Ensuring your incarcerated loved one has access to funds can significantly improve their quality of life while they are in jail. Inmates use these funds to purchase commissary items, including food, hygiene products, and writing supplies, which can make their time more comfortable. This guide, brought to you by money-central.com, your trusted source for financial expertise, will provide you with a detailed walkthrough on how to put money on inmates’ books at correctional facilities.
Methods to Deposit Funds into an Inmate’s Account
Putting money on inmates’ books is a straightforward process with several convenient options available. Correctional facilities like the Sacramento County Main Jail offer multiple methods to deposit funds, catering to different preferences and circumstances. Here are the primary ways you can add money to an inmate’s account:
1. TouchPay Kiosk Deposits
For those who prefer in-person transactions, TouchPay Kiosks are available in the Main Jail lobby. These kiosks accept cash, credit cards, and debit cards, providing an immediate way to deposit funds. Using a kiosk is user-friendly and allows for quick transactions. Keep in mind that fees are typically associated with kiosk transactions.
To use the TouchPay Kiosk, you will need the following information:
- Main Jail Facility Location Number: 257501 (This number is specific to the Sacramento County Main Jail)
- Inmate’s Full Name: Ensure you have the correct spelling of the inmate’s first and last name.
- Inmate’s X-reference Number: This is the unique identification number assigned to the inmate.
2. TouchPay Direct: Online, Phone, and Retail Locations
TouchPay Direct offers versatile options for depositing funds remotely. This service allows you to put money on inmates’ books via:
- Online Portal: Visit the TouchPay Direct website at https://www.gtlfsonlinepay.com/portal/ to make deposits from your computer or mobile device. This is a convenient option for 24/7 access.
- Phone: Call TouchPay Direct at 1-866-232-1899 to deposit funds over the phone. This is helpful for those who prefer verbal guidance through the process.
- Retail Locations: TouchPay has partnered with various retail locations. You can find a nearby location by visiting https://cfp_locator.gtlfsonlinepay.com/. This option allows you to deposit cash at participating retail stores.
Similar to kiosk deposits, using TouchPay Direct services will incur transaction fees. Ensure you have the Facility Location Number, Inmate’s Name, and X-reference number readily available when using any TouchPay Direct method.
3. Mailing Money Orders or Cashier’s Checks
Another traditional method to put money on inmates’ books is by mailing a money order or cashier’s check. This option is suitable for those who prefer not to use electronic methods or kiosks.
Important Guidelines for Mailing Funds:
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Payable To: Money orders and cashier’s checks must be made payable to the inmate/detainee.
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Required Information: Clearly write the inmate’s X-reference number and housing location on the money order or cashier’s check.
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Prohibited Items: Do NOT send personal checks, government-issued checks, or state/federal tax refund checks. These will not be accepted and will be returned to sender.
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Endorsement: Do not endorse the back of the money order or cashier’s check.
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Mailing Address: Mail to the following address, specifically for the Rio Cosumnes Correctional Center, which handles funds for both facilities:
Rio Cosumnes Correctional Center
Attn: IWF Office
12500 Bruceville Rd
Elk Grove, CA 95757 -
Return Address: Ensure you include your full name and address as the return address on the envelope. For example:
Your Full Name
1234 Your Street
Sacramento, CA 95814
Note: Only deposits are accepted at this mailing address. Any other correspondence or items will be returned. Money orders are typically deposited into the inmate’s account within 24 hours of receipt.
Key Considerations When Putting Money on Inmates’ Books
Before you deposit funds, it’s important to be aware of a few crucial details:
Commissary Order Deadline
To ensure funds are available for commissary orders, deposits must be in the inmate’s Trust Account before 7:00 am Sunday morning for both the Main Jail and RCCC. This deadline is subject to change without notice, so it’s always best to deposit funds well in advance of this time.
Inmate Discipline and Privileges
Inmates under disciplinary restrictions may lose certain privileges, including the ability to purchase commissary items. If an inmate is on discipline, they may not be able to access the funds you deposit until their privileges are reinstated.
Money Releases and Inmate Release Funds
Keep in mind that money releases are not processed on weekends or holidays. When an inmate is released from the Sacramento County Main Jail or the Rio Cosumnes Correctional Center, any funds in their account will be issued on a NUMI MasterCard Debit Card. Released inmates do not receive cash or checks upon release. Inmates transferring to other agencies will receive transfer checks according to Sheriff’s Office policy. This policy is subject to change.
Conclusion
Putting money on inmates’ books is a vital way to support incarcerated individuals, enabling them to purchase essential commissary items. By understanding the available methods – TouchPay Kiosks, TouchPay Direct, and mailing money orders – and adhering to the guidelines, you can ensure your deposits are processed smoothly and efficiently. Always verify the most current procedures and deadlines with the correctional facility, and for any questions, you can contact the IWF Trust Office staff at [email protected]. This guide from money-central.com aims to provide you with the most helpful and up-to-date information for managing inmate funds.
