What You Need to Know Before Sending Money: TDCJ's Warning About Inmate Scams

TDCJ's warning is simple: don't send funds to offenders you don't know, and don't send money as a favor for offenders you do know. Scams can be convincing. They often sound urgent or play on your sympathy. But once the money's gone, it's hard to get back. If something feels off about a request, trust that instinct - stop and verify first.

1. Ask the offender for a deposit slip - If you’re in contact, this is one direct way to get the correct form.
2. Request deposit slips by mail - Send a self-addressed, stamped envelope to: Inmate Trust Fund, PO Box 60, Huntsville, TX 77342-0060.

1. Fill out the deposit slip completely - Use the deposit slip you received so the funds can be matched to the right account.
2. Use an approved payment type - Send a money order or cashier’s check made payable to “Inmate Trust Fund for Offender Name and Number.”
3. Mail the deposit and slip to the Trust Fund - Send the completed deposit slip and the deposit to: Inmate Trust Fund, PO Box 60, Huntsville, TX 77342-0060.

1. Decide on a set monthly amount - TDCJ’s monthly checking account debit (ACH) is a free service that pulls a set amount from your personal checking account.
2. Know the timing - The debit transaction occurs on or around the 5th day of each month, with the credit to the offender’s account on or around the 10th.
3. Submit the required paperwork - Complete an ACH authorization form, attach a voided check for the account to be debited, and submit both to the Inmate Trust Fund.

This brief highlights TDCJ's warning and gives you a clear next step when something doesn't feel right. It can't cover every sketchy scenario or manipulative request. When you have questions about trust fund deposits - or you want to confirm you're using the right process - call the Inmate Trust Fund at 936-438-8990 before sending anything.

• ✓ Get the official deposit slip (request it from the offender, or send a self-addressed stamped envelope to Inmate Trust Fund, PO Box 60, Huntsville, TX 77342-0060).
• ✓ If you mail a deposit, include the completed deposit slip and send it to Inmate Trust Fund, PO Box 60, Huntsville, TX 77342-0060.
• ✓ When in doubt, call the Inmate Trust Fund at 936-438-8990 to confirm instructions before sending money.