Compare the $25 Visitation Background Check Fee: Vendors & Typical Transaction Costs

Every adult applying for in-person, phone, or video visits must pay a one-time, non-refundable $25 background check fee. This covers the Department's criminal background check, which runs on everyone who applies for visitation or phone call privileges. The "one-time" part is key - you're not paying $25 every time you schedule a visit. But "non-refundable" matters too. If you decide not to visit later or your application doesn't move forward, that fee stays paid.

Timing trips people up. Your background check fee and any required supporting documents must be received within 30 days of your application date. Miss that window, and your application is considered incomplete - it won't be processed.

You can pay through any of three approved vendors: Keefe, JPay, or GTL. Each offers several payment channels - storefront/walk-up locations, phone, mobile app, or online. If you're trying to keep costs down, the channel matters as much as the vendor. Some methods carry higher transaction fees than others, even though the underlying $25 background check fee stays the same.

Two things to know before you submit payment. First, all visitation background check payments must be made electronically - no mailing cash or checks. Second, have your Application Visitor ID ready when you pay. Don't wait: the fee and any required documents must be received within 30 days of your application date, or your application won't be processed.

The $25 background check fee is fixed, but transaction fees vary by vendor and payment method. For online payments: Keefe charges no fee, JPay charges $0.95, and GTL charges $1.00. That difference looks small, but it adds up when multiple adults in your family are applying. Choosing a lower-fee method keeps your total closer to the required $25 per person.

Practical Tip

• ✓ Use an internet or mobile option when it fits your situation - Keefe’s listed internet transaction example shows no fee, while other vendors may add a small transaction charge.
• ✓ If minimizing cost is your top priority, be cautious with storefront/walk-up payments; transaction fees can be higher depending on the vendor and method.
• ✓ Have your Application Visitor ID ready before you start the payment.
• ✓ Don’t miss the clock: the fee (and any required supporting documents) must be received within 30 days of your application date or the application won’t be processed.