Sending money to an inmate involves several secure methods, and the exact process depends on the facility where the inmate is housed. Below are the most common ways to send money to an inmate:
1. Online Services
Many facilities partner with secure online platforms to allow friends and family to deposit funds directly into an inmate's account.
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Popular Providers:
- JPay: Available for many state and federal facilities.
- Access Corrections: Common in state and county facilities.
- GTL/ConnectNetwork: Frequently used for federal and state institutions.
- Western Union Quick Collect: Used for federal and some state prisons.
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How to Use:
- Create an account on the provider's website.
- Add the inmate using their ID number and facility.
- Select the amount and pay with a debit or credit card.
2. Facility’s Kiosk or Mobile Apps
- Some facilities have kiosks in their lobby or use mobile apps that allow visitors to deposit money during visits.
- Payments are typically made using cash, credit, or debit cards.
3. Phone Services
- Many facilities allow deposits through automated phone systems provided by their payment partners (e.g., JPay, GTL).
- You'll need the inmate's ID number and a credit or debit card to complete the transaction.
4. Mail-In Deposits
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Checks or Money Orders:
- Some facilities allow you to mail a check or money order directly to the prison.
- It must include the inmate’s full name, ID number, and facility address.
- Confirm the required format and mailing instructions with the facility.
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Special Handling:
- Certain facilities use lockboxes or third-party processors for mailed payments (e.g., the Federal Bureau of Prisons uses a centralized location for money orders).
5. Walk-In Services
- MoneyGram or Western Union:
- Available at retail locations like Walmart or convenience stores.
- Provide the inmate’s details, facility code, and pay with cash, debit, or credit card.
6. Facility Commissary or Trust Accounts
- Funds are deposited into the inmate's trust account, which allows them to purchase commissary items like snacks, toiletries, and phone time.
- Check the specific rules of the facility regarding allowable amounts and frequency of deposits.
Important Considerations
- Inmate Details: Always have the inmate’s full name, ID number, and the facility’s name/address to ensure proper crediting.
- Fees: Be aware of processing fees, which vary by service provider and facility.
- Limits: Facilities often have deposit limits, so check the rules before sending large amounts.
- Prohibited Items: Never attempt to send cash or unauthorized items directly to the inmate.
For the most accurate information, confirm with the specific facility or visit its website to review the approved methods for sending money