Sending money to an inmate’s commissary account allows them to purchase essential items like hygiene products, snacks, and writing materials. This guide focuses on how to deposit funds online through the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) eCommDirect program.
Using eCommDirect for Online Inmate Commissary Deposits
The TDCJ uses eCommDirect, a secure online platform, for friends and family to send money to eligible inmates. This system allows for both commissary purchases and direct deposits to an inmate’s trust fund.
Eligibility Requirements for eCommDirect
Before attempting to send money, ensure the inmate is eligible. Ineligible inmates include:
- Those in General Population and State Jail levels 4 and 5.
- Inmates in Administrative Segregation levels 2, 3, and transition.
- Death Row levels 2 and 3 inmates.
- Inmates with certain medical conditions.
- Inmates on commissary restriction.
- Newly received inmates (eligible the following quarter).
- Inmates in facilities under full or partial lockdown.
Important Note: Eligibility is determined by TDCJ, not commissary staff. Inmates can request an I-60 form to check their eCommDirect status.
Steps to Deposit Money Online via eCommDirect
-
Access the eCommDirect Website: Visit the official TDCJ eCommDirect website (https://tdcj-ecommdirect.portal.texas.gov/).
-
Sender Information: Enter your first and last name accurately, as it must match the approved sender list.
-
Inmate Information: Provide the inmate’s TDCJ number and last name.
-
Add Funds: Select the “Deposit” option and enter the desired amount. You can also purchase commissary items directly.
-
Payment: Proceed to checkout and pay using a Visa, Discover, or MasterCard.
-
Confirmation: Print or save your confirmation receipt for your records.
Transaction Fees and Limits with eCommDirect
- Deposit Fee: $2.50 plus 2.25% of the deposit amount.
- Purchase Fee: $3.75 per transaction.
- Combined Fee: $3.75 plus 2.25% of the deposit amount.
- Quarterly Spending Limits:
- January – March: $70.00
- April – June: $70.00
- July – September: $70.00
- October – December: $95.00 (Holiday Spend)
Important Considerations:
- Delivery Time: Commissary purchases typically arrive within five business days, but security or staffing issues can cause delays. Deposits are usually processed within two business days.
- Substitutions: Out-of-stock items may be substituted.
- Website Timeout: The eCommDirect website has a 30-minute inactivity timeout. If you are timed out, you cannot make another transaction until the next business day. The “back” button can also trigger a timeout.
- Approved Sender List: To use eCommDirect, you must be on the inmate’s Approved Visitation List or Approved Phone List. Contact Securus to be added to the phone list.
Contacting eCommDirect Support
For questions or assistance, contact the TDCJ eCommDirect department:
- Phone: 936-438-8990
- Email: [email protected]
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of how to put money on an inmate’s commissary online in Texas. Always refer to the official TDCJ eCommDirect website for the most up-to-date information and policies.
