As a Global Entry member, you enjoy the benefit of expedited customs clearance, allowing you to breeze through U.S. borders. However, this privilege comes with the responsibility of adhering to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) regulations—particularly those involving currency reporting. Failing to comply with these rules can result in severe penalties, including the revocation of your Global Entry status. At National Security Law Firm (NSLF), we’ve helped many clients who have faced complications due to currency reporting issues. Here’s a detailed guide on common reporting pitfalls and how to avoid them to stay compliant.

Common Currency Reporting Issues

Travelers often misunderstand or overlook the complexities of currency reporting, which can result in unintentional violations. Let’s examine some of the most frequent mistakes that could jeopardize your Global Entry membership.

1. Underestimating the $10,000 Threshold

  • Issue: Many travelers mistakenly believe that only amounts exceeding $10,000 per person must be reported. However, this threshold applies to the total combined currency and monetary instruments carried by all members of a family or group traveling together.
  • Example: If a family of four carries $3,000 each, totaling $12,000, they are required to report it, even though no single person is carrying more than $10,000.
  • Why it Matters: CBP doesn’t distinguish between individuals when assessing the threshold. If you’re traveling with family members, the combined amount must be considered to avoid violations.

2. Failure to Report Non-Cash Instruments

  • Issue: Travelers often forget that the $10,000 threshold applies to more than just cash. It also includes traveler’s checks, money orders, negotiable instruments, and even certain checks.
  • Example: Carrying $8,000 in cash and $3,000 in traveler’s checks means you are holding a total of $11,000 and are required to report it.
  • Why it Matters: It’s easy to focus solely on physical cash, but failing to report non-cash monetary instruments can still lead to penalties.

3. Incorrect or Incomplete Reporting

  • Issue: Providing inaccurate information or failing to complete all sections of FinCEN Form 105 can cause compliance issues, leading to fines or worse.
  • Example: Misreporting amounts or neglecting to include all types of currency instruments on the form.
  • Why it Matters: Failing to complete the form accurately or leaving out essential information can result in fines, delays, and a potential investigation into your Global Entry eligibility.

4. Misunderstanding the Definition of “Carrying”

  • Issue: Some travelers are unaware that the $10,000 reporting limit includes funds held or carried for them by another person. This includes money sent ahead or held by a friend or family member.
  • Example: If a friend carries $5,000 on your behalf while you carry $6,000, the total amount is $11,000 and must be reported.
  • Why it Matters: Simply because the money is split between travelers does not exempt you from reporting. CBP views it as a collective sum, so you must ensure you declare it properly.

How to Stay Compliant

To protect your Global Entry membership and avoid penalties, it’s essential to follow these key guidelines when traveling with large sums of money or monetary instruments.

1. Always Declare Total Amounts

  • Tip: When traveling with family or a group, be sure to add up all currency and monetary instruments to determine whether the total exceeds the $10,000 threshold. It’s always better to over-report than to under-report.
  • How: Use FinCEN Form 105 to declare the total amount if it exceeds $10,000. Be honest and thorough in your reporting to avoid compliance issues.

2. Include All Types of Monetary Instruments

  • Tip: Remember that the $10,000 threshold includes all forms of currency—not just cash. This includes traveler’s checks, money orders, negotiable instruments, and certain personal checks.
  • How: Make sure to list each type of monetary instrument and its amount separately on FinCEN Form 105 to avoid confusion or inaccuracies.

3. Complete the Form Accurately

  • Tip: Accuracy is critical. Ensure all required fields on FinCEN Form 105 are completed without errors. Failing to do so can result in fines or delays in clearing customs.
  • How: Carefully review the form instructions and double-check all the information before submitting. If you’re uncertain, consider consulting a legal professional to ensure compliance.

4. Understand the “Carrying” Rule

  • Tip: Be aware that any funds held or carried on your behalf by another person count towards your total. This applies even if someone else is holding the money for you or it was sent ahead of your arrival.
  • How: Communicate with everyone traveling with you to ensure you accurately calculate and report the total amount of money across the group.

Consequences of Non-Compliance

Failing to adhere to currency reporting requirements can result in serious consequences, including:

  • Fines and Penalties: The penalties for failing to report currency or monetary instruments properly can range from several hundred dollars to significant fines depending on the severity of the violation.
  • Confiscation of Funds: In some cases, CBP may seize the currency that was not properly reported.
  • Global Entry Revocation: Non-compliance with customs regulations, including currency reporting, can result in the revocation of your Global Entry membership, leading to a loss of expedited clearance privileges.

At National Security Law Firm, we’ve helped clients who faced Global Entry revocation due to reporting violations. We’re here to ensure that you understand the rules and protect your travel status.

Conclusion: Stay Compliant and Protect Your Global Entry Status

Staying compliant with currency reporting requirements is crucial for maintaining your Global Entry membership and avoiding severe penalties. By understanding the $10,000 threshold, including all types of monetary instruments, completing forms accurately, and being aware of how the “carrying” rule applies to your group, you can enjoy the benefits of Global Entry without any complications.

If you’re facing issues related to currency reporting violations or have had your Global Entry status revoked, National Security Law Firm is here to help. Our experienced legal team can guide you through the complexities of CBP regulations and assist you in appealing Global Entry denials or revocations.

Our Guaranteed Global Entry Appeal Service – Get Approved or Your Money Back!

At the National Security Law Firm, we understand how frustrating having your Global Entry denied or revoked can be. That’s why we offer our Guaranteed Global Entry Appeal Service—designed to relieve the stress, handle every step of the appeal, and get you approved quickly. When you choose us, you’re putting your case in the hands of seasoned experts with a track record of success in Global Entry appeals.

Here’s what our comprehensive service includes:

  • Guaranteed Approval or Your Money Back:
    We are confident in our ability to secure your Global Entry on appeal—we guarantee it. If we fail, we’ll refund your money in full—no questions asked. Your success is our priority.
  • Quick and Easy Onboarding:
    We respect your time. Our fast and straightforward electronic onboarding process takes less than 15 minutes. Once you’re on board, our experienced Global Entry lawyers handle everything, freeing you to focus on what matters most.
  • Complete Handling of Court Records:
    Don’t worry about gathering court documents—we’ve got you covered. Our team will track down and obtain any necessary court records for your appeal, ensuring everything is in order and saving you the hassle.
  • Expert Analysis of Your Denial:
    Unsure why your Global Entry was denied? Our team, with its deep experience in reviewing Security Threat Assessments (STAs) from years working for the government, will thoroughly analyze your case. 
  • Guidance Through the Interview and Renewal Process:
    Once your appeal is granted, we’ll continue to guide you through the Global Entry interview and renewal process, ensuring you’re fully prepared and know what to expect.
  • Insider Tips for Fast Interview Scheduling:
    We know how to get your Global Entry interview scheduled quickly and at a convenient location. Our insider knowledge will help you navigate the process smoothly and without delay.
  • All of this is available for a flat, all-inclusive fee of $2,995.
    No hidden charges, no surprises—just straightforward, experienced service from trusted Global Entry appeal lawyers.

With our Guaranteed Global Entry Appeal Service, you’re backed by a team of dedicated attorneys who know the process inside and out. Contact us today to get started!

*The use of the word “guaranteed” in attorney advertisements refers explicitly to a refund policy and does not imply a guarantee of any particular outcome in your legal case. Legal cases are inherently unpredictable, and the result of any legal matter cannot be assured. The National Security Law Firm guarantees that you will receive a full refund of our legal fee if you do not obtain Global Entry on appeal. This guarantee applies solely to the refund and not to the success or outcome of your case.

Get Professional Help and Stay Informed: Join Our Free “Ask a Global Entry Lawyer” Facebook Group!

Have you recently faced a denial or revocation of your Global Entry membership? The appeals process can be complex and overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone. We invite you to join our “Ask a Global Entry Lawyer (Global Entry Q&A)” Facebook Group. In this dedicated space, you can get answers directly from experienced Global Entry lawyers and connect with others facing similar issues.

Why Join Our Facebook Group?

  • Experienced Legal Advice for Free: Our skilled Global Entry lawyers are here to provide you with valuable insights, answer your questions, and guide you through the appeal process.
  • Community Support: Connect with others who have gone through the same process. Share your experiences, learn from others’ stories, and get support from a community that understands your situation.
  • Stay Up-to-Date: Get the latest updates on Global Entry policies, appeal procedures, and best practices to increase your chances of success.
  • Easy Access: Simply join the group, post your questions, and get reliable advice from NSLF’s Global Entry lawyers. 

Don’t face your Global Entry appeal alone. Join our “Free Global Entry Q&A (Ask a Global Entry Lawyer)” Facebook Group now and get the professional guidance you need to navigate the process confidently.

Explore Our Comprehensive Global Entry Resources

At the National Security Law Firm, we believe in empowering our clients with the knowledge and guidance they need to navigate the complex world of Global Entry. Whether you’ve faced a denial, are confused about your eligibility, or want to know how to maximize your case, we’ve got you covered. Our Global Entry practice area page links to dozens of detailed articles and blogs designed to answer your questions and help you feel confident in every step of the process.

What You’ll Find in Our Resource Library:

  • Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Not sure where to start? Our FAQs cover everything from basic eligibility to what happens during the Global Entry interview. We break down common concerns and provide straightforward answers.
  • Maximizing Your Global Entry Case: Learn expert strategies to strengthen your appeal, avoid common mistakes, and increase your chances of success. Our guides walk you through how to prepare your documentation, handle criminal records, and more.
  • Understanding Your Denial: If your Global Entry was denied or revoked and you’re unsure why, we offer detailed resources to help you uncover the reasons and plan your next steps. Our blogs cover everything from criminal records to unexplained denials.

Our extensive collection of articles also covers specific issues like FOIA requests, traffic violations, customs violations, and Global Entry appeals. For a complete list of topics and resources, visit our Global Entry Appeals page and take advantage of the insights shared by our trusted team of Global Entry lawyers. 

Our blog posts provide valuable insights and practical advice to help you confidently navigate your Global Entry appeal. For personalized answers and additional guidance, don’t forget to join our “Free Global Entry Q&A (Ask a Global Entry Lawyer)” Facebook Group and connect with our experienced Global Entry lawyers today!

Why Trust the National Security Law Firm?

1. The Insider Advantage

The National Security Law Firm (NSLF) is led by Brett O’Brien, a former Intelligence Law attorney with the Army’s counterintelligence agency. NSLF’s Global Entry team is trusted by countless clients to secure Global Entry privileges for those who have been denied or had their membership revoked. Brett O’Brien developed NSLF’s Global Entry program based on his extensive experience conducting Security Threat Assessments (STAs) for the Army. Global Entry investigations are a type of Security Threat Assessment. Brett’s deep involvement in overseeing these investigations gives NSLF a unique and trusted insider advantage in handling Global Entry appeals.

Don’t make the mistake of trusting civilian lawyers who lack military or intelligence law expertise. They often miss the critical firsthand experience needed to conduct and review STAs for the government—knowledge that is essential for effectively representing you in your appeal or revocation. When you choose NSLF, you are placing your trust in a team with insider knowledge, a proven track record, and an unwavering commitment to securing the best possible outcome for you.

2. Guaranteed Results or Your Money Back

When you hire the National Security Law Firm for your Global Entry appeal or revocation, you can trust that you’re in the hands of experienced, results-driven attorneys. We are so confident in our ability to secure your Global Entry that we offer a guarantee: if we do not succeed in obtaining your Global Entry on appeal, we will refund your money in full. This guarantee reflects the trust we place in our team and our commitment to your success.

3. Trusted by Top Business Leaders

The National Security Law Firm is the nation’s original Global Entry law firm, trusted by top business leaders, CEOs, and executives from Fortune 500 companies and beyond. Our trusted reputation for success in Global Entry appeals makes us the go-to firm for those who cannot afford delays or mistakes.

By partnering with NSLF, you can trust us to handle the complex legal work involved in your Global Entry appeal, allowing you to focus on your business with confidence.

4. Glowing Reviews and Proven Success

Our clients consistently trust us to deliver results, and our track record speaks for itself. NSLF’s Global Entry lawyers have helped numerous clients secure their Global Entry status, and our glowing Google reviews are a testament to the success we’ve achieved. Clients across the nation praise our professionalism, dedication, and unmatched expertise, all of which contribute to our trusted reputation as one of the top Global Entry law firms.

5. The Five Pillars of Success


At NSLF, trust is at the core of everything we do. Our practice is built on our “Five Core Pillars of Success,” which reflect our military-inspired strategy, dedication, and precision in delivering the highest level of legal service. From how we hire and train our attorneys to how we handle every case, these principles are what our clients trust to set us apart from the competition. Visit our About Us page to learn more about the Five Pillars that define our trusted approach and commitment to our clients.

Enlist The National Security Law Firm: Secure Your Global Entry Status Today

When you choose The National Security Law Firm, you’re trusting a team that approaches every Global Entry appeal with the precision, strategy, and determination of an elite military unit. Our insider knowledge and relentless pursuit of success set us apart in helping clients regain their Global Entry privileges. We are committed to securing the best possible outcome for your case.

Take Action Now: Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and take the first critical step toward reclaiming your trusted traveler status. With our proven experience and commitment, we’ll guide you through every phase of the process.

Global Entry Appeals. Done Right.

Don’t wait—begin your Global Entry appeal today. Our onboarding process is fast and easy, and consultations are always free. Schedule your free consultation now and let our trusted team stand by your side in this important journey.

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