How to deposit funds, commissary, and payment options
San Joaquin Jail directs online deposits through SmartDeposit. If you need help with an account or transaction, know that jail staff will only share details about funds you personally deposited. They won't disclose an inmate's purchases or spending history. Before sending money, confirm the incarcerated person's full name and booking or facility ID, and double-check that you've selected the correct facility and vendor. Deposit options can include an online or mobile portal, phone deposits, lobby kiosks, or U.S. Postal money orders. Review the San Joaquin Jail instructions or the SmartDeposit portal for approved methods and any fees. Vendor fees and electronic posting times can affect when funds become available.
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Putting money on someone's inmate account at San Joaquin Jail comes down to three options: two cash kiosk locations or an online deposit through SmartDeposit.
San Joaquin Jail references SmartDeposit as the online vendor for inmate deposits.
No. Staff will only provide information about funds you personally deposited, and they will not disclose an inmate’s purchases or spending history.
Double-check that you have the inmate's full name and booking or facility ID correct, and use the deposit method recommended in the SmartDeposit portal. Also check for estimated posting times and any third-party fees, since both can affect when money becomes available.
- Sign up at least 30 minutes before the next available visit (first-come, first-served). - Keep your group to 3 people max per visit — this count includes children and babies. - Plan for a strict 45-minute visit (no exceptions). - Don’t overstay — it can cost you visiting privileges. - Once your visit starts, don’t exit the visiting room or the visit will be terminated. - Remember the limits: 2 visits per week (Monday–Sunday), and only 1 visit per day even if you go to a different San Joaquin County Jail location. - Leave your phone behind — cellular phones are prohibited in visiting. - No photos during visits.
Your first visit to San Joaquin Jail goes smoother when you know the rules that trip people up at the door. Use this checklist to see what to bring, what to leave behind, and what can end your visit early.
Bringing a child to visit someone at San Joaquin Jail is possible, but the paperwork requirements are strict. Show up without the right original documents and you'll be turned away at the door.
