Introduction
Putting money on an inmate’s books is a process where money can be sent to an incarcerated individual for various reasons. The money can be used to purchase items from the commissary, pay for telephone calls or other services, or even to provide financial support to the inmate while they are in prison. Knowing how to put money on an inmate’s books is important for family members or friends who want to send money to an incarcerated individual.
Use an Online Payment Platform
One of the easiest and most convenient ways to put money on an inmate’s books is to use an online payment platform. There are many platforms available that allow users to easily set up an account and transfer funds to an inmate’s commissary account. Some of the benefits of using an online payment platform include:
- Convenience – users can transfer funds quickly and easily without having to visit the prison facility in person.
- Security – most online payment platforms have secure payment systems that protect user information and help ensure the safety of the transaction.
- Flexibility – users can transfer funds from anywhere at any time.
To set up an online payment system, users will need to create an account with the chosen platform. Once the account is created, users can link their bank account, credit card, or debit card to the account and start transferring funds to an inmate’s commissary account. Most online payment platforms charge a fee for each transaction.
Visit the Prison Facility in Person
Another option for putting money on an inmate’s books is to visit the prison facility in person. Visiting the prison facility allows users to deposit funds directly into the inmate’s account and ensures that the funds are received quickly. Some of the advantages of visiting the prison facility in person include:
- Speed – funds can be deposited directly into the inmate’s account and are usually available within 24 hours.
- No fees – there are typically no fees associated with depositing funds in person.
- Privacy – users can keep their financial information private when making deposits in person.
When visiting the prison facility in person, users should make sure to bring along valid identification and proof of residence. They should also be prepared to fill out paperwork and provide information about the inmate they are depositing money for. All deposits must be made in cash, and there are usually limits as to how much money can be deposited at one time.
Send a Money Order
Sending a money order is another way to put money on an inmate’s books. Money orders can be purchased at most banks, post offices, or grocery stores and are a safe and secure way to send funds. Some of the advantages of sending a money order include:
- Security – money orders are often more secure than cash because they cannot be lost or stolen.
- Convenience – money orders can be purchased at most locations and can be sent through the mail.
- No fees – there are usually no fees associated with sending a money order.
To send a money order, users should first purchase a money order from a store or bank. They should then fill out the money order and make it payable to the inmate’s name or inmate number. The money order should then be mailed to the prison facility. It is important to note that money orders can take several weeks to arrive at the prison facility, so users should plan accordingly.
Use a Credit Card
Using a credit card is another option for putting money on an inmate’s books. Many prisons have systems in place that allow users to make payments using their credit cards. Some of the advantages of using a credit card include:
- Convenience – users can make payments quickly and easily without having to visit the prison facility in person.
- Security – most credit card payments are secure and protected against fraud.
- Rewards – some credit card companies offer rewards points or other incentives for making payments with their cards.
To make a credit card payment, users should contact the prison facility to find out if they accept credit card payments. If the prison does accept credit card payments, users should provide their credit card information and the amount they wish to pay. Most credit card payments come with a fee, so users should be aware of any additional charges before making a payment.
Set Up an Automated Payment System
Setting up an automated payment system is another way to put money on an inmate’s books. Automated payment systems allow users to set up recurring payments so that funds are sent to the inmate’s account on a regular basis. Some of the benefits of setting up an automated payment system include:
- Convenience – users can set up a payment system that runs automatically without having to remember to make payments each month.
- Security – automated payment systems are secure and protected against fraud.
- Flexibility – users can modify the payment schedule or cancel the payment system at any time.
To set up an automated payment system, users should contact the prison facility to find out if they accept automatic payments. If the prison does accept automatic payments, users should provide their bank account information and the amount they wish to pay. Most automated payment systems require users to set up an account with the chosen platform and may charge a fee for each transaction.
Use a Third-Party Service Provider
Using a third-party service provider is another way to put money on an inmate’s books. Third-party service providers are companies that specialize in providing services for inmates and their families. These companies often provide services such as managing inmate accounts, transferring funds, and providing access to other resources. Some of the benefits of using a third-party service provider include:
- Convenience – third-party service providers offer a variety of services that make it easy to manage an inmate’s account.
- Security – most third-party service providers have secure payment systems and use encryption to protect user information.
- Flexibility – users can choose from a variety of payment methods and can manage their accounts from anywhere.
To use a third-party service provider, users should contact the chosen company to set up an account. Once the account is set up, users can link their bank account, credit card, or debit card to the account and start transferring funds to an inmate’s account. Most third-party service providers charge a fee for each transaction.
Conclusion
Putting money on an inmate’s books can be done in a variety of ways. Options include using an online payment platform, visiting the prison facility in person, sending a money order, using a credit card, setting up an automated payment system, and using a third-party service provider. Before choosing a payment method, users should research the different options to determine which one best meets their needs. By understanding the different options, users can make sure that their money is sent securely and quickly to an inmate’s account.