Introduction
If you have a loved one who is currently incarcerated, you understand how challenging it can be to maintain communication with them and provide for their basic needs. One of the most practical ways to support an inmate is by depositing money on their books. In this article, we provide a comprehensive guide on how to add money to an inmate’s account. We cover different methods, offer step-by-step instructions, and provide practical tips to avoid getting scammed.
Step-by-Step Guide
Before adding funds to an inmate’s account, there are a few requirements you must fulfill. Firstly, you will have to identify the inmate’s identification number and the name, address, and contact information of the correctional facility where they are incarcerated. Secondly, you must make sure you are depositing funds within the permitted limits – most institutions have maximum and minimum deposit amounts. Once you have this information, there are different methods you can use to add funds to an inmate’s account.
To send a cashier’s check or money order, you can simply obtain one from a bank or post office and mail it to the correctional facility. Ensure you include the necessary information, such as the inmate’s ID, their name, and the name and address of the correctional facility. The check should be addressed to the inmate, not the institution or a staff member.
If you prefer online options, you can use online payment providers such as JPay, Access Corrections, or TouchPay. To add funds using JPay, for instance, you need to create an account, find the inmate through their state and identification number, choose the amount you wish to deposit, and complete the transaction.
Regardless of the method you use, keep in mind that it might take varying durations for the funds to be available to the inmate. In some cases, the processing and approval time may be delayed, requiring patience from both the sender and the inmate.
Online Payment Options
Online payment providers can simplify the process of adding money to an inmate’s account. When using these providers, you will need to create an account, provide personal details, and link a chosen payment method. Many inmates also have access to a tablet or computer within the facility, which they can use to claim deposited funds.
It is essential to consider the fees that these platforms charge per transaction. For instance, JPay charges up to 35% in fees, depending on the deposit method and the correctional facility. Access Corrections charges up to 4.95% plus a $3.50 processing fee per transaction. Touchpay, on the other hand, charges a fixed $4.00 transaction fee per deposit.
Using the Mobile App
Mobile apps can offer flexibility when depositing funds on an inmate’s account. However, they may pose certain limitations concerning transaction fees and security concerns. When using a mobile app, ensure you have a secure internet connection and only use official apps provided by the relevant payment provider.
To use a mobile app to add funds to the inmate’s account, you will need to download the app, create an account, search for the relevant inmate, and complete the payment process. Many apps, such as JPay, offer additional services such as sending letters and sharing photos with the inmates.
Money Transfer Service
Money transfer services such as Western Union and MoneyGram are additional options when trying to add money to an inmate’s account. However, they are not the most practical options, given their higher transaction fees and more stringent verification processes.
To use a money transfer service, you will need to find the nearest Western Union or MoneyGram location, provide the relevant identification and contact information, and initiate the transfer. It is often more expensive to go through money transfer services than to use online payment providers.
Tips to Avoid Scams
Unfortunately, since the process of adding money to an inmate’s account involves sharing personal and financial details, there is always a risk of getting scammed. To avoid falling victim to potential scams, ensure you only use credible sources, such as the official websites and apps of the payment providers. It is also critical to verify the information provided before making any deposit.
If you suspect you might have been scammed, contact the relevant correctional facility immediately and report the issue to the relevant authorities.
The Importance of Money on the Books
The funds you deposit to an inmate’s account can provide vital necessities such as clothing, hygiene products, phone calls, and emails. Some incarcerated people also use the funds to purchase books, music, and educational materials. Having access to these basic needs can improve an inmate’s mental well-being, making the experience of being incarcerated more bearable.
By depositing money on an inmate’s account, you also provide a practical way of supporting your loved ones and maintaining contact.
Conclusion
In conclusion, adding money to an inmate’s account is a practical way of supporting your incarcerated loved ones. Through this comprehensive guide, we have covered different options available to you, including online payment providers, mobile apps, and money transfer services, among others. These methods involve different transaction fees, processing duration, and verification requirements. We have also emphasized the importance of avoiding getting scammed and the impact of deposited funds on the inmate’s wellbeing. It is crucial to continue advocating for the need for practical support for those incarcerated, reducing the stigma associated with having loved ones in the correctional system. We encourage you to share this article with others to provide practical help to those who need it.
