Putting money “on the books” for someone in jail allows them to purchase essential commissary items, stay connected, and maintain a degree of comfort during their incarceration. If you’re looking for a convenient and fast way to deposit funds, online methods are your best option. This guide will walk you through how to put money on someone’s books in jail online, ensuring your funds reach your loved one quickly and securely.
Understanding Inmate Accounts and Commissary
When we talk about “putting money on someone’s books” in jail, we’re referring to depositing funds into an inmate trust account. This account acts like a bank account for incarcerated individuals, allowing them to access money for commissary purchases. The commissary is essentially a store within the jail that offers items not provided by the facility, such as snacks, hygiene products, stationery, and sometimes even entertainment items. Having funds in their account can significantly improve an inmate’s quality of life while they are incarcerated.
Online Methods to Deposit Funds
Several online services specialize in facilitating inmate fund deposits, making it easier than ever to support someone financially while they are in jail. These platforms are generally secure and offer a quick way to transfer money. Here are some common online methods:
TouchPay Direct Online
TouchPay Direct is a widely used service for depositing money into inmate accounts, and it’s often directly partnered with correctional facilities. To use TouchPay Direct online, you will typically need the following:
- Facility Location Number: This is a unique number identifying the specific jail or correctional facility. For Sacramento County Main Jail, the number is 257501. Always verify this number for the correct facility.
- Inmate’s Name: The full legal name of the inmate.
- Inmate’s X-reference Number: This is the inmate’s identification number assigned by the jail.
Once you have this information, you can visit the TouchPay Direct website and create an account or log in if you are a returning user. You will then enter the facility location number, inmate’s name, and X-reference number to locate the correct inmate account. From there, you can choose your payment method, such as a credit card or debit card, and complete the transaction. Keep in mind that fees are typically associated with online deposit services.
TouchPay Direct by Phone
If you prefer to deposit funds over the phone, TouchPay Direct also offers a phone service. You can call their dedicated phone line at 1-866-232-1899. Be prepared to provide the same information as the online method: Facility Location Number, Inmate’s Name, and Inmate’s X-reference Number. The phone service allows you to make deposits using credit or debit cards, and similar fees will apply.
TouchPay Retail Locations
For those who prefer to pay in cash but still utilize the TouchPay system, you can find TouchPay retail locations. These locations are often in convenient places like grocery stores or check cashing businesses. You can find a TouchPay retail location near you by visiting their website and using their locator tool. At a retail location, you can make a cash deposit to the inmate’s account, again using the Facility Location Number, Inmate’s Name, and X-reference Number.
Other Deposit Methods (For Completeness)
While the focus is on online methods, it’s helpful to be aware of other options that may be available, although they might not be as convenient as online deposits.
TouchPay Kiosk in Jail Lobby
Many jails, including the Sacramento County Main Jail, have TouchPay kiosks located in the lobby. These kiosks allow you to deposit cash, credit cards, or debit cards directly into an inmate’s account. This method is suitable if you are visiting the jail in person, but it is important to note that the Main Jail Cashier’s Office is NOT open to the public, so the kiosk might be the only on-site option.
Money Orders by Mail
In some cases, you can send money orders via mail to deposit funds. For Sacramento County facilities, money orders should be made payable to the inmate and include their X-reference number and housing location. These should be mailed to:
Rio Cosumnes Correctional Center
Attn: IWF Office
12500 Bruceville Rd
Elk Grove, CA 95757
Crucially, do not send personal checks, government-issued checks, or tax refund checks. Only cashier’s checks and money orders are accepted. Also, ensure you include a return address on the envelope, as any other items sent to this address will be returned to sender.
Key Information to Have Ready
Regardless of the method you choose, having the following information readily available will make the deposit process smoother:
- Correct Facility Location Number: Double-check this number for the specific jail.
- Accurate Inmate Name: Use the inmate’s full legal name.
- Valid Inmate X-reference Number: This is essential for ensuring the funds reach the correct account.
Important Rules and Considerations
- Deposit Deadlines: For commissary orders, deposits often need to be in the inmate’s account by a specific time, such as Sunday morning at 7:00 am for Sacramento County facilities. Always confirm these deadlines, as they can change.
- Disciplinary Restrictions: Inmates under disciplinary restrictions may lose commissary privileges, meaning they cannot use deposited funds until their privileges are reinstated.
- Money Releases: Be aware that money releases for inmates are typically not available on weekends or holidays.
- Inmate Release Funds: When an inmate is released, any remaining funds in their account are usually issued on a prepaid debit card, not in cash or checks.
Conclusion
Putting money on someone’s books in jail online is a straightforward and efficient way to provide financial support. Services like TouchPay Direct offer multiple online and phone options, making the process accessible from anywhere. By using the correct facility information and inmate details, you can ensure your funds are deposited securely and promptly, helping your loved one access essential commissary items during their time in jail. Remember to always verify the specific procedures and regulations of the relevant correctional facility for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
