How to Add Money to an Inmate’s Account

Keeping in contact with an incarcerated person involves more than phone calls or letters. It often means helping with their daily needs. Inmates rely on their commissary accounts to buy personal items, including toiletries, snacks, stamps, and phone time. Adding funds is a critical way to support them. Knowing how to add money to an inmate account ensures that support reaches them securely and efficiently.

Depending on the correctional facility, you may have several ways to send funds. Some allow you to send money online or by phone, while others allow in-person deposits or mail delivery. Western Union can help make the process faster and easier. Through Send2Corrections, Western Union connects you with participating facilities using reliable digital and physical methods.

Key takeaways

• You can add money to an inmate’s commissary account online, by phone, in person, or by mail, depending on facility rules.
• Online services like Western Union’s Send2Corrections make it quick and secure to support a loved one.
• Always check the correctional facility’s policies before sending funds.
• Commissary accounts help inmates purchase essential items like hygiene products, snacks, and stamps.
• Sending accurate information (including inmate ID) helps ensure successful delivery.

Ways to add money to an inmate account

When learning how to add money to an inmate’s commissary account, you’ll want to carefully consider your available options. They usually include:

• Online platforms through secure providers, including Western Union
• Phone transfers via credit or debit card payments
• In-person cash payments at approved agent locations
• Mail options using money orders

Consider each one carefully, as there may be state- or facility-specific rules and partners. Verify the acceptable methods before you send funds.

1. Send money to an inmate online

Sending money online is one of the fastest and most convenient ways to support an inmate. With Western Union, you can send money to an inmate online, funding transfers with a credit card, debit card, or bank account.

Once you’ve chosen the correct facility and entered the inmate’s name and ID number, this method usually delivers the funds to the commissary account within one to two business days. Depending on the facility’s processing system, it may be faster than that.

Online transfers are secure and trackable. You’ll receive confirmation once the transaction is complete. This is a helpful option for those who want to make repeat payments quickly.

2. Send money by phone

For those without easy internet access, sending money by phone can be a practical alternative. Many providers (including Western Union partners) offer phone-based services that let you add money to an inmate account using a debit or credit card.

Here’s how it works:

• Call the approved number listed by the facility’s payment partner.
• You’ll need the recipient’s name, ID number, and facility name.
• Provide your payment information.
• Utilize tracking features to monitor your transfer.

You may have to pay service fees for phone transfers, and availability can vary by facility.

3. Send money by mail

Traditional methods, such as sending money by mail using a money order, are still available. Although they are typically slower than online or phone payments (usually several days or more), they can be helpful in certain cases when sending from a rural area or if you want a paper trail. It may also make sense if you lack a bank account, credit card, or convenient access to online services.

To send money to an inmate by mail:

• Purchase a money order in the exact amount you want to send.
• Make it payable to the correctional facility or inmate, depending on the guidelines.
• Include the inmate’s full name, ID number, and housing location if required.
• Mail it to the facility’s designated address.

Some federal and state prisons accept mail-in payments. To avoid delays or returned payments, follow specific formatting rules. Always confirm the mailing process with the facility before you send any funds.

4. Send money in person

Western Union offers a vast network of agent locations across the United States if you’d prefer to send cash in person. You can visit a participating store, provide inmate details, and pay with cash.

This is an especially helpful method for those without access to credit or bank accounts. In-person transfers are typically processed quickly. They’re also trackable with a receipt or Money Transfer Control Number (MTCN).

Before you send money to an inmate

Before you initiate any transfer to add money to an inmate account, double-check the details. Each facility may have its own rules surrounding:

• Accepted payment providers
• Maximum amounts per day or month
• Specific formatting for names and ID numbers
• Processing or service fees

That’s not the only concern, either. Think about how long it may take for the inmate to receive the money. Some payments post on the same day, while others can take several business days (especially when sent by mail).

Incorrect details or failure to follow instructions could result in rejected or delayed payments.

Send money with Western Union

Western Union offers a flexible, trusted way to support inmates. Whether you choose to send money online, by phone, in person, or by mail, we simplify the process and make it more convenient.

Knowing how to add money to an inmate’s account can make a real difference in someone’s daily life. Choose the method that best suits your needs, and count on Western Union to help you stay connected.

This blog is for general informational purposes only and doesn’t constitute legal advice. While we aim to provide accurate content, details may change over time. For specific concerns, it’s best to consult a legal or professional advisor.