Sending money to incarcerated loved ones can be a crucial way to support their needs while they are in detention. This guide provides you with comprehensive information on how to deposit money into an inmate account, ensuring a smooth and efficient process. We focus on the procedures at facilities like the Clark County Detention Center, outlining approved methods, fees, and essential details to consider.
Understanding Inmate Trust Accounts
When an individual is incarcerated, they often have a trust account established on their behalf by the detention facility. This account functions as a bank account, allowing inmates to receive funds from outside sources. These funds can then be used by inmates to purchase commissary items, such as hygiene products, snacks, stationery, and sometimes phone or email credits, depending on the facility’s regulations.
It’s important to understand that detention centers have strict policies regarding inmate accounts to maintain security and order. Therefore, knowing the correct procedures for depositing money is vital to ensure your funds are successfully transferred to the intended inmate.
Methods to Deposit Money to an Inmate Account
There are typically several methods available for depositing money into an inmate’s account. The Clark County Detention Center, as outlined in the original guidelines, offers a few primary options, which are common across many facilities, though specific details may vary.
1. Online Deposits via Credit or Debit Card
The fastest and often most convenient way to send money is online using a credit or debit card through a facility-approved vendor like TouchPay.
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Using TouchPay: TouchPay Direct is a common service provider specializing in inmate deposits. You can access their services online at www.touchpaydirect.com or via phone at 1-866-232-1899.
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Required Information: To make an online deposit, you will generally need the following information:
- Facility Name and/or Facility Number: For Clark County Detention Center, the Facility # is 289101. Always verify the specific facility details.
- Inmate’s Full Name: Ensure correct spelling to avoid errors.
- Inmate ID Number: This is a unique identifier assigned to the inmate.
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Transaction Processing Time: Funds deposited via TouchPay are usually posted to the inmate’s account within 24 hours, often much faster, sometimes within just 15 minutes.
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Fees: Be aware of transaction fees associated with using credit or debit cards online. TouchPay, for example, charges a tiered fee structure that includes a flat fee plus a percentage of the deposit amount, as detailed below:
| Transaction Amount | Credit Card Transaction Fees |
|---|---|
| $0 – $20 | $2.95, plus 3.5% of deposit |
| $20.01 – $100 | $3.95, plus 3.5% of deposit |
| $100.01 – $200 | $4.95, plus 3.5% of deposit |
It is crucial to double-check all information before submitting your online deposit, as facilities like Clark County Detention Center are not responsible for funds deposited into incorrect accounts due to errors made by the sender.
2. Cash Deposits via Kiosk
Many detention facilities, including Clark County Detention Center, provide on-site kiosks where you can deposit cash directly into an inmate’s account.
- Kiosk Location: At Clark County Detention Center, the kiosk is located in the detention center lobby.
- Benefits: Kiosks offer an immediate deposit option using cash.
- Fees: Kiosk deposits also incur transaction fees, which are typically structured differently from credit/debit card fees. For TouchPay kiosks at Clark County Detention Center, the “Cash Only Transaction Fees” are as follows:
| Transaction Amount | Cash Only Transaction Fees |
|---|---|
| $0 – $20 | $2.95 Only |
| $20.01 – $100 | $3.95 Only |
| $100.01 – $200 | $4.95 Only |
Kiosks are a convenient option for those who prefer using cash or do not have access to credit or debit cards.
3. Mailing Funds
Another accepted method, although generally slower, is sending funds via mail. This method usually involves sending a money order, cashier’s check, or specific types of checks to the detention facility.
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Mailing Address: Ensure you use the correct mailing address. For Clark County Detention Center, the address effective from June 8, 2023, is:
Inmate Name – Inmate ID Number
Clark County Detention Center
PO Box 43059
Las Vegas, NV 89116 -
Acceptable Forms of Payment by Mail:
- Money Orders: Must be issued in U.S. currency and made payable to “CCDC Inmate Trust Account.”
- Cashier’s Checks: Generally accepted under similar conditions as money orders.
- Certain Checks: Some facilities accept checks, but personal checks and two-party checks are typically NOT accepted. Checks from foreign banks are also not acceptable.
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Important Considerations for Mailed Funds:
- Hold Times: Checks and money orders sent by mail are often subject to a hold, typically around 10 business days, before the funds are available in the inmate’s account. Factor this delay into your planning.
- Memo Line: Always write the inmate’s name and ID number on the memo line of any check or money order.
- Prohibited Items: Never send cash through the mail. Facilities strongly advise against this due to security risks. Outdated or altered checks or money orders will also be rejected.
Important Notices and Policies Regarding Inmate Funds
Detention facilities have specific rules and policies regarding inmate funds. It’s crucial to be aware of these to avoid issues:
- No Refunds: Once funds are deposited into an inmate’s account, refunds are generally not given. Ensure you are depositing funds for the correct inmate and intended purpose.
- Information Restrictions: Due to privacy and security regulations, detention centers will not release specific information about an inmate’s trust account balance to individuals outside the facility without a subpoena. Inquiries about account balances must come from the inmate directly.
- Money Releases: Inmates may be able to release funds from their accounts under certain conditions. Policies vary depending on whether the inmate is in permanent housing or booking. Generally, releases to individuals require valid government-issued photo ID for verification. Inmates cannot transfer funds to other inmates’ accounts.
- Account Transfers: If an inmate is transferred to another facility, any remaining funds in their account are usually transferred to the new jail or prison.
Frequently Asked Questions About Inmate Deposits
Here are answers to some common questions regarding depositing money into inmate accounts:
Q: How can I confirm that funds I sent were posted to an inmate’s account?
A: Contact Inmate Accounts at the detention facility. For Clark County Detention Center, you can email [email protected] or call (702) 671-3900. Have your receipt or money order number, amount, and date of transaction ready.
Q: What if I can’t find an inmate on TouchPay’s website?
A: Ensure you are using the correct website: www.touchpaydirect.com. Try entering the inmate’s ID number without leading zeros.
Q: Can funds be transferred between an inmate’s phone account and commissary account?
A: Generally, no. Funds sent to third-party phone service providers like Securus are managed separately. Only inmates can sometimes request transfers from their commissary account to their phone account, depending on facility rules.
Q: What happens to inmate funds upon release?
A: Former inmates can retrieve funds left in their account. At Clark County Detention Center, you can visit in person with valid photo ID or mail a notarized letter to request your funds.
Conclusion
Depositing money into an inmate’s account is a straightforward process when you understand the approved methods and policies of the detention facility. By using online services like TouchPay, cash kiosks, or mail, you can provide financial support to inmates. Always verify facility-specific guidelines and double-check all information to ensure your deposit is successful and reaches the intended recipient. For any uncertainties or specific questions, contacting the detention center’s Inmate Accounts department directly is always recommended.
