How to Send Money to Federal and County Inmates in Jail or Prison

After locating your loved one through a federal inmate search, the next step is ensuring they can access essential services during their time behind bars. Sending money to an inmate allows them to purchase personal hygiene products, food, and other basic items not provided by the facility. It’s also a meaningful way to stay connected and support their well-being.

Accepted Methods to Send Money to a Prisoner

There are three primary methods for depositing funds into a prisoner's account:

• Online transfers via secure platforms (using credit or debit cards)
• Bank wire transfers
• Money orders sent through the mail

Cash and personal checks are not accepted. Always follow facility-specific guidelines when sending funds or other items.

Where to Send Money for Federal Inmates

The Federal Bureau of Prisons assigns each federal inmate a commissary or trust account. Funds sent must be directed to a central processing facility, not to the prison directly. For inmates held in private federal facilities, such as those run by GEO Corp., payment platforms may differ (e.g., Pigeonly.com) and can include additional fees.

How to Send Money Online to a Federal Inmate

To send money to someone in federal prison online, use trusted services such as:

• JPay
• Western Union
• ConnectNetwork
• MoneyGram

Most platforms require the inmate’s full name and eight-digit ID number. You’ll be guided step-by-step through secure, user-friendly interfaces that process transactions quickly, often within 24 hours.

Search terms like “send money to a federal inmate” or “prisoner money transfer” can help you find the appropriate service.

Sending Money by Mail: Step-by-Step

If you're mailing a money order, follow these exact instructions:

Get a money order from:

• Western Union
• MoneyGram
• USPS
• A local bank or supermarket

Include this information:

• Account Number: [Inmate’s 8-digit register number] + [last name] (no spaces/dashes)
• Company Name: Federal Bureau of Prisons
• City/State: Washington, DC
• Receive Code: 7932
• Beneficiary: Full committed name of the inmate

Mail it to:

• Federal Bureau of Prisons
• [Inmate Full Name]
• [Inmate 8-digit ID Number]
• P.O. Box 474701
• Des Moines, IA 50947-0001

Include a return address in case the money order cannot be processed.

Can You Use Western Union to Send Money to a Prisoner?

Yes. Western Union supports inmate money transfers both online and at physical locations. You’ll need the inmate's details and the facility information to proceed.

Steps:

1. Visit the Western Union website or nearest location
2. Select "Send to Inmate"
3. Provide the necessary information
4. Complete payment via credit, debit, or cash

Using Phone Apps to Send Money to an Inmate

Several services—like JPay and ConnectNetwork—offer mobile apps that simplify inmate fund transfers. These apps ensure faster processing and let you track transactions easily.

You can also complete transfers by phone through services like JPay or Western Union. Have your payment information and the inmate’s ID ready.

Understanding Inmate Commissary Accounts

Each federal inmate has a trust fund account for purchasing personal items, such as:

• Hygiene products
• Stamps
• Snacks
• Phone time
• Email access
• Over-the-counter medications

Some inmates may also earn money through prison jobs. Others rely entirely on family and friends for financial support.

Always confirm the inmate’s current facility and ID number before sending funds.

Account Limits and Spending Rules

Spending is typically capped at $320/month, though individual wardens may impose different limits or restrictions.

Here’s a breakdown of common costs:

• Phone calls: 21 cents per minute (approx. 300 mins/month)
• Email/internet: 20 cents per minute, capped at 40 hours/month
• Video calls: Often limited and rationed

Prisoners must carefully budget their commissary expenses.

Checking an Inmate’s Account

Inmates receive monthly account statements, much like bank statements. These are private and not shared with outsiders. If you’re concerned about whether funds have been received, contact the service provider (JPay, Western Union, etc.) or the prison’s finance department.

FAQs

What are the traditional methods of sending money to a prisoner?

Mailing a money order or visiting a facility’s kiosk are the most common traditional methods.

Are there limits or restrictions?

Yes, most prisons limit monthly spending and have strict rules on the types of funds accepted. Always check with the facility beforehand.

How do I confirm the funds were received?

Use the online platform’s tracking feature or contact the prison directly. Inmates also receive monthly account statements.

What’s the fastest way to send money to a federal inmate?

Online methods like JPay or ConnectNetwork are typically the fastest, with processing times under 24 hours.

Can I send money using the U.S. Postal Service?

Yes, via money order only. Include the inmate’s full name, ID number, and follow mailing instructions precisely.