How to Send Money to Someone at Kyle Unit (Who Is Allowed to Do It)

At Kyle Unit and all other TDCJ facilities, a rule that took effect September 1, 2020 limits who can send money. You must be on the inmate's Approved Visitation List or their Telephone List. Not on either? Your deposit will likely be rejected - even if you have the correct name and TDCJ number.

Many families skip sending cash altogether and use eCommDirect to buy commissary items directly. You place the order yourself, and the purchase value counts toward a quarterly spending cap. It's a straightforward way to make sure your person gets what they need.

• ✓ January–March: up to $70 in eCommDirect purchases
• ✓ April–June: up to $70 in eCommDirect purchases
• ✓ July–September: up to $70 in eCommDirect purchases
• ✓ October–December: up to $95 in eCommDirect purchases (Holiday Spend)
• ✓ Newly received inmates: not eligible for eCommDirect purchases until the next calendar quarter

Fees Timing

• ✓ eCommDirect purchase fee: $3.75 per transaction
• ✓ Deposit fee: $2.50 plus 2.25% of the deposit amount
• ✓ If you make a deposit and a purchase at the same time: $3.75 plus 2.25% of the deposit

eCommDirect orders typically arrive within five business days after TDCJ processes them. That's the standard timeline, but security issues or staffing shortages can cause delays. If you need items to arrive by a specific date, order early.

1. Confirm they’re actually at Kyle Unit and eligible for visits - Before you try to send money (or make plans around a purchase), verify the inmate is assigned to Kyle Unit and has visitation privileges.
2. Make sure you’re on an approved list - Deposits are only allowed from people on the inmate’s Approved Visitation List or the inmate’s Telephone List. If you’re not sure which list you’re on, get that cleared up first.
3. Call the unit for final confirmation before you travel - TDCJ recommends calling the unit before making the trip, since details can change and you don’t want to waste a drive if something isn’t in place.