Comparing Money Transfer Fees for Iowa DOC: Access Corrections vs JPay (and Western Union notes)
Want to keep deposit costs down in the Iowa DOC system? Compare the fee ranges for Access Corrections and JPay, then check the live total before you hit
Send Photos & Mail at 2nd Judicial District
How to send messages, photos, and packages
Overview
Communication and money transfers in the 2nd Judicial District run through third-party vendors, so you'll need to set up an account and add funds before using certain services. Money goes to commissary accounts through Access Corrections, JPay, or Western Union—each has a phone deposit option with different fees. Access Corrections charges as low as $4.49 for phone deposits, JPay's fees vary by amount, and Western Union accepts credit or debit cards over the phone. For calls, messaging, and video visits, you'll use vendor portals. Inmates place outbound calls (you can't call in), and they'll need to add your number to an approved contact list. Messaging and video options usually require purchased credits. Confirm the current approved vendors and rules before relying on any one service.
Find an Inmate at 2nd Judicial District
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Quick Facts
- Funds may be sent electronically to commissary accounts using Access Corrections, JPay, or Western Union.
- Access Corrections provides a phone deposit option at 1(866)345-1884 with fees listed as low as $4.49.
- JPay accepts phone deposits at 1-800-574-5729 with fees that vary from about $4.95 to $11.95 depending on amount.
- Western Union supports over‑the‑phone deposits by calling 1-800-634-3422 and selecting option 2; a credit or debit card is required.
- Money orders and cashier’s checks cannot be accepted by drop‑off and must be mailed to the central processing address.
Common Questions
How do I add money to an inmate's commissary account in the 2nd Judicial District?
You can add funds electronically through Access Corrections, JPay, or Western Union. To deposit by phone, call Access Corrections at 1(866)345-1884, JPay at 1-800-574-5729, or Western Union at 1-800-634-3422 (option 2); fees vary by vendor and amount.
Can an inmate call me from the 2nd Judicial District?
Yes—an inmate can place outbound calls through the facility phone system, but you can’t call into the facility to reach them. They’ll need to add your number to their approved calling list first.
Are video visits or messaging available for inmates in the 2nd Judicial District?
Video visits and messaging are often handled through vendor portals, which usually require you to create an account and may use credits for messages or visit time. Check the current approved vendors and rules before you schedule a visit or buy credits.
Can I drop off a money order or cashier's check for an inmate in the 2nd Judicial District (IA)?
No. Money orders and cashier’s checks are no longer accepted by drop‑off and must be mailed to the central processing address.
How is personal mail processed for inmates in Iowa facilities?
Personal mail is usually routed through a third‑party processor that opens it, scans it, and delivers an electronic copy to the facility. Originals are typically kept briefly and then destroyed.
Do legal or medical documents need to be sent differently than regular mail?
Yes. Legal and medical (privileged) mail should be clearly marked and sent directly to the facility following its instructions so it receives privileged handling.
Other Guides for 2nd Judicial District
Comparing Money Transfer Fees for Iowa DOC: Access Corrections vs JPay (with Western Union notes)
Want to keep costs down when sending money to someone in the Iowa Department of Corrections? Here's the quick comparison: Access Corrections online fees start at $3.49, while JPay online fees range from $3.95 to $10.95 depending on your deposit amount. Both accept Visa- or MasterCard-branded credit or debit cards, so the real difference comes down to the fee shown for your specific amount.
How Long Does It Take for Commissary Money to Show Up in Iowa DOC (Third Judicial District)?
Timing a commissary deposit? How long it takes depends on how you send it. Here's what Iowa DOC says to expect for the most common options—and what to do if the money doesn't show up when you expect.
