How to Send Money to an Inmate at Johnston Unit (Who can send, accepted forms, and holds)
Sending money to someone in prison should be straightforward, not a headache of returned payments or unexpected delays. Here's what you need to know about Johnston Unit trust fund rules: who can send funds, what payment types work, and when to expect a 14-day hold.
Who you are matters when depositing to Johnston Unit trust funds. Since September 1, 2020, only people on the inmate's approved visitor list or Inmate Telephone List can send money. Check with the inmate first to make sure you're on one of those lists. Deposits from anyone else can be blocked.
Accepted Types
- ✓ Money order (must include a deposit slip obtained from the inmate)
- ✓ Cashier’s check (must include a deposit slip obtained from the inmate)
Warning: Cash and personal checks are not accepted for trust fund deposits and will be returned to the sender.
Sending a larger amount? Plan for a wait. Any single deposit of $500.00 or more is held for 14 days before the inmate can access it.
The 14-day hold can also kick in based on check type, not just the amount. Insurance checks, company checks, payroll checks, and estate disbursements all trigger the hold. Keep this in mind if you're trying to help with something time-sensitive.
- ✓ If timing matters, avoid single deposits of $500.00 or more when you can, since those funds are held 14 days before access is authorized.
- ✓ Be cautious using insurance, company, payroll, or estate checks (or similar disbursements), since they also trigger a 14-day hold.
- ✓ For money orders or cashier’s checks, include the required deposit slip (the inmate can provide it), or your deposit may not be processed as intended.
- ✓ Build the hold time into your expectations so you are not surprised if the money is not available right away.
Reminder: Don't send trust fund deposits to the inmate's facility. And don't send personal mail or other items to the Inmate Trust Fund address. Mixing these up is a common reason things get delayed or rejected.
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