Learn How To Send Money To Inmates

Understanding Prison Commissary Systems and How Money Works Inside

When someone is incarcerated, they need access to basic items that aren't always provided by the facility. These items—toiletries, snacks, clothing, phone cards, and writing materials—are purchased through a prison commissary system. Think of it like a store inside the prison. Money sent to an inmate becomes part of their commissary account, which they can then use to buy things from this internal store.

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Each correctional facility operates its commissary differently. Some prisons run their own stores where inmates can shop during designated times. Others contract with private companies to manage the system. The money you send doesn't go directly into an inmate's pocket—it goes into an account that tracks their balance, similar to a debit card or bank account. Inmates typically receive a list of available items and prices, and they submit orders or shop during commissary hours.

It's important to understand that prison commissaries aren't cheap. A candy bar might cost twice what it does outside, and basic hygiene products are often marked up significantly. However, for many incarcerated people, commissary money from family and friends is the only way to get these necessities. Some facilities provide minimal items, making commissary purchases essential for maintaining health and dignity.

Different security levels handle commissary differently too. Minimum-security facilities often allow more frequent shopping, while maximum-security prisons may have restricted commissary hours. Some facilities limit how much money an inmate can have on account at one time—this is called a "cap." Understanding your specific facility's rules helps you send money that will actually be useful.

Takeaway: Prison commissary is how incarcerated people buy necessities and personal items. Money you send becomes account credit they use like an internal store card. Learn your specific facility's commissary rules before sending funds.

Different Methods for Sending Money to Inmates

Several methods exist for sending money to someone in prison, and the options available depend on which facility they're in and what that facility accepts. The most common methods include money transfer services, direct bank deposits, postal money orders, and in-person deposits at the facility itself. Each method has different costs, processing times, and requirements.

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Money transfer services like Western Union, MoneyGram, and facility-specific services (like JPay, Securus, or Corrlinks) are among the fastest options. These services allow you to send money online or in person at various locations. Processing times vary—some deposits appear within 24 hours, while others may take several business days. Many of these services charge fees, typically ranging from $1 to $15 per transaction depending on the amount and method. Some facilities have contracts with specific providers, meaning you may only be able to use that company to send money.

Postal money orders remain a traditional and reliable option. You can purchase them at post offices, many retail stores, and banks for a small fee (usually under $2). You mail the money order to the facility's business office with the inmate's name, inmate number, and facility information. This method is slower—typically taking 1-3 weeks for processing—but it usually has the lowest fees. However, some newer facilities no longer accept mail-in money orders due to security concerns.

Direct bank transfers and wire transfers are options at some facilities. You send money directly to an account maintained by the correctional facility. Some facilities have websites where you can set up transfers online. Check-by-mail is another method where you mail a personal check to the facility's business office, though this is becoming less common.

In-person deposits at the facility are available at many prisons. You can walk into the visiting area or business office during posted hours and deposit money directly. No fees apply in most cases, making this the cheapest option, but it requires traveling to the prison location.

Takeaway: Multiple methods exist—money transfer services (fastest but with fees), postal money orders (cheapest but slower), bank transfers, and in-person deposits. Your facility's rules determine which methods are available. Confirm accepted methods before choosing how to send money.

Finding Your Inmate's Information and Facility Details

Before you can send money, you need specific information about the inmate and their location. This includes their full legal name, inmate number (also called DOC number or BOP number), and the exact name and address of the correctional facility where they're housed. Getting this information right is critical—using incorrect details means your money won't reach the intended person.

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The inmate number is the most important piece of information. This unique identifier ensures money goes to the correct person, especially when multiple people share the same name. When an inmate is booked, they're assigned this number. It typically appears on their commissary forms, visitation paperwork, or correspondence they send you. If you don't have it, contact the inmate directly and ask them to include it in their next letter or phone call.

To locate facility information, start with your state's Department of Corrections website. Most states maintain searchable inmate locator systems where you enter a name and receive information about their current location, custody level, expected release date, and other details. The Federal Bureau of Prisons maintains a national inmate locator at bop.gov. Private locator websites also exist, though verify information through official government sources.

Once you know the facility, obtain the correct mailing address and any specific instructions for sending money. Prison websites typically list the business office or commissary office address specifically for deposits. Use this address rather than the general facility address. Some facilities require specific payment instructions—for example, "Make checks payable to [Facility Name] Inmate Commissary" or "Include inmate number on all correspondence."

Contact the facility directly if you're unsure about any details. Call the business office or commissary department during posted hours. Staff can confirm the inmate's location, approved payment methods, any account caps, and current processing times. Having this conversation before sending money prevents delays and failed transactions.

Takeaway: Gather the inmate number, full legal name, and correct facility address from state inmate locator systems or by contacting the facility directly. Accurate information ensures your money reaches the right person without delays.

Processing Times, Fees, and Account Limitations

Understanding how long deposits take, what costs are involved, and what restrictions apply helps you make informed decisions about sending money. Processing times vary dramatically depending on the method and facility. Online money transfers through approved providers may deposit within 24 hours, while postal money orders might take 2-4 weeks. Some facilities batch-process deposits on specific days, meaning money sent Tuesday might not show up until the next weekly processing batch.

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Fees represent a significant cost when sending money regularly. Online transfer services typically charge $2-$15 per transaction. Postal money orders cost under $2 but have slower processing. Some facilities charge fees on the receiving end—they may deduct a percentage (typically 2-3%) from each deposit as a "processing fee." Over time, these fees add up. If you send $50 monthly for a year, fees might total $50-$100 or more depending on the method and facility.

Many facilities impose account caps—maximum balances an inmate can have at one time. These caps typically range from $50 to $500 per month. This policy prevents large accumulations and manages commissary inventory. If an inmate's account reaches the cap, additional deposits are rejected or held until the balance drops. Check your facility's specific cap before sending money, as deposits above this limit won't process.

Weekly deposit limits also exist at some facilities. You might be able to send money multiple times per week, or you might be limited to one deposit every 7 days. These rules vary significantly between facilities and sometimes between individual facilities within the same state system.

Rejected deposits happen for various reasons: incorrect inmate information, account cap limits reached, incorrect payment method, or facility policy violations. When a deposit is rejected through a money transfer service, the funds typically return to the original payment method within 5-10 business days. For postal money orders, rejected deposits may be returned by mail, which adds another 1-2 weeks to the process.

Takeaway: Processing takes 24 hours to several weeks depending on method. Fees range from under $2 to $15 per transaction. Account caps typically limit balances to $50-$500 monthly. Understanding these factors helps you choose the most cost-effective method and plan accordingly.

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