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As a Global Entry member, you enjoy the benefits of expedited entry into the United States, but this privilege comes with the responsibility of complying with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) regulations. One area that often causes confusion for families traveling together is the requirement to report currency and monetary instruments when crossing U.S. borders. Failure to comply can result in penalties, including the revocation of Global Entry status. In this post, we’ll break down the currency reporting requirements that apply specifically to families and how to stay compliant.

Understanding Currency Reporting Requirements

When traveling into or out of the United States, there are strict reporting obligations if you’re carrying currency or monetary instruments. It’s important to know what qualifies as “currency” and when you’re required to report it.

What Needs to Be Reported?

  • Currency: This includes both U.S. and foreign coins and paper money.
  • Monetary Instruments: Traveler’s checks, money orders, negotiable instruments (like checks or promissory notes), and securities also fall under this category.

Threshold Amount

  • If you are traveling with more than $10,000 in currency or monetary instruments, you are required to report it. This threshold applies not just to individual travelers but also to families traveling together.

Reporting Process

  • FinCEN Form 105: This form must be completed and submitted to CBP officers if the total amount exceeds $10,000. Failing to report the correct amount can lead to confiscation of the funds and further penalties.

How Currency Reporting Applies to Families

Families traveling together need to be especially mindful of how currency reporting rules apply. CBP considers the total amount carried by all family members when assessing whether the $10,000 threshold is exceeded.

Aggregate Amounts

  • The $10,000 limit applies to the combined total of all currency and monetary instruments carried by a family. For example, if a family of four is traveling together and each person carries $3,000, the family must report the total $12,000 since it exceeds the $10,000 threshold.

Single Declaration

  • A family only needs to submit one FinCEN Form 105 if they are traveling together. However, if different family members are traveling separately, each must file their own declaration if the amount they’re carrying individually exceeds $10,000.

Special Considerations for Families

Understanding how the currency reporting rules apply to your specific family situation is crucial for avoiding penalties.

Minors

  • Currency or monetary instruments carried by minors count toward the total amount for the family. Parents or guardians are responsible for ensuring that the entire family’s funds are correctly reported.

Separate Travel

  • If family members are traveling separately, the rules differ. For example, if each member of the family carries $6,000 separately, no individual needs to report. However, if they were traveling together, the $12,000 total would need to be declared.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

1. Underestimating the Total Amount

  • Many travelers mistakenly think the $10,000 threshold applies per person, but it applies to the combined total of all currency carried by the family. Be sure to calculate the total amount across the entire family, including funds carried by children.

2. Forgetting Non-Cash Instruments

  • The $10,000 threshold includes more than just physical cash. Be sure to include traveler’s checks, money orders, and other negotiable instruments in your total.

3. Misunderstanding “Carrying”

  • The rule also applies to funds held for or carried by another person. For example, if a family member holds money on behalf of someone else, this also counts toward the total amount.

How to Stay Compliant

To avoid penalties and potential Global Entry revocation, follow these key guidelines:

1. Always Declare the Full Amount

  • It’s always better to over-report than to under-report. If you’re traveling with family, ensure you declare the combined total of currency and monetary instruments accurately.

2. Include All Forms of Currency and Monetary Instruments

  • Remember that monetary instruments like money orders, traveler’s checks, and negotiable instruments must be included in your declaration, not just cash.

3. Complete FinCEN Form 105 Thoroughly

  • Make sure that all the required fields are filled out accurately on FinCEN Form 105. If you’re unsure, it’s worth consulting a professional for advice to avoid costly mistakes.

4. Communicate with Family Members

  • Ensure that everyone traveling with you understands their responsibility when it comes to currency reporting. Double-check to ensure you’ve accounted for all money carried by every member of your group.

Consequences of Non-Compliance

If you fail to accurately report the total amount of currency and monetary instruments your family is carrying, the consequences can be severe:

  • Fines and Penalties: CBP can impose fines and seize funds for failing to report currency properly.
  • Global Entry Revocation: Non-compliance with reporting regulations can result in the revocation of your Global Entry membership, meaning you lose your expedited entry privileges.

Conclusion: Protect Your Global Entry Privileges by Staying Compliant

For families who are Global Entry members, understanding and adhering to currency reporting requirements is critical to avoiding penalties and protecting your Global Entry status. By ensuring that all family members’ currency is reported accurately, including non-cash instruments, and by completing FinCEN Form 105 thoroughly, you can travel with peace of mind.

At National Security Law Firm, we have extensive experience assisting families with Global Entry-related legal issues. If you or your family has faced currency reporting complications or has had your Global Entry revoked, our team of experts can help guide you through the process and restore your status.


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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