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Contents

The CBP 6059B form plays a crucial role in the customs process for travelers entering the United States. This form is primarily used by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to gather essential information from individuals arriving in the country. It serves as a declaration of items being brought into the U.S., helping to ensure compliance with various regulations. Travelers are required to disclose details about their belongings, including any goods that may be subject to duties or restrictions. The form also collects information about the purpose of the visit, which aids in assessing the nature of the traveler’s entry. By completing the CBP 6059B, individuals help facilitate a smoother customs experience, allowing authorities to efficiently process arrivals while maintaining security and regulatory standards. Understanding this form is important for anyone planning to travel to the U.S., as it ensures that all necessary information is provided and can prevent potential delays at the border.

Preview - CBP 6059B Form

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.
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.
Description of Articles
(List may continue on another CBP Form 6059B)
Value
CBP
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 (7/24
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."
1
Family Name
YearDay
First (Given)
Airline/Flight No. or Vessel Name
(d) soil or have been on a farm/ranch/pasture:
or goods that are not considered personal effects)
(articles for sale, samples used for soliciting orders,
I have (We have) commercial merchandise:
(
see definition of monetary instruments on reverse)
over $10,000 U.S. or foreign equivalent:
I am (We are) carrying currency or monetary instruments
(
such as touching or handling)
I have (We have) been in close proximity of livestock:
(c) disease agents, cell cultures, snails:
(b) meats, animals, animal/wildlife products:
(a) fruits, vegetables, plants, seeds, food, insects:
I am (We are) bringing
The primary purpose of this trip is business:
Countries visited on this
trip prior to U.S. arrival
Country of Residence
Passport number
Passport issued by (country)
(b) City (c) State
(a) U.S. Street Address (hotel name/destination)
Number of Family members traveling with you
Birth date
Middle
2
9
14
15
13
12
11
10
8
7
6
5
4
3
Month
RESIDENTS—the total value of all goods, including commercial
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:
Yes
NoYes
NoYes
NoYes
NoYes
NoYes
NoYes
NoYes
No
Customs Declaration
19 CFR 122.27, 148.12, 148.13, 148.110, 148.111, 19 USC 1498; 31 CFR 5316
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.
CBP Form 6059B (7/24)
I HAVE READ THE IMPORTANT INFORMATION ON THE REVERSE SIDE OF THIS FORM
AND HAVE MADE A TRUTHFUL DECLARATION.
Signature Date (month/day/year)
X
FORM APPROVED
OMB NO.1651-0009
This Space For Official Use Only

Document Specifics

Fact Name Details
Purpose The CBP 6059B form is used by U.S. Customs and Border Protection for travelers to declare items they are bringing into the United States.
Who Must File All travelers entering the U.S. must complete the form, including U.S. citizens, residents, and foreign visitors.
Information Required The form requires details about the traveler's identity, travel itinerary, and any goods being declared.
Submission Method The form can be submitted electronically or in paper format upon arrival at a U.S. port of entry.
Governing Laws The form is governed by U.S. federal laws related to customs and import regulations, including the Tariff Act of 1930.
Language The form is available in both English and Spanish to accommodate diverse travelers.
Penalties for Non-Compliance Failure to accurately complete the form can result in fines, confiscation of goods, or legal action.
Validity Period The CBP 6059B form is valid only for the specific trip for which it is completed.

CBP 6059B: Usage Instruction

Once you have the CBP 6059B form in hand, you will need to complete it accurately to ensure a smooth entry process into the United States. This form is typically required for travelers arriving in the U.S. and is used to collect information about the traveler and their belongings. Follow these steps to fill it out correctly.

  1. Begin by writing your name in the designated field. Include your last name, first name, and middle name if applicable.
  2. Next, provide your date of birth. Format it as month/day/year.
  3. Enter your gender by checking the appropriate box.
  4. Fill in your citizenship. Specify the country of citizenship.
  5. In the passport number section, write your passport number as it appears on the document.
  6. Indicate your country of issuance for the passport.
  7. Provide your address in the United States, including street, city, state, and zip code.
  8. Complete the flight information section by entering your flight number and the name of the airline.
  9. In the arrival date section, write the date you are entering the U.S.
  10. Finally, sign and date the form at the bottom to certify that the information provided is accurate.

Learn More on CBP 6059B

What is the CBP 6059B form?

The CBP 6059B form is a declaration form used by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). It is required for travelers entering the United States. This form helps CBP gather information about the items you are bringing into the country, including any goods that may be subject to duties or restrictions.

Who needs to fill out the CBP 6059B form?

Any traveler, including U.S. citizens and foreign visitors, who is entering the United States must complete the CBP 6059B form. This applies whether you are traveling by air, land, or sea.

Where can I obtain the CBP 6059B form?

The CBP 6059B form is typically provided by airlines or other transportation carriers before you arrive in the U.S. You can also find it online on the CBP website. It’s advisable to complete the form before you reach customs to expedite the process.

What information is required on the CBP 6059B form?

The form asks for various details, including:

  • Your personal information (name, address, date of birth)
  • Your flight or travel details
  • A list of items you are bringing into the U.S.
  • Any currency or monetary instruments exceeding $10,000
  • Information about gifts or items for resale

What happens if I don’t fill out the CBP 6059B form?

Failing to complete the CBP 6059B form can lead to delays at customs. In some cases, you may be subject to fines or penalties. It’s essential to provide accurate information to avoid complications.

Can I submit the CBP 6059B form electronically?

Currently, the CBP 6059B form is not available for electronic submission. Travelers must fill out a paper version of the form. However, some airlines may offer a digital version that can be completed before your flight.

What should I do if I make a mistake on the CBP 6059B form?

If you realize you made a mistake on the form, it’s best to inform a customs officer when you arrive. They can help you correct any errors. Being honest and upfront can help avoid any misunderstandings.

Is there a fee for submitting the CBP 6059B form?

No, there is no fee for filling out or submitting the CBP 6059B form. It is a necessary part of the customs process and is provided free of charge.

What should I do with the CBP 6059B form after I complete it?

After filling out the CBP 6059B form, keep it with your travel documents. You will need to present it to customs officials upon arrival in the United States. Make sure it is easily accessible to ensure a smooth entry process.

Common mistakes

Filling out the CBP 6059B form can be straightforward, but many individuals make common mistakes that can lead to delays or complications. One frequent error is providing incorrect personal information. This includes misspellings of names, wrong birth dates, or incorrect passport numbers. Such inaccuracies can create confusion and may even result in additional questioning by Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officials.

Another mistake is neglecting to declare items that should be reported. Travelers often underestimate the value of items they are bringing into the country, thinking they can go unnoticed. However, failing to declare goods can lead to penalties, including fines or confiscation of the items. It’s essential to be honest and thorough when listing items on the form.

Many people also overlook the importance of understanding the form's requirements. Some travelers assume that the instructions are optional or that they already know what to include. This assumption can lead to incomplete forms. Every section of the form must be filled out accurately to ensure a smooth entry process.

Lastly, not signing the form is a common oversight. A signature is necessary to validate the information provided. Without a signature, the form may be deemed invalid, causing delays at the border. Always double-check to ensure that the form is signed before submission.

Documents used along the form

The CBP 6059B form, also known as the Customs Declaration form, is essential for travelers entering the United States. This form helps U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) assess whether travelers are bringing in items that could be subject to duties or restrictions. In addition to the CBP 6059B, several other forms and documents are commonly used during the customs process. Below is a list of these important documents.

  • CBP Form 7501: This is the entry summary form used by importers to declare goods brought into the U.S. It provides detailed information about the imported items, including their value and classification.
  • CBP Form I-94: The Arrival/Departure Record, issued to non-U.S. citizens, documents their arrival in the U.S. and the duration of their stay. It is crucial for tracking immigration status.
  • Form 8862: This form is used to claim the Earned Income Credit after it has been disallowed in previous years. It provides the IRS with necessary information to determine eligibility.
  • Form 8233: This form is for non-resident aliens who are claiming a tax treaty exemption from withholding on compensation for independent personal services. It ensures compliance with U.S. tax laws.
  • Commercial Invoice: A commercial invoice is a document provided by the seller to the buyer, detailing the goods sold, their value, and the terms of sale. It is essential for customs clearance.
  • Bill of Lading: This document serves as a receipt for the shipment and a contract between the shipper and carrier. It outlines the details of the transportation of goods.

Understanding these forms and documents can help streamline the customs process for travelers and importers alike. Proper documentation ensures compliance with U.S. regulations and facilitates a smoother entry into the country.

Similar forms

The CBP 6059B form, used by U.S. Customs and Border Protection, serves as a declaration form for travelers entering the United States. A similar document is the CBP Form 7507, which is a declaration form for goods being imported. While the CBP 6059B focuses on the individual’s travel and personal items, Form 7507 is specifically designed for commercial imports. Both forms require accurate information to ensure compliance with U.S. customs regulations and help in assessing duties and taxes on imported goods.

Another related document is the I-94 Arrival/Departure Record. This form is issued to foreign nationals entering the U.S. and captures details about their arrival and intended length of stay. Like the CBP 6059B, the I-94 is crucial for tracking an individual’s immigration status. However, the I-94 is more focused on the legal aspects of a traveler’s stay in the U.S., while the CBP 6059B deals with personal declarations and items being brought into the country.

The CBP Form 3299, also known as the Declaration for Free Entry of Unaccompanied Articles, shares similarities with the CBP 6059B in that both forms require travelers to declare items. However, the 3299 is specifically for items being sent to the U.S. without the traveler being present. This form is often used for personal effects, while the CBP 6059B is completed by individuals arriving in person, making it essential for immediate customs processing.

The Form 8840, Closer Connection Exception Statement for Aliens, is another document that relates to the CBP 6059B. While the 6059B addresses items and personal goods, Form 8840 deals with tax residency status. Both forms are important for individuals entering the U.S. but serve different purposes—one for customs and the other for tax compliance.

The CBP Form 7501, Entry Summary, is also similar to the CBP 6059B as it involves the declaration of goods entering the U.S. However, the 7501 is primarily used for commercial shipments, detailing the classification and value of imported merchandise. In contrast, the CBP 6059B is focused on personal items and travel-related declarations, making it more relevant for individual travelers.

Lastly, the Form 1302, which is the Declaration of the Value of Goods, is akin to the CBP 6059B in that it requires travelers to declare the value of items being brought into the U.S. This form is used for specific goods and is often required for higher-value items. The CBP 6059B, however, covers a broader range of personal items and does not require a detailed valuation, making it more user-friendly for the average traveler.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the CBP 6059B form, it's important to pay attention to the details. Here’s a list of things you should and shouldn’t do to ensure a smooth process.

  • Do read the instructions carefully before starting.
  • Don’t leave any required fields blank.
  • Do use clear and legible handwriting if filling it out by hand.
  • Don’t use abbreviations that might confuse the reader.
  • Do double-check your personal information for accuracy.
  • Don’t provide false information; honesty is crucial.
  • Do sign and date the form where required.
  • Don’t forget to keep a copy for your records.
  • Do ask for help if you’re unsure about any part of the form.

Following these guidelines can help you avoid common pitfalls and ensure your form is processed without delay.

Misconceptions

The CBP 6059B form, also known as the Customs Declaration form, is essential for travelers entering the United States. However, there are several misconceptions surrounding this form that can lead to confusion. Below is a list of common misunderstandings about the CBP 6059B form, along with explanations to clarify each point.

  • Misconception 1: The CBP 6059B form is only for international travelers.
  • This is not entirely true. While the form is primarily used by individuals entering the U.S. from abroad, it can also apply to U.S. citizens returning from international trips. Everyone must declare any goods they bring back.

  • Misconception 2: You only need to fill out the form if you have something to declare.
  • Even if you have nothing to declare, you are still required to complete the form. It’s important to indicate that you have no items to declare to comply with customs regulations.

  • Misconception 3: The form can be submitted electronically.
  • Currently, the CBP 6059B form must be completed on paper. Travelers receive the form during their flight or at the border, and it must be presented to customs officials upon arrival.

  • Misconception 4: Only adults need to fill out the form.
  • Children traveling with adults also need to be included on the form. Parents or guardians can list their children’s items under their own declarations.

  • Misconception 5: The form is only for declaring items purchased abroad.
  • The form is not limited to purchases. It also includes gifts, food items, and other personal belongings that travelers may bring back into the country.

  • Misconception 6: There is a fee for filing the CBP 6059B form.
  • There is no fee associated with the CBP 6059B form. It is a free declaration that travelers must complete as part of the customs process.

  • Misconception 7: You can get in trouble for declaring items.
  • Declaring items is a legal requirement. Being honest about what you are bringing into the country is the best approach. Failure to declare can lead to penalties.

  • Misconception 8: The form is not important and can be ignored.
  • This is a significant misconception. Ignoring the form can lead to delays, fines, or even confiscation of goods. It is crucial to take the declaration seriously.

  • Misconception 9: You can change your declaration after submission.
  • Once the CBP 6059B form is submitted, changes cannot be made. If you realize you made a mistake, it’s best to inform a customs officer immediately.

Understanding these misconceptions can help travelers navigate the customs process more smoothly. Always take the time to complete the CBP 6059B form accurately to ensure compliance with U.S. customs regulations.

Key takeaways

The CBP 6059B form is an important document for travelers entering the United States. Here are some key takeaways to keep in mind when filling it out and using it:

  • Purpose of the Form: The CBP 6059B form is used to declare items you are bringing into the U.S., including gifts, food, and other goods.
  • Who Needs to Fill It Out: All travelers, including U.S. citizens and non-citizens, must complete this form when entering the country.
  • Accurate Information is Crucial: Providing accurate information helps avoid delays and potential penalties at customs.
  • Customs Declaration: The form serves as a customs declaration. Be honest about what you are bringing into the country.
  • Exemptions: Familiarize yourself with exemptions. Certain items may not require declaration, such as personal items for immediate use.
  • Penalties for Non-Compliance: Failing to declare items can result in fines or confiscation of goods. Always err on the side of caution.
  • Form Availability: You can obtain the CBP 6059B form at U.S. ports of entry or online, making it accessible for all travelers.
  • Keep a Copy: After filling it out, keep a copy for your records. This can be helpful in case of any questions or issues during your travels.

Understanding these key points can make your entry into the United States smoother and more efficient. Safe travels!