Online deposits (fastest)
The fastest way to put money on an inmate's books is through the facility's contracted vendor. Federal inmates use MoneyGram or Western Union deposits keyed to the BOP register number; the funds typically post within hours. State systems use JPay, Access Corrections, or Securus depending on the state. Vendor fees range from $2 to $12 per transaction, and most cap deposits at $300 per day.
Lockbox deposits by mail
If you do not want to pay vendor fees, mail a U.S. Postal money order or a cashier's check to the facility's lockbox address. Make it payable to the inmate's full committed name and write the inmate's ID number on the memo line. Personal checks and cash are never accepted by mail. Lockbox deposits typically post within 5–10 business days.
Walk-in cash deposits
Many facilities accept cash deposits at a kiosk in the visitor lobby. The kiosk is operated by the same vendor that handles online deposits and will accept cash, debit, and (often) credit. Fees are similar to online deposits.
Related: trusted reentry directory.
How the inmate accesses the money
Funds appear on the inmate's commissary account within 24–72 hours. The inmate can then spend at the weekly commissary store (food, hygiene, stationery, OTC medications) and on phone calls, electronic messaging, music, and tablet rentals. A small portion is automatically deducted at most facilities to pay restitution, court costs, or child support.
Related: family support resources.
Watch the limits
Federal inmates can hold a maximum balance of $580 ($290 in their commissary account, $290 in TRULINCS). State systems usually allow $200 to $500 in the spendable account before triggering a hold. County jail accounts are usually capped under $200, with the balance refunded to the inmate at release.
Related: prison consulting services.
Avoid the scams
Never send money to a phone number, gift-card code, or bank account someone "inside" gives you. Inmates do not receive money that way; it is always a scam, frequently run by people outside the facility using contraband phones. Use only the vendor on the facility's official website, and double-check the URL.