How to send money and use JPay (fees, video visitation, and the approved-visitor rule)
The biggest
Before you try to send a deposit, make sure you’re on the recipient’s approved visitor list. Georgia’s rule is straightforward: you must be on an offender’s approved visitor list to use any payment method. If you aren’t approved yet, the payment can be stopped before it ever reaches them - so it’s worth confirming this step first.
Primary Methods
- ✓ Walk-in deposits through MoneyGram (up to $5,000) - $4.95 fee per transaction
- ✓ Lockbox/money order deposits - FREE
- ✓ Mail-in money order using a free, printable voucher - allow up to 2 weeks for mail and processing
- ✓ JPay deposits by mobile app, online, or by phone (IVR/live operator) - internet transfer fees depend on the amount you send ($3.50 / $5.00 / $6.50 per transaction)
Note: The cheapest option isn’t always the fastest. Fees and processing time vary by method, so pick based on whether you need the money available quickly or you’re trying to minimize costs.
If you use JPay online for a smaller deposit, the fee can be a big part of the total. For internet funds transfers from $0.01 to $20.00, JPay charges a $3.50 fee per transaction.
For mid-size deposits, the fee steps up. Internet funds transfers from $20.01 to $100.00 cost $5.00 per transaction.
For larger online deposits, the fee increases again. Internet funds transfers from $100.01 to $300.00 have a $6.50 fee per transaction.
Tip: If you’re trying to keep fees down, pay attention to the tier cutoffs. Fewer, larger deposits can mean fewer per-transaction fees than sending several small transfers.
JPay also lists a set price for video visits. A 30-minute video visitation session costs $3.95.
If you’re using JPay e-mail, you’ll need stamps. Electronic stamps for e-mail cost $0.35 each.
If online payments feel confusing - or you’re worried about making a mistake - you can still get help. A live agent is available by phone 24/7 to assist with sending money to an offender.
Checklist Before Sending
- ✓ Confirm you’re on the recipient’s approved visitor list before you try any payment method
- ✓ If you’re using JPay online, choose an amount with the fee tiers in mind ($0.01–$20.00 has a $3.50 fee; $20.01–$100.00 has a $5.00 fee; $100.01–$300.00 has a $6.50 fee)
- ✓ Keep your receipt or confirmation details until the funds show up
If you’re comparing options, MoneyGram walk-in deposits (up to $5,000) cost $4.95 per transaction, while lockbox/money order deposits are free. There’s also a mail-in route: you can create a free money order voucher to print and mail, but plan ahead - mail and processing can take up to two weeks.
Find an Inmate at Gilmer County Detention Center, GA
Search for a loved one and send messages and photos in minutes.
