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Misconceptions

The CBP 6059B form, also known as the Customs Declaration form, is an important document for travelers entering the United States. However, several misconceptions surround this form. Here’s a breakdown of some common misunderstandings:

  • It is only for international travelers. Many people believe that only those coming from abroad need to fill out the CBP 6059B form. In reality, anyone entering the U.S. from another country, regardless of the mode of transportation, must complete it.
  • Only U.S. citizens need to fill it out. This is not true. Foreign nationals, as well as U.S. citizens, are required to declare any goods they are bringing into the country using this form.
  • It is only about declaring money. While travelers must declare amounts over $10,000, the form also requires information about other items, such as gifts, personal items, and any agricultural products.
  • Filling it out is optional. Some believe that completing the CBP 6059B form is merely a suggestion. However, it is a mandatory requirement for customs clearance upon entry into the U.S.
  • It can be filled out after arriving in the U.S. This misconception can lead to delays. Travelers should complete the form before arriving or while in transit to ensure a smooth entry process.
  • There is no penalty for not declaring items. Failing to declare items can lead to serious consequences, including fines or confiscation of goods. Honesty is crucial when filling out the form.
  • All items must be declared regardless of value. While most items should be declared, there are exemptions for personal items and gifts below a certain value. However, it’s always safer to declare than to risk penalties.
  • Customs agents do not check the form. This is a common belief, but customs agents do review the information provided. They may ask questions or request additional documentation based on the declarations made.

Understanding these misconceptions can help travelers navigate the customs process more effectively. Properly completing the CBP 6059B form ensures compliance with U.S. regulations and can make the entry experience smoother.

Steps to Writing CBP 6059B

The CBP 6059B form is essential for travelers entering the United States. Completing this form accurately ensures a smooth entry process. Follow the steps below to fill out the form correctly.

  1. Obtain a copy of the CBP 6059B form. This can be done at the port of entry or online.
  2. Begin by entering your name in the designated field. Include your first name, middle name (if applicable), and last name.
  3. Provide your date of birth. Use the format MM/DD/YYYY.
  4. Fill in your gender by checking the appropriate box.
  5. Enter your citizenship or nationality. Specify the country you are a citizen of.
  6. Complete the passport information section. Include your passport number, country of issuance, and expiration date.
  7. Indicate your flight information. Write down the airline name and flight number.
  8. Provide your address in the United States. This should be where you will be staying.
  9. Answer the customs declaration questions truthfully. This includes questions about items you are bringing into the country.
  10. Sign and date the form at the bottom. Your signature confirms that the information provided is accurate.

After completing the CBP 6059B form, you will present it to a Customs and Border Protection officer upon arrival in the United States. Ensure that you keep a copy for your records if needed.

Common mistakes

Completing the CBP 6059B form can seem straightforward, but many individuals make common mistakes that can lead to delays or complications. One frequent error is providing inaccurate personal information. Ensure that names, addresses, and dates of birth match exactly with official documents. Any discrepancies may result in further scrutiny from customs officials.

Another mistake is failing to declare all items being brought into the country. Omitting items, even unintentionally, can lead to significant penalties. It is crucial to list everything, including gifts, personal items, and any purchases made abroad. Transparency is key to a smooth entry process.

Many people overlook the importance of understanding the customs regulations. Each country has specific rules regarding what can and cannot be brought in. Familiarize yourself with these guidelines before filling out the form. Ignorance of the law is not an excuse, and being uninformed can cause unnecessary complications.

Incorrectly marking the "Yes" or "No" boxes is another common error. This section requires careful attention, as it determines whether you need to provide additional information. Double-check your answers to avoid confusion or misinterpretation by customs officials.

Additionally, some individuals neglect to sign and date the form. A signature is not just a formality; it indicates that you understand and accept the responsibilities associated with your declarations. Omitting this step can lead to the form being considered incomplete.

Another mistake involves waiting until the last minute to fill out the form. Rushing can lead to careless errors. Take the time to carefully review each section of the form. A well-prepared form can save you time and hassle at the border.

Finally, failing to keep a copy of the completed form is a mistake that can have repercussions. Retaining a copy allows you to reference your declarations if needed in the future. This can be especially useful if questions arise regarding your entry into the country.

Form Data

Fact Name Description
Purpose The CBP 6059B form is used by U.S. Customs and Border Protection to collect information from travelers entering the United States.
Who Must Fill It Out All travelers, including U.S. citizens and foreign visitors, must complete the form when arriving in the U.S.
Information Required The form requires details such as the traveler's name, passport information, and the purpose of the visit.
Submission Process Travelers typically submit the CBP 6059B form upon arrival at a U.S. port of entry, either on paper or electronically.
Legal Basis This form is governed by U.S. federal law, specifically the Immigration and Nationality Act.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. What is the CBP 6059B form?

    The CBP 6059B form is a customs declaration form used by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). Travelers entering the United States must complete this form to declare items they are bringing into the country. This helps ensure compliance with U.S. laws regarding imports and exports.

  2. Who needs to fill out the CBP 6059B form?

    Any traveler entering the United States, including U.S. citizens, permanent residents, and foreign visitors, must fill out the CBP 6059B form if they are carrying goods worth more than $800 or if they have certain restricted items. It is essential to be honest and thorough when completing this form to avoid potential penalties.

  3. How do I obtain the CBP 6059B form?

    You can obtain the CBP 6059B form in several ways:

    • At the airport or border crossing: Forms are usually available at customs checkpoints.
    • Online: You can download and print the form from the CBP website.
    • Through your airline: Many airlines provide the form during the flight for international travelers.
  4. What information do I need to provide on the CBP 6059B form?

    The form requires several pieces of information, including:

    • Your personal details, such as name and address.
    • Details about your trip, including the purpose of your visit.
    • A list of items you are bringing into the U.S., especially those that may be subject to duties or restrictions.
  5. What happens if I don’t fill out the CBP 6059B form?

    Failing to complete the CBP 6059B form can lead to serious consequences. You may face fines or penalties, and your goods could be confiscated. Additionally, not declaring items can result in delays during the customs process, which can be inconvenient and stressful.

  6. Can I amend my CBP 6059B form after submission?

    Once you submit the CBP 6059B form to customs, you generally cannot amend it. However, if you realize you made a mistake or forgot to declare something, it’s best to inform a customs officer immediately upon arrival. They can guide you on how to proceed and help rectify the situation.

  7. Where do I submit the CBP 6059B form?

    You will submit the CBP 6059B form at the customs checkpoint when you arrive in the United States. Customs officers will review your declaration and may ask additional questions about the items you are bringing into the country.

Documents used along the form

The CBP 6059B form is an important document for travelers entering the United States. It is used to declare items and ensure compliance with customs regulations. However, there are several other forms and documents that may accompany it during the customs process. Below is a list of some commonly used documents that travelers might need.

  • Passport: A passport serves as an official identification document. It proves your identity and citizenship when traveling internationally.
  • CBP Declaration Form 6059: This is a general declaration form that travelers fill out to report items being brought into the U.S. It provides customs officials with information about goods and currency.
  • Texas Trailer Bill of Sale Form: For those finalizing a trailer purchase, the official trailer bill of sale documentation provides essential proof of ownership transfer.
  • Form I-94: This form records the arrival and departure of non-U.S. citizens. It is essential for tracking the length of stay in the country.
  • Customs Invoice: This document details the contents and value of goods being imported. It helps customs officials assess duties and taxes.
  • Travel Itinerary: A travel itinerary outlines your travel plans, including flight details and accommodation. It can be useful for customs officers to understand your travel purpose.

Having these documents ready can streamline the customs process and help ensure a smooth entry into the United States. Always check specific requirements based on your travel circumstances to avoid any surprises at the border.

Document Sample

This Space For Official Use Only

Customs Declaration

FORM APPROVED

OMB NO.1651-0009

19 CFR 122.27, 148.12, 148.13, 148.110, 148.111, 19 USC 1498; 31 CFR 5316

Each arriving traveler or responsible family member must provide the following information (only ONE written declaration per family is required). The term "family" is defined as "members of a family residing in the same household who are related by blood, marriage, domestic relationship, or adoption."

1Family Name

 

First (Given)

 

 

 

 

 

Middle

 

 

 

 

 

Birth date

Month

 

 

 

Day

 

 

 

 

Year

 

 

 

2

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3Number of Family members traveling with you

4(a) U.S. Street Address (hotel name/destination)

(b) City (c) State

5Passport issued by (country)

6Passport number

7Country of Residence

8 Countries visited on this

trip prior to U.S. arrival

9

Airline/Flight No. or Vessel Name

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The primary purpose of this trip is business:

 

 

 

 

 

10

Yes

 

No

 

 

11I am (We are) bringing

(a)fruits, vegetables, plants, seeds, food, insects: Yes No

(b) meats, animals, animal/wildlife products:

Yes

 

No

 

(c) disease agents, cell cultures, snails:

Yes

 

No

 

 

 

(d) soil or have been on a farm/ranch/pasture:

Yes

 

No

 

 

 

12I have (We have) been in close proximity of livestock: Yes No (such as touching or handling)

13I am (We are) carrying currency or monetary instruments

 

over $10,000 U.S. or foreign equivalent:

Yes

 

No

 

 

(see definition of monetary instruments on reverse)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

14

I have (We have) commercial merchandise:

Yes

 

No

 

 

 

 

(articles for sale, samples used for soliciting orders,

 

 

 

 

 

or goods that are not considered personal effects)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

RESIDENTS—the total value of all goods, including commercial

15

 

merchandise I/we have purchased or acquired abroad, (including

 

gifts for someone else but not items mailed to

$

 

 

 

 

the U.S.) and am/are bringing to the U.S. is:

 

 

 

 

 

VISITORS—the total value of all articles that

$

 

 

 

 

will remain in the U.S., including commercial

 

 

 

 

 

merchandise is:

 

 

Read the instructions on the back of this form. Space is provided to list all the items you must declare.

I HAVE READ THE IMPORTANT INFORMATION ON THE REVERSE SIDE OF THIS FORM AND HAVE MADE A TRUTHFUL DECLARATION.

X

Signature

Date (month/day/year)

U.S. Customs and Border Protection Welcomes You to the United States

U.S. Customs and Border Protection is responsible for protecting the United States against the illegal importation of prohibited items. CBP officers have the authority to question you and to examine you and your personal property. If you are one of the travelers selected for an examination, you will be treated in a courteous, professional, and dignified manner. CBP Supervisors and Passenger Service Representatives are available to answer your questions. Comment cards are available to compliment or provide feedback.

Important Information

U.S. Residents—Declare all articles that you have acquired abroad and are bringing into the United States.

Visitors (Non-Residents)—Declare the value of all articles that will remain in the United States.

Declare all articles on this declaration form and show the value in U.S. dollars. For gifts, please indicate the retail value.

Duty—CBP officers will determine duty. U.S. residents are normally entitled to a duty-free exemption of $800 on items accompanying them. Visitors (non-residents) are normally entitled to an exemption of $100. Duty will be assessed at the current rate on the first $1,000 above the exemption.

Agricultural and Wildlife Products—To prevent the entry of dangerous agricultural pests and prohibited wildlife, the following are restricted: Fruits, vegetables, plants, plant products, soil, meat, meat products, birds, snails, and other live animals or animal products. Failure to declare such items to a Customs and Border Protection Officer/ Customs and Border Protection Agriculture Specialist/Fish and Wildlife Inspector can result in penalties and the items may be subject to seizure.

Controlled substances, obscene articles, and toxic substances are generally prohibited entry. The importation of merchandise into the U.S. that infringes intellectual property rights may subject travelers to civil or criminal penalties and may pose serious risk to safety or health.

The transportation of currency or monetary instruments, regardless of the amount, is legal. However, if you bring into or take out of the United States more than $10,000 (U.S. or foreign equivalent, or a combination of both), you are required by law to file a report on FinCEN 105 (formerly Customs Form 4790) with U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Monetary instruments include coin, currency, travelers checks and bearer instruments such as personal or cashiers checks and stocks and bonds. If you have someone else carry the currency or monetary instrument for you, you must also file a report on FinCEN 105. Failure to file the required report or failure to report the total amount that you are carrying may lead to the seizure of all the currency or monetary instruments, and may subject you to civil penalties and/or criminal prosecution. SIGN ON THE OPPOSITE SIDE OF THIS FORM AFTER YOU HAVE READ THE IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOVE AND MADE A TRUTHFUL DECLARATION.

Description of Articles

 

 

CBP

(List may continue on another CBP Form 6059B)

 

Value

Use Only

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total

PAPERWORK REDUCTION ACT STATEMENT: An agency may not conduct or sponsor an information collection and a person is not required to respond to this information unless it displays a current valid OMB control number. The control number for this collection is 1651-0009. The estimated average time to complete this application is 4 minutes. Your response is mandatory. If you have any comments regarding the burden estimate you can write to U.S. Customs and Border Protection Office of Regulations and Rulings, 90 K Street, NE, 10th Floor, Washington, DC 20229.

CBP Form 6059B (11/16)

CBP Form 6059B (11/16)