How to Buy Phone Cards for Inmates: McCracken County's Tuesday-Only System

At McCracken County Jail, phone cards are sold to inmates through their inmate accounts on Tuesdays only. You're not buying a card whenever you stop by - you're making sure money is available in the inmate's account so the card can be issued on Tuesday.

Here's where timing matters. The money must be in the inmate's account by 12:00 PM (noon) on Tuesday for them to receive a phone card that day. Miss the cutoff? They'll have to wait until the next Tuesday cycle.

Phone cards come in $10 and $20 denominations. When you're adding money, deposit amounts that line up with those options.

1. Use the kiosk in the front lobby - This is one of the approved ways to deposit money for an inmate, and it’s a practical option when you’re trying to meet the Tuesday 12:00 PM deadline.
2. Deposit through CareACell - CareACell is also an approved way for families to put money on an inmate’s account, which can help you get funds in place ahead of Tuesday.
3. Mail a postal money order (no Western Union) - If you mail funds, it must be a postal money order. Western Union isn’t accepted, so don’t rely on it if you’re trying to have money on the account by Tuesday at noon.

Quick Checklist

• ✓ Remember phone cards are issued on Tuesdays only.
• ✓ Make sure money is on the inmate’s account by 12:00 PM Tuesday to get a card that day.
• ✓ Plan for $10 or $20 phone-card denominations.
• ✓ Bring exact amounts - the vending machine does not make change.
• ✓ Choose a deposit method that fits your timing: kiosk in the front lobby, CareACell, or mail a postal money order.
• ✓ Don’t use Western Union (not accepted for mailed funds).