Getting Your Money Back When You're Released: Debit Cards vs. Checks at Lawrence County Jail
Wondering how someone gets their commissary money back when they're released from Lawrence County Jail? It usually comes down to two options: a release debit card at Booking or a release check. Here's how each works, what it costs, and what to watch for—especially if a transfer is involved.
Commissary funds at Lawrence County Jail can only go to the person who owns the account - and only after they've been released. Want the balance paid to a family member or someone else? That requires a court order. Without one, the facility won't release money to a third party.
Debit at Booking
- ✓ Eligible balance: more than $3.95 left in the account at the time of release
- ✓ Option: transfer those funds to a MasterCard release debit card at Booking as you process out
- ✓ Cost: $3.95 per card funded at the booking kiosk
If the person being released has a larger balance, keep the per-card limit in mind. The maximum balance per release debit card is $9,500. If the account has more than $9,500 at release, the funds can be issued on multiple cards.
Speed is the main reason people choose the release debit card. Once it's swiped at the booking kiosk, funds are typically available within 10 minutes - helpful if someone needs cash right away after walking out.
- Ask for a check at release - If you prefer a check instead of a debit card, you’ll need to complete a “Release Authorization Form” as you exit Booking.
- Plan for processing and mailing - These forms are processed and checks are mailed each Tuesday.
- Account for the fee - There is a $2.00 check fee.
Heads up: If the person is transferring to another facility, skip the debit card. Not all facilities can move debit card funds into a new trust fund account - and you'll still pay the $3.95 per-card charge either way.
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