Supporting a loved one who is currently incarcerated often involves more than just phone calls and letters. One of the most practical ways to help is by ensuring they have access to the jail canteen, also known as the commissary. The commissary is a store within the correctional facility where inmates can purchase essential items that are not provided by the jail, such as specific hygiene products, snacks, stationery, and even small electronics.
Navigating the process of adding money to an inmate’s account or placing an order can feel overwhelming, especially with the various rules and third-party platforms involved. This guide provides a clear, step-by-step approach to understanding how jail canteens work, how to deposit funds, and how to ensure your loved one receives the items they need for their daily comfort and well-being.
Understanding the Jail Commissary System
A jail commissary functions much like a local convenience store, but with strict security protocols. Most correctional facilities do not manage these stores themselves; instead, they partner with private vendors to handle the inventory, ordering, and delivery. Because inmates are not allowed to carry physical cash, all transactions are handled through a dedicated trust account.
When an inmate is booked into a facility, a trust account is usually created in their name. Any money they had on them at the time of arrest is deposited into this account. Family and friends can then add to this balance so the inmate can make purchases. These funds are used not only for snacks but also for essential communication services like phone credits and messaging stamps.
How to Add Money to an Inmate’s Account
Before any items can be ordered, the inmate must have a positive balance in their trust account. There are several common ways to deposit money, though the specific method will depend on the facility’s chosen vendor. Most jails use platforms like Access Corrections, JPay, or TouchPay.
Online Deposits
Online deposits are the fastest and most popular method. You will typically need to create an account on the vendor’s website. You will need the inmate’s full legal name and their Department of Corrections (DOC) or booking number. Once registered, you can use a credit or debit card to transfer funds instantly.
Phone Deposits
If you prefer not to use a website, most vendors offer a toll-free number where you can make a deposit over the phone. These services are usually available 24/7. Be prepared to provide the same inmate identification details and your payment information to an automated system or a customer service representative.
Kiosk Deposits
Many jail lobbies have physical kiosks that look like ATMs. These machines allow you to deposit cash or use a card directly at the facility. This is a great option if you live near the jail and want to avoid some of the higher fees associated with online transfers.
Money Orders
For those who prefer traditional methods, some facilities still accept money orders sent through the mail. This is often the slowest method, as it requires manual processing by the jail’s mailroom and accounting department. Always check the specific facility’s mailing rules, as many require the inmate’s ID number to be written clearly on the money order.
Step-by-Step Guide to Ordering Commissary Items
Once the funds are available in the inmate’s account, the ordering process can begin. Depending on the facility, either the inmate will place the order themselves using a kiosk or tablet, or you may be able to place a “care package” order directly from an authorized website.
1. Verify the Official Vendor
Every jail has a contract with a specific commissary provider. Visit the official website of the county jail or state prison to find out which company they use. Using an unauthorized third party can lead to lost money or undelivered goods.
2. Create a Secure Account
Visit the vendor’s website and sign up for an account. You will likely need to verify your identity. This is a security measure to prevent fraud and ensure that funds are coming from a legitimate source.
3. Select the Inmate
Search for your loved one using their inmate ID number. It is crucial to double-check this number, as many inmates may share similar names. Selecting the wrong profile will result in the funds or items being sent to the wrong person, and these transactions are rarely refundable.
4. Browse the Catalog
If the facility allows family-placed orders (often called “quarterly packages” or “care packages”), you can browse an online catalog. Items are typically categorized into food, hygiene, clothing, and electronics. Add the desired items to your cart while keeping an eye on the facility’s weight or quantity limits.
5. Complete the Purchase
Review your cart and proceed to checkout. You will receive a confirmation number and usually an email receipt. The items will then be packaged by the vendor and shipped directly to the jail for distribution during the next scheduled delivery day.
Common Items Available in a Jail Canteen
The selection of items available in a commissary can vary wildly based on the security level of the facility. However, most canteens offer a standard set of goods designed to make life more manageable for inmates.
- Food and Snacks: Instant noodles, coffee, tea, dried meats, crackers, and candy are staples. These provide a supplement to the standard meals provided by the kitchen.
- Hygiene Products: While jails provide basic soap, many inmates prefer to buy name-brand shampoo, deodorant, toothpaste, and shaving cream.
- Correspondence Supplies: Envelopes, stamps, paper, and pens are essential for inmates to stay in touch with their legal counsel and family.
- Clothing: Inmates can often purchase extra socks, underwear, thermal shirts, and shower shoes.
- Electronics: Some facilities allow the purchase of small radios, MP3 players, or tablets, which provide a vital source of entertainment and education.
Important Rules and Spending Limits
It is important to remember that the commissary system is highly regulated. Most facilities have a weekly spending limit for each inmate, often ranging from $50 to $150. This is done to prevent the hoarding of items and to maintain a level of equality among the population.
Additionally, there are strict rules regarding what can be sent. For example, you cannot send items from home or from an unapproved retailer like Amazon. Everything must come through the authorized commissary vendor to ensure that no contraband enters the facility. If an inmate is under disciplinary restriction, their commissary privileges may be temporarily suspended, meaning they cannot receive orders even if you have already paid for them.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If you encounter problems while trying to add money or order items, the first step is to contact the vendor’s customer service department. Common issues include “Inmate Not Found” errors, which usually occur if the inmate has recently been transferred to a different facility or if their ID number was entered incorrectly.
If a package is not delivered, it may be because the inmate was moved or the items were deemed restricted after the order was placed. In most cases, the vendor will issue a refund to your account, but it may take several business days to process. Always keep your receipts and transaction numbers until you have confirmed with your loved one that they received their items.
Final Thoughts on Supporting Inmates
Providing access to commissary items is a meaningful way to support someone through a difficult time. By following the official procedures and using authorized vendors, you can ensure that your financial support reaches your loved one safely and efficiently. Remember to always check the specific rules of the facility, as policies can change without much notice. For more tips on navigating legal systems or helping loved ones in various situations, feel free to explore our other helpful guides on daily life and practical solutions.