Originally Posted by
doober
The charge of the TSA is limited to "the inspection of individuals and property FOR weapons, explosives, and incendiaries." (Thank you, Trollkiller.)
Cash is none of the above.
Further it is an outright LIE by the TSA to state: it is illegal to carry more than $10,000 cash.
EVERY BANKING TRANSACTION $10,000.00 OR MORE, IS REPORTED TO THE TREASURY and IRS.
Further, when travelling INTERNATIONALLY, a declaration that you are carrying $10,000 OR MORE is REQUIRED by law.
Customs, in turn, reports the information to the Treasury and IRS.
That's why TSA and Customs can ask in the PERFORMANCE of their official duties, and IF they open your luggage and find large amounts of cash, the question then becomes are you invoved in something illegal and money-laundering? Are the bills REAL or counterfeit?
Wire-Transfers and Letters of Credit are much safer instruments for large amounts.