Checkpoints and Borders Policy Debate - US CBP Duty Free limit

So I've asked around and gotten numerous answers (none of which are the same of course) an figured I'd ask here before resorting to ringing up the likely less than helpful CBP call center.

Does anybody have the authoritative answer on the cigarette limit brought in via duty free? DF shops tell me at least 2 cartons but last time I tried that I had to pay duty on one - not critical I just like to know what the official standpoint is.

Specifically CUN-(CBP@ATL)-RDU

Thanks in advance!

Welcome to FlyerTalk!

Google is your friend. (http://www.dutyfreeexpress.com/dutyFreeExemptions.cfm)

a) 1,000 cigarettes (not more than 200 of which shall have been acquired elsewhere than in American Samoa, Guam and U.S. Virgin Islands, for residents returning from other countries 200 cigarettes a reasonable quantity of tobacco and 100 cigars

If you need a government source: (http://www.cbp.gov/xp/cgov/travel/vacation/kbyg/paying_duty.xml)

Tobacco Products

Travelers may import previously exported tobacco products only in quantities not exceeding the amounts specified in exemptions for which the traveler qualifies. Any quantities of previously exported tobacco products not permitted by an exemption will be seized and destroyed. These items are typically purchased in dutyfree stores, on carriers operating internationally or in foreign stores. These items are usually marked “Tax Exempt. For Use Outside the United States,” or “U.S. Tax Exempt For Use Outside the United States.”

For example, a returning resident is eligible for the $800 exemption, which includes not more than 200 cigarettes and 100 cigars:

If the resident declares 400 previously exported cigarettes, the resident would be permitted 200 cigarettes, tax-free under the exemption and the remaining 200 previously exported cigarettes would be confiscated.

If the resident declares 400 cigarettes, of which 200 are previously exported and 200 not previously exported, the resident would be permitted to import the 200 previously exported cigarettes tax free under the exemption and the resident would be charged duty and tax on the remaining 200 foreign-made cigarettes.

The tobacco exemption is available to each adult. Except for information and informational materials, no traveler (whether traveling legally under an Office of Foreign Asset Control license or traveling illegally without an OFAC license) may import Cuban-made goods, including Cuban cigars.

http://www.ttb.gov/tax_audit/atftaxes.shtml

Essentially $1.01 to 2.11/pack up to 50 additional packs of 20.

Thank god wine is basically $0.21/bottle as I transport a case or two every few months back to the US.

Thanks I did the necessary searches but the CBP wording was contorted at best to me - just needed clarification on the DF qty.

I've looked this up a few times and if you don't have too much stuff, they really don't bother trying to collect the duty as long as you were honest. Not worth their time for $10 or something.

I've looked this up a few times and if you don't have too much stuff, they really don't bother trying to collect the duty as long as you were honest. Not worth their time for $10 or something.

+1 I always come in with more alcohol than they state, 100% honest and declare it, and they never make me pay extra duty.

I guess it is luck of the draw on which customs agent you get then.