Why a Money Order Sent to NDOC Won't Be Available for 14 Days — and Faster Alternatives

NDOC puts all money orders and cashier's checks on hold the moment they arrive. Even after NDOC receives your payment, the funds won't be available to the offender for fourteen calendar days. If you're trying to cover something time-sensitive - phone time, commissary basics - that wait can feel endless. Plan accordingly.

NDOC offers two standard ways to send money. First, a Lockbox Deposit Coupon that you mail in with a cashier's check or money order. Second, an Access Corrections deposit using a credit or debit card (MasterCard or Visa) - you can also make this deposit by phone through Access Corrections.

Going the lockbox route? You'll need a Lockbox Deposit Coupon - it's required. These coupons can be printed from the NDOC website or obtained from the offender. NDOC puts the responsibility on the offender to send coupons to anyone who wants to deposit money. In practice, you may need to ask your loved one to mail you a coupon (or explain how to get one) before you can send a lockbox payment.

When speed matters, skip the mail. Electronic payments are the way to go. NDOC's standard options include credit/debit card deposits through Access Corrections, plus ViaPath/ConnectNetwork for AdvancePay accounts. Card-based deposits typically post faster than mailed payments - often immediately. That's a big deal if your loved one is waiting on phone time or day-to-day funds.

• ✓ Deposit online through ConnectNetwork
• ✓ Deposit using the ConnectNetwork mobile app
• ✓ Deposit by phone at 800-483-8314
• ✓ Deposit at a ViaPath kiosk (where available)
• ✓ Deposit at a local Western Union location
• ✓ Deposit by mail by sending a check or money order to: AdvancePay Service Dept., P.O. Box 911722, Denver, CO 80291-1722
• ✓ Create and fund a prepaid AdvancePay account (as an outside party) to pay for offender phone calls

1. Set up your AdvancePay account - Use ViaPath/ConnectNetwork’s automated phone system at 1-800-483-8314, or call 1-877-650-4249 to reach Customer Care.
2. Create the account online if you prefer - You can also set up an AdvancePay account through ConnectNetwork’s website.
3. Add funds using the channel that fits your timing - Online, app, and phone deposits are common go-to options when you’re trying to avoid mail delays.

Action Checklist

• ✓ If you need funds available quickly, use an electronic deposit option (like a credit/debit card deposit) instead of mailing a money order.
• ✓ Avoid relying on money orders/cashier’s checks sent directly to NDOC for urgent needs - those funds are held and won’t be available for 14 calendar days after receipt.
• ✓ If you’re funding phone calls, consider using ViaPath/ConnectNetwork AdvancePay channels rather than mail.

1. Choose the deposit route you’re using - For AdvancePay, you can fund through ConnectNetwork channels (including phone deposits).
2. Keep your confirmation details - Save your receipt or confirmation number from the payment method you used.
3. Use the right support line if you need help - For AdvancePay account setup/help, call 1-800-483-8314 (automated) or 1-877-650-4249 (Customer Care).

Not sure which method works best for you? Start with NDOC's guidance on sending money and compare it to your timeline. The bottom line: mailed money orders and cashier's checks won't be usable for fourteen calendar days after NDOC receives them. Card and phone deposits are designed to post much faster.