How to Send Money to an Inmate at Estes Unit: Deposit Options, Timing, and Sender Rules
Before sending money to someone at the Estes Unit, confirm you're authorized to make deposits. Then pick the method that works for your timeline: mail-in money orders and cashier's checks, or the monthly ACH checking-account debit program. Here's what you need to know about each option—including timing rules that can delay when funds become available.
At the Estes Unit, you can't deposit money just because you know someone. Since September 1, 2020, only people on the inmate's approved visitor list or telephone list can add funds to their Trust Fund account. Not on either list? Get added first - otherwise your deposit won't go through.
Sending a money order or cashier's check? You'll need a deposit slip. The inmate can provide this to you. Without it, expect delays and extra back-and-forth - not ideal when you're trying to help quickly.
The ACH automatic debit program works well if you want a predictable monthly deposit. Your checking account is debited around the 5th of each month, and funds hit the inmate's Trust Fund account around the 10th. Two requirements for enrollment: include a voided check, and be on the inmate's approved visitation or telephone list. Keep the timing gap in mind. There's a built-in processing window between debit and credit. If your loved one needs money by a specific date, plan accordingly - especially early in the month.
Timing warning: Deposits of $500.00 or more - plus certain checks like insurance, payroll, and estate disbursements - are held for 14 days before the inmate can access the funds.
Need to check if your deposit arrived? Trust Fund staff can confirm receipt. But they won't share the inmate's balance or account activity with you - even if you sent the money. That's standard policy. Expect a simple "yes, received" rather than account details.
Quick Steps Method Timeline
- ✓ Confirm you’re on the inmate’s approved visitor list or the inmate telephone list before you send anything.
- ✓ If you’re mailing a money order or cashier’s check, get the required deposit slip from the inmate and include it.
- ✓ If you want a steady monthly deposit, use the ACH automatic debit option: include a voided check to enroll, and plan for the debit around the 5th and the credit around the 10th.
Plan ahead: ACH deposits follow a set month-to-month schedule, and larger single deposits ($500+) can be held 14 days before the inmate can use the money.
- Ask the inmate to confirm your status - have them check whether you’re on their approved visitor list or telephone list.
- Get added before you send - if you’re not listed, handle that first so your deposit attempt isn’t blocked.
- Then choose your deposit method - once you’re approved, gather what you need (like the deposit slip for mail-in payments or a voided check for ACH enrollment).
Tracking a payment? Ask Trust Fund staff whether the deposit was received. They can answer that, but they won't discuss the inmate's balance or account activity with anyone except the inmate.
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