U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers at the Ysleta Port of Entry recently seized $131,675 hidden in a BMW X4. The cash was concealed in foil-wrapped bundles inside a non-factory compartment, and the driver—a female Mexican national—was referred for prosecution.
While this case may sound extreme, it’s important to understand that most CBP cash seizures are not this dramatic. In fact, the majority of our clients are not involved in overt smuggling or criminal activity. They are everyday travelers—business owners, tourists, or individuals moving money for legitimate reasons—who simply fail to report currency over $10,000 or store it in a way that raises suspicion.
⚠️ You Don’t Have to Be Arrested to Lose Your Money
Unlike this case, most of our clients are not arrested. But that doesn’t mean they’re off the hook. CBP can—and often does—seize cash without filing criminal charges. The legal violation is the same: failure to declare or concealing currency, even if it’s tucked away in a backpack or under a seat.
Once the money is seized, the burden shifts to the traveler to prove the funds are legitimate and recover them through a complex administrative or judicial process. This can take months and often requires legal representation.
đź“Š El Paso Cash Seizure by the Numbers
So far in Fiscal Year 2025, the CBP El Paso Field Office has seized $2.7 million in currency. El Paso consistently ranks in the top 10 of the nation’s ports in currency seizures for enforcement of the cash reporting requirement. In fact, on average, for data from 2020 to 2025, El Paso ranks sixth in the nation, behind San Juan, Laredo, San Diego, Detroit, and Miami.
🧠What You Should Do If Your Cash Is Seized
If you’ve had money taken by CBP at the border, don’t wait. You have limited time to file take action – by filing a claim, offer in compromise, or petition for remission. The process is technical, and mistakes can cost you your chance to recover your funds.
We help clients across the country—especially in the El Paso region—navigate the seizure process, respond to CBP notices, and fight for the return of their money.
Travelers crossing into the U.S. must declare any currency over $10,000, whether entering or exiting. Failure to do so can result in civil forfeiture, criminal charges, and long-term legal consequences. If you or someone you know has had cash seized at the border, it’s essential to consult with an experienced customs and forfeiture attorney to protect your rights and explore options for recovery.
⌛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.
đź’µAct Now to Protect Your Cash
- 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.
- 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.
- Stay Informed and Prepared: We’ll keep you updated on your case and provide the tools and knowledge you need to make informed decisions.
đź•›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.
đź“ž Call us at (734) 855-4999
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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.
🏆 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.