How to Send Money to Someone at Mass Treatment Center: Methods, Processing Times, and Holds
Sending money to someone at Mass Treatment Center comes down to one question: do you need it there fast, or can you wait on mail processing and holds? Here's what to expect for each method.
The preferred method at Mass Treatment Center is Access Corrections / Secure Deposits. You can deposit online, through the Access Corrections app, or by phone - whatever works best for you.
Access Corrections accepts credit or debit card deposits 24/7. Prefer to handle it by phone? Call their toll-free line at 1-866-345-1884 - bilingual representatives are available around the clock.
Note: Deposits must be issued in U.S. funds. Access Corrections only accepts money orders/checks drawn from U.S. financial institutions and only accepts U.S.-based addresses (not international addresses).
Mailing a check or money order? Build in extra time. Once received, checks and money orders are processed within 48 hours - but that excludes weekends and holidays. Something that arrives Friday afternoon may not move until Monday.
Processing doesn't mean the money is available right away. All check funds are subject to a 10-day hold after processing before they're sent to the DOC for crediting to the inmate's account.
You may be able to drop off a check or money order in person. Some institutions have a lobby box labeled "Inmate Funds" for this purpose. Call ahead to confirm this option is available and where to find the box.
- ✓ Make the check or money order out to the inmate
- ✓ Include the inmate’s commitment number
The biggest surprise for families? The hold period on check deposits. All check funds are subject to a 10-day hold after processing before being sent to the DOC for crediting. Even a quickly processed deposit won't show up as usable funds right away.
There's also a more specific rule: money orders over $200 and personal checks can be placed on a 7 business day hold. Since hold policies can overlap depending on payment type and submission method, I recommend confirming the current hold time with the facility before sending a larger money order or any personal check.
Watch for this: Dual payee checks aren’t accepted and will be returned to the sender.
Need the money there fast? Access Corrections / Secure Deposits is your best option. Credit and debit card deposits go through 24/7, so you can submit immediately without waiting on mail.
Double-check that everything is in U.S. funds before you send. Access Corrections only accepts money orders and checks drawn from U.S. financial institutions, and requires U.S.-based addresses. International addresses or non-U.S. instruments will cause problems.
Planning to drop off a check or money order in person? Call first. A quick verification call can save you a wasted trip.
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