What Is Customs Form 4790 and Who Must File It?
Customs Form 4790 is the official name for the Report of International Transportation of Currency or Monetary Instruments (CMIR), also known as FinCEN 105. It is required for any person or institution transporting $10,000 or more in currency or monetary instruments into or out of the United States. The report must be filed with a CBP officer at the point of entry or departure.
What Monetary Instruments Must Be Declared?
The following types of monetary instruments are covered by the reporting requirement:
- U.S. and foreign currency (coins and paper money)
- Traveler's checks of any value
- Personal or business checks made out to bearer
- Money orders in bearer form
- Bearer bonds and other negotiable instruments
Checks made payable to a specific named person and not endorsed are generally not considered bearer instruments and may not require declaration. When in doubt, declare the item to avoid potential penalties.
How to Complete the Form
When filling out the report, you will need to provide personal identification information, the total value of all covered instruments, a description of the instruments, the source and destination of the funds, and your travel itinerary. The form must be signed and dated at the time of submission. You can download and complete it before your trip to save time at the border.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Failure to file or providing false information on this form is a federal offense. Consequences can include civil money penalties, criminal prosecution, and forfeiture of the unreported funds. CBP officers are authorized to detain funds that have not been properly declared. Travelers should be aware that the obligation applies even if the money was legally obtained.
Related U.S. Customs and Border Forms
When traveling internationally, you may need to complete additional customs forms. The CBP Form 6059B is required for all international travelers arriving in the United States to declare goods purchased abroad. Travelers crossing into Canada may need the Canada Customs Invoice for commercial goods. For more U.S. border forms, see our U.S. Customs and Border Protection forms collection.
