How to Send Money to Facility

If you're sending money to cover copies or other materials from hearing records, expect a possible fee. The Department may charge a fee to cover material costs, but the specifics (the exact amount, accepted payment methods, who to make payment out to, and where to send it) aren't included in the available information. Confirm all of those details before sending any payment.

Steps to Follow

• ✓ Contact the facility or the Department office handling the hearing record request and ask whether a materials fee will apply.
• ✓ Describe exactly what you are requesting (for example, copies from hearing records) so they can tell you what material costs may be involved.
• ✓ Ask for the total cost and whether there are any limits on what can be copied or provided.
• ✓ Confirm who the payment should be made payable to and what payment methods are accepted.
• ✓ Get the mailing or drop-off instructions for payment, and include any required identifying information with your request.
• ✓ Keep a copy of what you submit (your request details and proof of payment) in case you need to follow up.

Before sending money, nail down the details that aren't spelled out in the available policy language. Ask whether a fee applies to your specific hearing-record materials request, how much it is, and what it covers (per page, per packet, or a flat materials cost). You'll also want to verify the accepted payment method, who the payment should be made out to, and where to send it. It's worth asking whether the Department offers any waiver or reduced-fee option for certain requesters, too. Getting these answers up front saves you from delays, rejected payments, or having to start over.