Maintaining financial support for incarcerated loved ones is crucial for their well-being and rehabilitation. In correctional facilities, inmates require funds for essential commissary items, communication, and other necessities. Sending money to inmates ensures they can access these resources, fostering a more comfortable and supportive environment during their time of incarceration. It’s important to understand the specific procedures for how to Send Inmate Money, as cash is strictly prohibited within correctional facilities and considered contraband.
Previously, depositing funds directly at a Department of Corrections (DOC) cashier’s office was the primary method. However, to enhance convenience and accessibility, DOC has partnered with various money transfer agents. This innovative approach offers multiple secure and efficient ways to send inmate money, similar to wiring funds. Instead of in-person visits to DOC facilities, friends and family can now utilize phone, internet, walk-in locations, and kiosks to deposit funds into an inmate’s account.
Convenient Methods to Send Money to Inmates
Several options are available to send inmate money through authorized money transfer agents, providing flexibility and ease of use:
Send Money Online
The internet offers a swift and convenient method to send inmate money. Participating money transfer agents provide user-friendly websites where you can securely deposit funds using a credit or debit card. For added convenience, you can often access these agent websites directly through the DOC’s Inmate Lookup System, streamlining the process from locating an inmate to sending funds.
Send Money by Phone
For those preferring a more direct approach, sending money via phone is another viable option. Money transfer agents provide toll-free numbers staffed by representatives who can guide you through the deposit process. Similar to online transfers, phone deposits typically utilize credit or debit cards for payment.
Walk-In Money Transfers
If you prefer in-person transactions, walk-in offices of participating money transfer agents are readily available. These locations function much like traditional money wiring services, allowing you to deposit funds using credit cards, debit cards, or even cash in some instances. This method provides a tangible option for those who are more comfortable with face-to-face interactions.
Kiosk Deposits
For in-person deposits at DOC facilities, kiosks are available at select cashier offices. These self-service kiosks, operated by money transfer agents, offer another convenient way to send inmate money. Some kiosks accept cash payments exclusively, while others accommodate both cash and credit/debit cards, providing varied options based on your needs.
Understanding Transaction Fees
It’s important to note that all transactions processed through money transfer agents incur a service fee. These fees are variable and set by the individual agents, and the Department of Corrections does not receive any portion of these charges. If you wish to avoid fees, depositing funds directly at a DOC cashier’s window remains a fee-free option, although less convenient than the agent-based methods.
Essential Information for Money Transfers
To successfully send inmate money through any of these methods, you will need specific information about the recipient inmate. This typically includes the inmate’s full first and last name, as well as their book and case number. Having this information readily available will ensure a smooth and accurate transfer process.
Money Transfer Agent Contact Information
The DOC partners with multiple money transfer agents to provide options for sending funds. While DOC does not endorse any specific agent, two primary providers offer comprehensive services:
JPay: A widely recognized provider specializing in inmate financial services. JPay offers multiple avenues to send inmate money, including phone, internet, walk-in locations, and kiosks (cash-only). For more information or to initiate a transfer, visit JPay’s website or call their toll-free number at 800-574-JPAY.
Western Union: A globally recognized financial service provider also facilitating inmate money transfers. Western Union provides options to send inmate money via phone, internet, and walk-in locations. When using Western Union, you will need to use the City Code NYCITYDOC and the State Code NY to ensure proper routing of funds to the NYC DOC system. Visit Western Union’s website or call 800-325-6000 for assistance.
It’s advisable to check the official DOC website for the most up-to-date list of approved money transfer agents, as partnerships and available services may evolve.
Utilizing the Inmate Lookup System to Send Money
The DOC’s Person in Custody Lookup System provides a streamlined pathway to send inmate money directly from the inmate’s information page:
- Navigate to the official NYC DOC website: www.nyc.gov/doc.
- Locate the “Person in Custody Lookup” box, typically found on the right side of the homepage.
- Click on “Look Up Person in Custody” to access the search tool.
- Enter the inmate’s NYSID number or Book and Case Number. Alternatively, you can search by first and last name and date of birth (or age). This will lead you to the inmate’s profile page. If multiple inmates share the same name, you may need to select the correct individual from a list.
- Once on the inmate’s specific page, you will find a “Send Money” button. Click this button to proceed.
- You will be directed to an instruction page. Here, you can select your preferred money transfer agent by clicking on their logo. This will redirect you to the chosen agent’s website.
- Complete your money transfer by following the specific instructions provided on the money transfer agent’s website.
For walk-in locations of either JPay or Western Union, you can also contact their respective toll-free customer service numbers for assistance in finding the nearest office.
Sending money to inmates is now a more accessible and convenient process thanks to these partnerships with money transfer agents. By utilizing these various methods, you can efficiently and securely provide financial support to your incarcerated loved ones.
