treasury believes the debt is collectible—even if it takes years for them to collect. The fact that the government is actively intercepting tax refunds suggests they view the debt as enforceable and recoverable. Still, for some individuals with long-term financial hardship, it may be worth exploring with legal counsel.

What Happens If You Ignore the Notice

Never ignore a CBP penalty. If you take no action:

  • Your tax refund will be intercepted.
  • You may face additional penalties under the False Claims Act or other federal statutes if you submit false information.
  • If the debt is discharged but not collected, it may be reported to the IRS as taxable income, increasing your tax liability.

How Can You Protect Your Refund?

You may be able to protect your refund using one potential—but not guaranteed—strategy: adjust your tax withholding so that you don’t expect a large refund. In theory, if there’s no refund to intercept, the Treasury Offset Program has nothing to collect.

This approach may work for some or for a time, but it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution and the government has its own way to respond. It’s important to consult with a customs penalty defense attorney or tax professional to determine what’s best for your situation.

⚖️Consult with a Customs Lawyer

Contact a customs lawyer to discuss your case, by reaching out to Great Lakes Customs Law by any method below.

📞 Call us at (734) 855-4999
💬 Text or WhatsApp us for quick support
📝 Fill out our contact form to get started

Customs Money Seizure

Case Study: Two Currency Seizures at DFW – Why Hiring an Attorney Matters

Posted by Jason P. Wapiennik on

When U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) seizes currency for failure to report amounts over $10,000 under 31 USC 5316, the path to recovering your money can be complex, time-consuming, and full of legal pitfalls. Two recent cases from the Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW) port of entry illustrate the stark difference between navigating this process with an attorney versus going it alone.

Case 1: $40,228 Seized – Represented by Great Lakes Customs Law

  • Violation: Failure to report under 31 USC 5316
  • Amount Seized: $40,228
  • Date Seized: August 22, 2024
  • Attorney Hired: ✅ Yes
  • Petition Filed: September 26, 2024
  • Decision Made: March 5, 2025
  • Outcome: CBP returned all but $5,000

This case demonstrates the efficiency and effectiveness of hiring an attorney, which was in this case was Great Lakes Customs Law. We filed a petition for remission for this client, which was decided by CBP in just over six months after the date of seizure. Our client recovered nearly 88% of the seized funds and was very happy with the outcome. Importantly, had the petition been denied or too high a penalty required, we could have filed a supplemental petition, or pivoted to a claim or offer in compromise, keeping multiple options open.

Case 2: $14,310 Seized – Represented Self/No Attorney

  • Violation: Failure to report under 31 USC 5316
  • Amount Seized: $14,310
  • Date Seized: November 19, 2024
  • Attorney Hired: ❌ No
  • Offer in Compromise Filed: 10% of seized amount
  • Offer Rejected: August 19, 2025
  • Outcome: No refund of offer check; no decision letter received

We were contacted by this individual who shared with their story with us. This person chose not to hire a customs attorney and instead represented themselves and submitted an Offer in Compromise under 19 USC 1617, offering 10% of the seized amount. After waiting 9 months, the offer in compromise was rejected. Worse, the person did not know it was rejected because they did not receive a formal decision letter or a refund of the submitted check! Once they received the decision letter, the time for responding had already passed, but after repeated follow-ups, CBP extended the deadline by only 10 days. That person faced a difficult choice:

  • Submit a new offer in compromise, which may take months again
  • File a claim, which could lead to litigation

Key Takeaways: Why Hiring an Attorney Makes a Difference

FactorCase 1 (Attorney)Case 2 (Self-Represented)
Processing Time~5 months~9+ months and counting
Outcome88% of funds returnedOffer rejected, no refund
Options AvailableSupplemental petition, claim (court trial), offerA new Offer in Compromise, claim (court trial)
Communication with CBPHandled professionallyDelays, missing mail, short deadlines
Stress & UncertaintyMinimalHigh and ongoing

Conclusion

Hiring an attorney for a currency seizure case isn’t just about legal expertise—it’s about preserving your options, reducing uncertainty, and maximizing your chances of recovering your money. As these two DFW cases show, the difference can be thousands of dollars and months of stress.

If CBP has seized your money, don’t wait. Contact a customs attorney who understands the process and can advocate for your rights.

🏆 Real Results That Speak for Themselves

Before you decide how to respond to a currency seizure, take a moment to explore our real-world case results. We’ve successfully handled nearly 700 cases, recovering millions of dollars for travelers, importers, and everyday people just like you. These outcomes aren’t just numbers—they’re proof that experience, strategy, and persistence matter.

👉See our 15 year track record of success

Explore the Full Process of Currency Seizure & Recovery

To learn more about what happens after a seizure, how penalties are assessed, and how you can recover your funds, visit our comprehensive guide:

👉 A CBP Money Seizure Lawyer’s Guide to Recovering Seized Cash

Don’t navigate this process alone—get informed and take action.

⌛Take Back Control of Your Money Today

Don’t let a Customs money seizure derail your travel plans or financial stability. At Great Lakes Customs Law, we understand the stress and complexity of currency seizures. With years of experience on almost 700 cases, we’re here to guide you through the legal process and fight for your rights.

💵Act Now to Protect Your Cash

  1. Contact Us for a Free Consultation: Let’s discuss your case and explore your legal options. We’ll listen to your story, understand your needs, and develop a tailored strategy to recover your seized money.
  2. Gather Your Documentation: Start collecting relevant documents—such as bank statements, tax returns, and travel records. We’ll evaluate this to determine the best way forward for you.
  3. Stay Informed and Prepared: We’ll keep you updated on your case and provide the tools and knowledge you need to make informed decisions.

🕛Don’t Delay – Every Moment Counts

If your cash has been seized by Customs, time is critical. Contact us immediately to take the first step toward resolving your case and reclaiming your money.

📞 Call us at (734) 855-4999
💬 Text or WhatsApp us for quick support
📝 Fill out our contact form to get started

$15,000 seized cash from CBP displayed on a table

Detroit Airport Cash Seizure by CBP nets $15k

Posted by Jason P. Wapiennik on

CBP officers in detroit seized $15,000 from a traveler who allegedly failed (after multiple times she was asked) to report how much money she was traveling with. The report she provided was $9,000, which is below the reporting threshold under 31 USC 5316 required to be made on the FinCEN 105 form. Because customs officers searched her and her baggage and discovered she was really transporting more than $10,000 — that is, $15,000, customs agents seized the money.

Detroit CBP seizes cash from arriving and departing travelers for currency reporting violations. These violations include a failure to report more than $10,000 in cash (all cash must be reported, not just the amount over $10,000); structuring (dividing money between people so no one has more than $10,000); and bulk cash smuggling (hiding unreported money with the intention it not be found). If U.S. Customs and Border Protection has seized your cash at the Detroit Metropolitan Airport, Detroit-Windsor Tunnel, the Ambassador Bridge, or any of the other ports of entry, you should get legal help immediately!

Take Back Control of Your Money Today

Don’t let a failure to report cash to Customs ruin your travel plans or financial stability. At Great Lakes Customs Law, we understand the complexities and emotional stress that come with currency seizures. We have the experience and are here to help you navigate the legal process and fight for your rights.

Act Now to Protect Your Cash

  1. Contact Us for a Free Consultation: Lets discuss your case and explore your legal options. We will listen to your story, understand your needs, and develop a tailored strategy to recover your seized money.
  2. Gather Your Documentation: Start collecting all relevant documents, such as bank statements and tax returns, to support your case. We will guide you on the best way to present this information.
  3. Stay Informed and Prepared: We will keep you updated on the progress of your case and provide you with the knowledge and tools you need to make informed decisions.

Don’t Delay – There is No Time to Waste

SMS/Text Msg Us  WhatsApp Chat

Every moment counts after a Customs cash seizure. Contact us immediately to take the first step towards resolving your case and reclaiming your money. Call us at (734) 855-4999 or fill out our online contact form to get started.

Trump Tariff Exemption: IEEPA and 50 USC 1702(b)(3)

Posted by Jason P. Wapiennik on

There is an exemption to certain tariffs imposed by President Trump under authority of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act.

The law is 50 USC 1702(b), which exempts from duty the following:

information or informational materials, including but not limited to, publications, films, posters, phonograph records, photographs, microfilms, microfiche, tapes, compact disks, CD ROMs, artworks, and news wire feeds.

These exceptions have found their way into the HTSUS. CBP explains it as follows:

Headings 9903.01.22, 9903.01.12, 9903.01.03, and 9903.01.31 describe informational materials, including but not limited to, publications, films, posters, phonograph records, photographs, microfilms, microfiche, tapes, compact discs, CD ROMs, artworks, and news wire feeds.

Goods properly classified under the following headings and subheadings of the HTSUS may qualify for the exception under 9903.01.22, 9903.01.12, 9903.01.03, and 9903.01.31:  Chapter 49; goods provided for in headings 3704, 3705, 3706, 5807, 8310, and 9701 through 9705, inclusive; goods provided for in subheadings 6307.90.30, 6307.90.85, 8523.80.10, 8523.29, 8523.41, 8523.49, 9405.61, and 9405.69.

You can read the FAQ here. That’s all the guidance that exists for what type of goods qualify for this exemption, with sparse instances of how it has been interpreted; for example, in the past, religious texts have been considered to qualify as informational materials when coming from Iran.

To learn if your goods qualify for this exemption, consider hiring us to make a Binding Ruling Request with CBP.

IEEPA Tariff exemption questions?

Do you have questions about IEEPA tariff exemptions? We have answers for you. Great Lakes Customs Law has been advising importers for more than 15 years. Call us at (734) 855-4999 or fill out the form below:

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Fake Cartier Jewelery Seized by CBP

Penalties for Christmas

Posted by Jason P. Wapiennik on

CBP officers at the port of Louisville, Kentucky, inspected some packages arriving from China. The packages were destined for Arizona, Virginia, Florida, and New York. Here’s the details from the CBP story:

LOUISVILLE, Ky— In two days, last week, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers in Louisville seized four shipments containing 962 pieces of counterfeit designer watches, bracelets, necklaces, and earrings. The items were deemed to be counterfeit by CBP’s Centers of Excellence and Expertise, the agency’s trade experts, and if genuine, would have had a combined Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) over $18 million.

The shipments arrived from Hong Kong and China on December 17 and 18. When CBP officers examined the shipments to determine the admissibility of the goods, they found 459 bracelets displaying the logos of Cartier, Chanel, Fendi, Hermes, Louis Vuitton, and Van Cleef and Arpels, 43 pairs of earrings with Van Cleef and Arpels and Cartier logos, 20 necklaces with Van Cleef and Arpels logos, and 440 watches bearing the Rolex logo. The items were seized for infringing on the designer’s protected trademarks. The shipment was heading to residences in Arizona, Virginia, Florida and New York and had the items been real, the MSRP for these products would have been $18.81 million.

The packages were filled with loads of counterfeit luxury goods which, if genuine, would be worth $18 million. The goods included earrings, necklaces, bracelets & watches seized by Louisville CBP.

Counterfeit seizures very often lead to penalties, hence, the title of the blog post, “Penalties for Christmas”. Order counterfeit goods, get penalty from CBP. Easy as that.

What makes counterfeit goods illegal to import?

Counterfeit goods are illegal to import into the United States as a violation of law 19 USC 1526. Because they are illegal, they will be seized. Because they are illegal, CBP has authority to issue a penalty (for a first-time offense) up to the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price of the goods as if they were genuine. So in this case, CBP would have authority to issue up to $18 million in penalties.

If you find yourself with a notice of seizure letter for counterfeit goods you should read our CBP Seizure for Online Counterfeit Purchases FAQ.

Why do people import counterfeit goods?

In our experience people import counterfeit goods for two primary reasons:

  1. People get carried away with online shopping and buy things for themselves and for family for personal use
  2. People open up online and brick-and-mortar boutiques where they sell “inspired designs” (ahem, counterfeit).

Whatever the reason, for some reason, people are surprised to get a sheet of paper in the mail that says they owe a ton of money for something that they paid only a few dollars for. Worse yet, they’re stuck dealing with the penalty.

How does CBP collect the penalty?

CBP collects the penalty in a variety of ways. CBP has the power to intercept tax refunds and credits through the Treasury Offset Program and/or by bringing a civil action in Federal district court for the penalty amount.

What if I get a penalty for counterfeits from CBP?

If you get a penalty for counterfeits from CBP, you should definitely file a petition for mitigation of the penalty. You could get a substantial reduction in the penalty amount through mitigation offered by the Fines, Penalties and Forfeitures Office. We have a lot of experience of getting great results for clients on their CBP penalty cases, including substantial reductions and even some cancellations. You can see some history of our success is HERE.

Of course, results will vary from case to case, and no result could be guaranteed. Customs maintains a list of mitigating factors and aggravating factors that it looks for, and which should part of the argument and analysis of any petition that is filed for them; without a careful and thoughtful analysis of those factors that customs looks for, you may end up pay more than necessary.

If you have had your merchandise seized or have received a notice of penalty from customs, call our office at (734) 855-4999 to speak to a customs lawyer about the possibility of getting your penalty reduced, or e-mail us through our contact page. We are able to assist petitions and in penalty cases by customs

Cash and Gold Seized by CBP in Dulles

Dulles CBP Seizes $90K in Cash from 5 people: August 2024

Posted by Jason P. Wapiennik on

The latest CBP money seizure news publicized comes to us from Dulles airport (again). In the story below, CBP seized a total of $90,535 from different people at different dates in August.

CBP seized the money for violation of the currency reporting requirements, which includes the failure to report the currency using a FinCEN 105 form.

STERLING, Va. – U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers remind travelers heading on overseas trips to comply with U.S. currency reporting laws after officers seized a combined $90,535 from five travelers during August at Washington Dulles International Airport.

Travelers can take as much currency or other monetary instruments they want on their international trips; however, federal law requires travelers to report all currency of $10,000 or greater to a CBP officer. CBP officers will assist travelers in completing the U.S. Treasury Department currency reporting form – the Report of International Transportation of Currency or Monetary Instruments [FINCEN 105].

Travelers can get an early start on reporting their currency by completing the FINCEN 105 PDF, or guided FINCEN 105 online form on CBP’s website prior to a CBP arrivals inspection or departure inspection.

In addition to having their currency seized, travelers risk other consequences, such as missing their departure or connecting flight, interrupting vacation plans, or facing potential criminal prosecution.

Of the five seizures, four were recorded on travelers departing the United States to either Bogota, Colombia, Doha, Qatar, or Accra, Ghana. The fifth seizure was recorded on a traveler arriving from Shanghai, China.

CBP currency detector dog Fuzz, a 4-year-old male yellow labrador retriever, helped to detect unreported currency during three of the seizures.

During each inspection, CBP officers explained U.S. currency reporting laws to the travelers and asked how much currency they possessed. Each of the travelers provided verbal and written declarations of their currency, and as necessary, officers helped travelers complete FINCEN 105 forms for those who reported over $10,000.

During subsequent searches of the travelers and their carryon baggage, CBP officers found additional unreported currency and seized the currency.

CBP is not releasing any of the travelers’ names because none were criminally charged.

Has Detroit Metro Airport CBP seized your cash?

If CBP at Detroit Metro Airport seized your cash, you need a lawyer. Read our trusted customs money seizure legal guide (or watch the videos) and can contact us for a free currency seizure consultation by clicking the contact buttons on this page.
Stacks of money seized by CBP officers in Pharr, Texas.

Texas CBP seizes $85K in unreported and smuggled money; 1 arrested

Posted by Jason P. Wapiennik on

Another day, another customs money seizure. This one in particular happened to the U.S.-Mexico border in Pharr, Texas, and actually involved an arrest. CBP officers can arrest anyone for the not reporting, structuring, or smuggling cash, but most often, they do not.

The cash reporting requirement laws in Title 31 of the U.S. Code allow for CBP to choose whether to proceed as a civil matter or criminal matter. For the unlucky 19 year old fellow involved in the what seems to be a bulk cash smuggling offense, he was arrested.

There are no specifics on how the money was hidden within the vehicle, only that it was discovered by a non-intrusive examination. Here’s the story:

PHARR, Texas – U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers at Hidalgo/Pharr/Anzalduas Port of Entry this weekend seized $85,000 in unreported currency hidden within a vehicle during an outbound examination.

“Or officer continue to maintain strict vigilance and that dedication to duty, inspection skill and experience contributed to this significant outbound currency seizure,” said Port Director Carlos Rodriguez, Hidalgo/Pharr/Anzalduas Port of Entry. “These types of seizures, often involving proceeds from illicit activity, have significant impact and reflect CBP’s ongoing commitment to our priority border security mission.”

Stacks containing $85,000 in unreported U.S. currency seized by CBP officers during an outbound examination at Pharr International Bridge.

The seizure occurred on Sunday, April 14 at the Pharr International Bridge when a CBP officer referred a southbound vehicle driven by a 19-year-old male U.S. citizen for a secondary examination. Following a thorough examination that included use of a nonintrusive inspection system, CBP officers discovered a total of $85,000 in unreported currency hidden within the vehicle.

CBP officers seized the currency. Homeland Security Investigations special agents arrested the driver and initiated a criminal investigation.

Has Texas CBP seized your money?

If Texas CBP seized your money at Pharr, Hidalgo, Anzalduas, Laredo, or elsewhere, we urge you to call us for a consultation before considering doing it yourself. You probably will not be happy with the outcome if you do, based on their’ aggressive posture in most cases. Read our trusted customs money seizure legal guide (or watch the videos) and can contact us for a free currency seizure consultation by clicking the contact buttons on this page.