Sending Money to Someone at Central Prison (NC): All Available Methods, Fees, and Timing

North Carolina's Department of Adult Correction accepts several deposit methods. You can send money online through ConnectNetwork using a credit or debit card, or call the department's toll-free lines to make a phone deposit. Money orders work too, but they must go through TouchPay with the department deposit slip - Central Prison won't process them directly. Cash deposits are available through Western Union for TRUST payments. Fees vary by method and amount, so check the department's published fees table before you send.

Online deposits through ConnectNetwork.com are the fastest option for most families. Use a credit or debit card - no mailing required, no waiting on paper processing.

Already have a ConnectNetwork account? Use the same login - you don't need a new one for Central Prison. One thing to watch: ConnectNetwork/GTL accounts become inactive after 180 consecutive days without activity, and funds may be subject to forfeiture. For refund questions related to this policy, call GTL customer service at 866-516-0115.

Phone deposits work with a credit or debit card. The department lists these toll-free numbers: AdvancePay at 800-483-8314, and Trust at 888-428-1845. PIN Debit deposits also use 888-428-1845.

Money orders require a mail-in process. Send them with the department deposit slip to TouchPay - Central Prison doesn't accept or process money orders directly. Mailing one to the prison will only delay things.

For TRUST deposits by money order, mail it (with the required deposit slip) to: TouchPay Holdings, LLC, PO Box 174, Houston, TX 77001-0174.

Timing depends on the method you choose. For TouchPay money order deposits, the department states funds will be available to the offender within ten business days, though TouchPay will make every effort to post the funds sooner.

Fees depend on both the deposit method and the amount you're sending. The department publishes a fees table breaking down costs by deposit range (for example, $20.00–$99.00) and method. Check it before you submit payment so you're not surprised at checkout.

If you’re making a cash deposit through Western Union for a TRUST payment, use the payment code: NCDAC TRUST.

Here's a rule that catches people off guard: only approved visitors can deposit funds to an offender's account. If your deposit isn't going through, check your visitor approval status first.

Practical Checklist

• ✓ If speed matters, use ConnectNetwork.com with a credit or debit card.
• ✓ If you’re mailing a money order through TouchPay, plan for up to ten business days for funds to be available (even if it sometimes posts sooner).
• ✓ Before you pay, compare your deposit amount and method against the department’s published fees table so you can choose the cheapest option.
• ✓ Don’t mail money orders to the prison - money orders must go to TouchPay with the department deposit slip.