Is It Illegal to Travel With Large Amounts of Cash?

 Posted on February 25, 2026 in Airport Asset Forfeiture

It’s not illegal to travel with large amounts of cash in the United States. No law limits how much money you can carry on a domestic flight or in your vehicle. However, law enforcement officers may still seize cash if they believe it is connected to illegal activity. This creates real risks for travelers, especially at busy transportation hubs like George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH).

As of 2026, civil asset forfeiture laws still allow agencies to take money based on suspicion, even if no criminal charges are filed. Our IAH airport cash seizure lawyer can help you understand your rights and fight to recover your seized funds.

Can You Legally Carry as Much Cash as You Want While Traveling in Texas?

Carrying cash is legal under both Texas and federal law. People often travel with cash for many legitimate reasons, such as business transactions, travel expenses, or personal purchases.

There is no legal limit on the amount of cash you can carry within the United States. However, carrying large sums may attract attention from law enforcement, especially at airports or during traffic stops.

When Can Law Enforcement Seize Cash in Texas?

Law enforcement can seize cash if they believe it is connected to certain crimes. This process is called civil asset forfeiture. Under Chapter 59 of the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure, officers may seize property they believe is contraband, meaning property linked to criminal conduct.

Federal law also allows seizures under 18 U.S.C. § 981, which permits the government to take property believed to be connected to illegal activity.

Officers may look at several factors when deciding whether to seize cash, including:

• Carrying unusually large amounts of currency
• Cash stored in bundles, envelopes, or hidden compartments
• Conflicting answers about where the money came from
• Alerts from trained detection dogs

Even if the money was legally earned, officers may still seize it based on suspicion alone.

Are You Required To Report Cash When Traveling?

Reporting requirements depend on whether you are traveling within the country or leaving the United States.

Domestic travel does not require you to report or declare cash. You can legally fly from Houston to another U.S. city without notifying authorities about the amount you carry.

International travel has different rules. Under 31 U.S.C. § 5316, travelers must report cash or monetary instruments exceeding $10,000 when entering or leaving the United States. Failure to report can lead to seizure and possible penalties.

These reporting requirements apply at airports like IAH, where federal agents monitor international travelers.

Why Does Cash Get Seized at Airports Like IAH?

Airports are common locations for cash seizures because law enforcement agencies actively monitor travelers. Officers may question individuals, inspect luggage, or request consent to search belongings.

If officers believe the cash is connected to illegal activity, they may seize it immediately. In civil forfeiture cases, the government files a legal action against the property itself, rather than charging the person with a crime.

This process can be confusing. If the government proves the property is subject to forfeiture, the burden then falls on the owner to give evidence that the money was being used legally.

What Should You Do if Your Cash Is Seized at an Airport?

If law enforcement seizes your money, it is important to act quickly. Forfeiture cases have strict deadlines, and failing to respond can result in permanent loss.

You should take the following steps:

• Request a receipt showing the amount seized.
• Do not answer detailed questions without legal guidance.
• Collect records showing the lawful source of the funds.
• Contact a lawyer experienced in forfeiture cases.

Documents such as bank statements, business records, or payment receipts can help support your claim.

Schedule a Free Consultation With Our George Bush Airport Cash Seizure Attorney

Cash seizures can disrupt your finances and create uncertainty, even when your money was earned legally. Our firm helps individuals challenge forfeiture actions and pursue the return of seized funds. With more than 30 years of legal experience, Attorney Spencer has handled complex forfeiture cases and built a reputation as a strong trial lawyer and litigator. His courtroom experience allows him to effectively challenge government claims and protect clients’ property.

If your cash was seized at George Bush Intercontinental Airport or elsewhere, contact an IAH cash seizure lawyer at Spencer & Associates by calling 469-283-6126. Schedule a free consultation and find out how we can help you protect your rights.