Empower Your Loved Ones: Top Ways to Put Money on Inmate Books
Empower Your Loved Ones: Top Ways to Put Money on Inmate Books
Introduction
When your loved ones are incarcerated, your support and care for them never ends. One of the most significant ways to show your love is by putting money in their books to provide them with essential toiletries, food, and other necessities. However, transferring money to an inmate's account can be intimidating for many people, especially for first-timers. In this blog post, we will compare different ways to empower your loved ones by providing them with financial assistance in a correctional facility.
Option 1: Money Gram and Western Union
If you prefer online transactions, you can use Money Gram and Western Union to transfer money. Both services accept debit and credit cards, and Money Gram allows bank transfers as well. The good news is that you can deposit cash at any participating agent location if you don't have a credit/debit card. However, both options charge a fee based on the amount transferred.
Option 2: Staff/Facility Deposit
Most facilities allow family members and friends to deposit money into an inmate's account via mail or in-person. This method involves sending a money order or cashier's check directly to the prison's staff. Many correctional facilities provide an official address where you can send the money order. Although it can be time-consuming compared to online services, it avoids the fees charged by other providers.
Option 3: Inmate Trust Fund/Commissary Account
Some facilities offer an option to fund an inmate's trust account through their commissary accounts. These accounts work like debit accounts, allowing inmates to buy goods and services within the facility. However, this method may have specific limitations and may not work in every state. In addition, some facilities may require the funds to be sent to the inmate's trust account before being deposited into their commissary account.
Option 4: App-Based Solutions
New technologies like GTL, JPay, and ConnectNetwork now offer app-based solutions to fund an inmate's account. The mobile applications are free to download, and they offer easy access to deposit funds or send letters. It allows users to track the amounts transferred, view the recent transaction history, and set up notifications for scheduled transfers. The only downside is that some facilities do not accept these services, and it may involve extra fees.
Option 5: Debit Cards
Debit card options are relatively new, allowing users to deposit funds onto a prepaid debit card from the correctional service provider. This type of funding option works similarly to straight-to-inmate funds, but it is more flexible to manage. You can add funds to the card by logging into an online account and save multiple inmate details. Your loved one can use the card to make phone calls, buy items from the commissary, and even withdraw cash from an ATM. However, this method also includes additional fees.
Comparison Table
Options | Pros | Cons |
---|---|---|
Money Gram and Western Union | Easy-to-use Available online Funds available quickly | Associated fees Limited deposit options |
Staff/Facility deposit | Avoids fees Can deposit cash | May take longer than other options Complex deposit process |
Inmate Trust Fund/Commissary Account | Money can be used to buy goods and services within facilities Lower fees compared to other options | May not work in every state Limited transaction options |
App-Based Solutions | Available online Advance fund tracking options | Some facilities may not accept these solutions May involve extra fees |
Debit Cards | Flexibility in managing funds | High service fees Card may not be accepted at every facility |
Conclusion
Providing monetary help to your incarcerated loved ones is essential, and several options are available to make it easier for you. Each of the above-listed funding alternatives has its own unique features, costs, and limitations. Therefore, based on your preference and circumstances, be sure to choose an option that works best for you and your loved ones.
Final Thoughts
Without a doubt, having a loved one behind bars is emotionally challenging. Supporting them by putting money on inmate books can ease their burden and help them feel better. You can show your love through letters, phone calls, visits, and most importantly, financial assistance. Through this comparison blog post, we hope to have provided you with a clear understanding of the different ways to put money on inmate books.
Thank you for visiting our blog on empowering your loved ones by putting money on their inmate books. We understand how difficult it can be to navigate the prison system and support those who are incarcerated, which is why we hope that our tips and suggestions have been helpful to you.
Remember that by sending money to an inmate's account, you are not only providing them with items they may need or want, but also showing them that they have a support system outside of prison walls. Whether it's a small amount each month or on special occasions, your gestures can truly make a difference in their lives.
As you continue to navigate the world of incarceration and supporting loved ones who are behind bars, don't forget to take care of yourself as well. This can be a challenging and emotionally taxing journey, so be sure to seek out support from friends, family, or a professional if needed. You are not alone, and we hope that our blog has been a valuable resource for you.
Empower Your Loved Ones: Top Ways to Put Money on Inmate Books
Below are the most frequently asked questions regarding ways to put money on inmate books:
How can I put money on an inmate's book?
- You can send a money order or cashier's check directly to the facility where the inmate is being held.
- You can make a deposit through the facility's online deposit system, if available.
- You can use a third-party service such as JPay or Western Union to make a deposit.
What information do I need to make a deposit?
- You will typically need the inmate's full name, inmate ID number, and the name and location of the facility where they are being held.
Is there a limit to how much I can deposit?
- The amount you can deposit may vary depending on the facility and method of deposit. Some facilities may have a maximum deposit limit per transaction, while others may not have a limit.
Can inmates receive cash or personal checks?
- Most facilities do not allow inmates to receive cash or personal checks. It is best to check with the specific facility for their deposit policies.
What can the inmate use the funds for?
- The funds can be used by the inmate to purchase items such as food, hygiene products, and other approved items from the facility's commissary.
Can I get a refund if I deposit too much money?
- Refund policies vary by facility. Some may allow refunds for unused funds, while others may not. It is best to check with the specific facility for their refund policy.