CBP Form 6059B is the U.S. Customs Declaration that travelers complete when entering the United States to declare what they are bringing in, including purchases, gifts and agricultural products. One declaration covers a whole family traveling together.
This guide is general information, not legal advice. Always check current requirements on the official CBP website.
What Is CBP Form 6059B?
CBP Form 6059B, Customs Declaration, is the form travelers use to tell U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) what they are bringing into the country. CBP's guidance says travelers must complete the declaration itemizing purchased merchandise and agricultural products. CBP publishes fillable versions in several languages that can be typed, printed and carried with you.
Who Uses CBP Form 6059B?
- Travelers arriving in the United States by air, sea or land who need to declare items
- Families traveling together: one written declaration per family is enough
- U.S. residents returning from abroad and foreign visitors alike
Key Rules at a Glance
| Topic | What applies |
|---|---|
| One per family | Only one written declaration is needed per family. A family means members of the same household related by blood, marriage, domestic relationship or adoption |
| How to file | On the paper form handed out on your flight or cruise or at the port, at participating kiosks, or digitally through CBP's official channels where available |
| What to declare | Purchased merchandise, gifts, agricultural products and other items the form asks about |
| Language versions | CBP posts fillable versions in multiple languages |
How to Complete Form 6059B
- Fill in your personal and travel details exactly as in your passport.
- Answer every yes/no question about food, agricultural products, business merchandise and currency truthfully.
- List the items you're bringing in and their value as the form asks.
- Sign the declaration (one per family) and hand it to the CBP officer, or use the kiosk or digital option if offered.
What Happens If You Don't Declare?
Undeclared items can be seized, and travelers can face penalties. Declaring an item doesn't mean you'll pay duty: CBP applies any exemptions you're entitled to. When in doubt, declare it.
Related CBP Forms and Official Sources
Related forms: CBP I-94 record · CBP Form 4457 (personal effects registration) · CBP Form 3299 (unaccompanied articles)
Official sources:
All CBP Forms: Quick Directory
Every CBP form guide on our site, grouped by what you're doing:
- Importing and entry: CBP Form 5106 importer number · CBP Form 3461 entry/immediate delivery · CBP Form 7501 entry summary · CBP Form 301 customs bond · CBP Form 5291 power of attorney · CBP Form 4811 special address notification · CBP Form 400 ACH debit application · CBP Form 7523 duty-free entry and manifest
- Notices, detentions and disputes: CBP Form 28 and 29 information requests / notice of action · CBP Form 4647 notice to mark or redeliver · CBP Form 6051D detention notice · CBP Form 5955A penalty / liquidated damages notice · CBP Form 19 protest
- In-bond moves, warehouses and FTZs: CBP Form 7512 transportation entry · CBP Form 6043 delivery ticket · CBP Form 3499 manipulate, sample or transfer goods · CBP Form 3078 identification card
- Exports, returns and drawback: CBP Form 3311 returned American goods · CBP Form 4455 certificate of registration · CBP Form 3495 export under special bond · CBP Form 7553 drawback notice of intent
- Carriers and conveyances: CBP Form 1300 vessel entrance or clearance · CBP Form 7507 aircraft general declaration · CBP Form 7533 inward cargo manifest
- Travelers: CBP Form 6059B customs declaration (this page) · CBP Form 4457 personal effects registration · CBP Form 3299 unaccompanied articles · CBP I-94 arrival/departure record
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CBP Form 6059B?
It is the U.S. Customs Declaration that travelers complete when entering the United States to declare purchases, gifts, agricultural products and other items the form asks about.
Does every family member need a separate 6059B?
No. Only one written declaration is needed per family. A family means members of the same household related by blood, marriage, domestic relationship or adoption.
Can I fill out Form 6059B online?
CBP publishes fillable PDF versions you can type, print and bring with you. Some ports also offer kiosks or digital submission through CBP's official channels.
Do I have to pay duty on everything I declare?
Not necessarily. Declaring items lets CBP apply any exemptions you qualify for. Failing to declare can lead to seizure and penalties.
