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.
📊 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.