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Send Commissary at California Institution for Women.

How to deposit funds, commissary, and payment options

Overview

California Institution for Women (CIW) points visitors to Securus/ViaPath for accounts, communications, and certain money-related tasks. New to Securus? The facility's visitation portal includes a "Claim Account" link to help you get set up. You don't need an online account for free phone calls, but you do need one for video calls and electronic messaging. To send money, confirm the incarcerated person's full name and ID first, then use an accepted deposit method (online portal, phone, kiosk, or mail where allowed). Expect vendor fees and posting times to vary. Never mail cash, and keep in mind that restitution or other deductions can reduce what's actually available to the person inside.

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Quick Facts

  • The facility’s visitation portal provides a “Claim Account” link for new Securus users.
  • Unused ViaPath account balances can be requested for refund through ViaPath’s website.
  • Securus says an online account is not required for free phone calls but is required for video calls and electronic messaging.
  • Do not mail cash; use vendor-approved methods and confirm posting times before relying on a deposit.

Send Commissary Guides

What you’ll lose when CIW switches tablets — and how to request refunds

CDCR is switching its telecom and tablet services from ViaPath to Securus. The California Department of Technology awarded the new contract to Securus Technologies, LLC on February 21, 2025, and CDCR set up an interim agreement with ViaPath to keep services running during the transition. At California Institution for Women (CIW), the tablet exchange window was scheduled for February 4–6 — that's when ViaPath tablets get swapped out for new Securus tablets.

Common Questions

Do I need a Securus account to add money or use messaging at California Institution for Women?

Yes, if you want video calls or electronic messaging, you should claim or create a Securus account through CIW’s visitation portal. Securus says an online account is not required for free phone calls, but it is required for video and messaging.

How can I request a refund for an unused ViaPath balance?

Request a refund for an unused ViaPath balance through ViaPath’s website, following the vendor guidance CIW provides.

Can I mail cash or a personal check to someone at CIW?

Never mail cash. Use vendor-approved deposit options, and check CIW's vendor instructions to see whether mail-based options (like money orders) are accepted and how long deposits take to post.

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