How to Send Money for Commissary to Butte-Silver Bow Detention Center (and how the money is used)

Money deposited at Butte-Silver Bow Detention Center doesn't go straight to commissary. The facility applies funds to required charges first - specifically the $25 booking fee and any medical copay fees. Once those are covered, the remaining balance becomes available for commissary purchases.

Commissary money goes beyond snacks and personal items. Revenue from the commissary program funds shared resources inside the facility - things like TVs, cable, newspapers, board games, and supplies for indigent inmates. So while your deposit supports your loved one directly, the program also benefits the broader population.

Mailing money? The facility only accepts two forms: cash or a cashier's check. Other payment types aren't listed as accepted, so stick to what they specify to avoid delays.

• ✓ Send commissary funds only as cash or a cashier’s check
• ✓ If you can, use a cashier’s check (it’s easier to track than cash)
• ✓ Don’t mail other payment types if they aren’t listed as accepted for commissary funds
• ✓ Keep your mailing receipt or any proof of purchase for your records

Need to confirm details - like where to send funds or how to address the envelope? Call the detention center at 406-497-1050. A quick phone call can save you from having money returned or delayed.

1. Call to confirm the current mailing instructions - Ask where to send commissary funds and how they want it addressed before you mail anything.
2. Choose a cashier’s check when you can - The facility accepts cash or cashier’s check; a cashier’s check is typically easier to document and track.
3. Save proof of what you sent - Keep the receipt from the cashier’s check purchase and/or your mailing receipt.
4. Plan for fees to come out first - Funds are applied to the booking fee (including the $25 booking fee) and medical copays before the remaining balance can be used for commissary.
5. Mail only the money - nothing extra - Don’t include letters or other items with commissary funds, since letters sent that way won’t be accepted and will be destroyed.

A few common questions aren't covered in public information - like whether online deposits are available, which third-party vendors (if any) the facility uses, the exact mailing address for every situation, or how long mailed money takes to post. For those specifics, call the detention center directly before you send anything.