Flying With Cash In Texas Can Be Tricky

Flying with cash isn't illegal in Texas but there's a possibility it could be taken and getting it back could cost you as much as you lost if not more.

Traveling with large sums of cash in Texas ... or, anywhere within the USA ... is not illegal and TSA doesn't really care about it. They're looking for bombs and drugs and stuff. They may rat you out to the cops though and they may snatch your money.

Whether you're boarding in Texas or any other state, you can carry all the cash you want and you are not required to say a thing about it. If you're traveling into or out of the USA though, you have to declare any amount of cash over $10,000.

If you're keeping it local, no worries. Beware though, if the TSA screener refers you to the cops, they could seize it and getting it back could cost you thousands. Maybe as much, if not more, than they seized.

How Can Police Seize Your Money?

It's called Civil Asset Forfeiture and it allows cops to seize anything ... cash, vehicles, real estate, pretty much anything else of value ... whether you're charged with a crime or not. Again, at THEIR discretion. However you got the money, they can choose not to believe you.

How Can I Avoid This?

The problem is that the decision to seize is up to the cop(s) on the scene. They could really believe they're on to something or they could just feel like being difficult. Your best bet is to travel with cashiers checks or use wire transfers.

READ MORE: Weird Border Seizure In Texas

If you can't, then be upfront, honest and able to explain the $$. Have a copy of your withdrawal slip or some sort of a receipt to establish where it came from. Know your itinerary and other basic info, showing any uncertainty at all can make them suspicious. You don't want that.

If Seized, How Can I Get My Money Back?

You can file a claim but it's complicated. Even if it's totally legit money, once taken, getting it back can be a costly nightmare. The process can take years and you'll need to hire an attorney to fight for you. Getting $8K back could cost you twice that - the system is whack.