How to Send Money to an Inmate in the US
Sending money to a prisoner in the USA involves understanding the intricacies of the correctional system's financial structure. Inmates rely on funds in their commissary accounts to purchase essential items and communicate with the outside world. This guide will walk you through the steps to send money to an inmate, highlight the importance of commissary purchases, and outline the available methods for sending money.
What is a Commissary Account?
A commissary account serves as a bank account cum grocery store for each inmate within the correctional system. A commissary account enables inmates to securely receive and use funds from friends and family. Using a commissary account, an inmate can buy various products. From clothing and snacks to hygiene products and entertainment items, the commissary plays a vital role in an inmate's daily life. Notably, it is a lifeline for prisoners to fund their daily needs.
If you've ever wondered exactly what your loved one spends commissary funds on or how much those small purchases matter to their day-to-day life, it helps to understand what life inside actually looks like. Read our article on what life inside prison really looks like to get a clearer picture of your loved one's daily routine and needs.
Various Ways Inmates Can Receive Money In Their Commissary Account
There are three primary ways inmates can fund their commissary accounts.
- Firstly, they may work within the Correctional facility, earning a modest income. There are various opportunities available depending on one's educational qualifications.
- Secondly, funds can come from trust funds, inheritances, or legal settlements.
- The third and most common method involves friends and family members sending money to the inmate.
Alongside commissary funds, staying in regular phone contact is one of the most important ways to support a loved one inside. But setting up prison phone calls comes with its own process, costs, and rules that many families aren't aware of. Read our full guide on how to call an inmate using prison phone services so you can stay connected without any surprises.
Various Methods of Sending Money To A Prisoner
The process of sending money varies based on the type of correctional facility, whether it's a jail, prison, or federal facility. Federal Prisons and some state prisons have centralized banking systems. Below are the most common options:
- Cash deposits in the lobby or a kiosk.
- Postal money orders are mailed directly to the institution.
- Phone banking / Tele-services.
- Net banking and Prison Apps.
- Third-party services like Jpay, Western Union, and Moneygram.
Critical Information Required For Sending Money
Regardless of the chosen method, specific key details are essential when sending funds:
- Inmate's full committed name
- Inmate's identification number
- Current Facility name of the inmate
Before initiating any transaction, it's crucial to research and understand the specific procedures of a particular institution; you can find it on the facility page.
Who can send money to an inmate?
Most facilities mandate that you are either on the contact list of the inmate or an immediate family member to be able to send money to an inmate's commissary account. Before sending money, call the inmate's facility to confirm your eligibility. You might need to complete an initial setup to become eligible to send money. For more details, contact the inmate's legal advisor or prison facility and complete the required documentation.
Considerations Before Sending Money For The First Time
Unfortunately, some challenges may arise when sending money to an inmate. Some states mandate that a percentage of the funds received be used for fines and restitution. Additionally, inmates may encounter other challenging situations when a fund is received. It's better to contact the inmate and the inmate's lawyer before sending any money.
Financial Help For Families of Inmates
Regularly sending money to an inmate is a generous act of love — but it can quietly put a real strain on your own finances. If you're finding it hard to keep up with commissary deposits on top of everyday bills, there is support available. Our guide on financial assistance programs for families of incarcerated people covers government benefits, nonprofit aid, and emergency funds that can help your household stay financially stable.
Conclusion
Sending money to a prisoner might involve complex rules and procedures per the state and the current facility. By understanding the importance of commissaries, researching specific institution requirements, and being vigilant about potential issues, you can ensure a smooth process that supports the inmates' needs without compromising your financial security. Always keep records of transactions; if in doubt, contact the inmate's legal counsellor for guidance.