If U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) seized your cash at the Brownsville border crossing, you’re not alone. Every year, travelers crossing into Mexico or returning to the U.S. through Brownsville face currency seizures for failing to report amounts over $10,000. This post explains why these seizures happen, what your legal options are, and how to get your money back—with a real case study from a recent CBP news release.
Case Study: $107,000 Seized at Brownsville Port of Entry
In late August 2025, U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers at the Brownsville Port of Entry seized $107,152 in unreported U.S. currency during two separate outbound inspections
- First Seizure – August 26, 2025: CBP officers at the Brownsville and Matamoros International Bridge stopped a 43-year-old male U.S. citizen driving a 2014 Chevrolet. During a routine outbound inspection, officers discovered $36,500 hidden in the vehicle and $639 on the driver.
- Second Seizure – August 30, 2025: At the Veterans International Bridge, CBP officers inspected a 31-year-old female U.S. citizen driving a 2019 Chevrolet. Officers found $70,013 in bulk currency concealed within the vehicle 1.
In both cases, CBP seized the currency and vehicles, arrested the drivers, and transferred them to Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) for further investigation. Port Director Tater Ortiz emphasized that such seizures are often linked to illicit activity and are critical to CBP’s border security mission
These cases underscore a key legal point: It is not illegal to carry more than $10,000, but failing to declare it or concealing it with intent to evade reporting requirements is a federal offense. Individuals whose currency is seized may petition for its return, but they must prove the legitimate source and intended use of the funds
Why Did CBP Seize Your Cash?
CBP enforces federal laws that require travelers to report if they are carrying more than $10,000 in cash or monetary instruments. This law applies whether you’re entering or leaving the United States. If you fail to report, CBP can seize the money—even if it’s legally yours.
Common reasons for seizure include:
- Failure to file or inaccurate filing of FinCEN Form 105
- Suspicion of money laundering or criminal activity
- Bulk cash smuggling
Brownsville: A Hotspot for Currency Seizures
Brownsville is one of the busiest land border crossings between the U.S. and Mexico. Its high traffic volume makes it a frequent site for outbound inspections, where CBP officers look for unreported cash. Many seizures occur during routine vehicle inspections or secondary screenings, just like in the case above.
What Happens After a Seizure?
Once your cash is seized, CBP will issue a Notice of Seizure. You’ll have several options:
- File a Petition: Ask CBP to return the money based on legal arguments and supporting evidence.
- File a Claim: Request a court hearing to challenge the seizure.
- Offer in Compromise: Settle the matter for less than the full amount.
- Do Nothing: CBP will keep the money permanently.
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.
How We Can Help
At Great Lakes Customs Law, we specialize in helping clients recover seized currency. We’ve handled hundreds of cases involving CBP cash seizures across the country—including Texas border crossings like Laredo and now Brownsville.
Our services include:
- Preparing and filing petitions
- Negotiating with CBP
- Representing you in federal court if necessary
You typically have 30 days from the date of the seizure notice to respond. Missing this deadline can result in permanent forfeiture of your money.
⌛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
- 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.
🕛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.