What Happens to Your Money or Car If It Is Seized at the Texas-Mexico Border?

 Posted on November 15, 2025 in Uncategorized

Crossing the Texas-Mexico border with a large amount of cash or valuable property can lead to serious problems, even if you have done nothing wrong. Every day, Customs and Border Protection (CBP), the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), and local police seize money, vehicles, and assets at border crossings such as El Paso, Laredo, and Brownsville. Many travelers are shocked to learn that their property can be taken even when no criminal charges are filed. If this happens to you, an experienced El Paso, TX asset forfeiture lawyer can help you fight the seizure and work to recover what is yours.

Why Does Border Patrol Take Money or Cars at the Border?

Law enforcement at the border has broad authority to seize assets they believe are tied to illegal activity. This process, known as civil asset forfeiture, allows the government to confiscate property that is "suspected" of being connected to crimes like smuggling, drug trafficking, or money laundering.

Under 18 U.S.C. § 981, federal agents may seize assets linked to financial or criminal offenses. Additionally, 19 U.S.C. § 1607 gives agencies the power to issue seizure notices and begin forfeiture proceedings. Although these laws are meant to target criminal enterprises, innocent travelers sometimes get caught in the process.

For instance, if you carry a large amount of cash without proper documentation, border agents might assume it comes from illegal activity and take it. Vehicles may also be seized if agents believe they were used for transporting goods, money, or people illegally.

How Much Cash Can You Legally Carry Across the Border?

According to 31 U.S.C. § 5316, anyone transporting over $10,000 in currency or monetary instruments must report it to Customs and Border Protection. Failing to report or giving incomplete information can result in your money being seized immediately. Officers will likely ask where the cash came from and what it will be used for. If you cannot provide consistent answers or documentation, your funds may be held while an investigation takes place. Keeping receipts, bank withdrawal slips, or proof of business transactions can help show that your money is legitimate.

Can You Get Your Money or Car Back After a Border Seizure?

After a seizure, you will receive a Notice of Seizure and Information to Claimants. This document explains the reason why the property was seized and how to challenge it. You typically have 30 days from the notice date to respond. You may have one of several options:

• File a claim for court action: You can challenge the government’s right to keep your property and take the case to federal court.

• File a petition for remission or mitigation: This is a request asking the agency to return your property, often by proving that you were not involved in any illegal activity.

• Negotiate with the agency: A lawyer can sometimes help you reach a settlement or agreement to recover part or all of your property.

Acting quickly is essential. Missing deadlines or failing to follow the correct procedures can result in permanent loss of your assets.

Schedule a Free Consultation With an El Paso County, TX Asset Forfeiture Attorney Today

If your money or vehicle was seized at the Texas-Mexico border, you need to know your rights. At Spencer & Associates, we can help you understand your options, file the right paperwork, and fight to get your property returned. Attorney Arnold Spencer has more than 30 years of legal experience and is known for his skill as a strong trial lawyer and litigator. He brings extensive courtroom knowledge and strategic insight to every case.

Contact our office today at 469-283-6126 to schedule a free consultation with an El Paso, TX asset forfeiture lawyer.