How to Send Money to Someone at Montford Unit (And Why You Must Be on Their Approved List)

At Montford Unit (TDCJ), knowing someone's name and TDCJ number isn't enough to send them money. Since September 1, 2020, TDCJ only accepts deposits from people on the inmate's approved visitor list or their Inmate Telephone List. If you're not on one of those lists, your deposit gets blocked. This policy exists for unit safety and security. What it means for you: confirm you're approved before trying to send funds. This is especially important if you're a new contact, recently changed your phone number, or you're helping from out of state and aren't sure of your status. Already an approved visitor or on the phone list? You can use the standard Inmate Trust Fund deposit options. Not approved yet? Don't bother trying a different deposit method - get your status verified first so your money actually reaches the person you're sending it to.

TDCJ's Trust Fund guidance is direct: don't send funds to inmates you don't know, and don't send money "as a favor" for someone else. If you're being pressured to send money - or someone wants you to do it in a way that feels off - that's a red flag. Suspect extortion? Report it to the Unit Warden or the Office of the Inspector General. You don't have to handle it yourself or keep engaging with someone trying to force a payment.

Not sure if you're approved? Contact Montford Unit directly to verify your status before attempting a deposit. The unit phone list can help you find the right number. This step is also worth taking before you travel for a visit. TDCJ's online visitation information updates once daily on weekdays and multiple times per day on visitation days - so last-minute changes might not show up. A quick call to the unit for final confirmation can save you a wasted trip and prevent deposit problems tied to your approval status.