How to deposit funds, commissary, and payment options
Sending money to someone at Richmond Correctional Institution goes through North Carolina's approved third‑party payment vendors. Depending on the vendor, you can deposit online or through a mobile app, by phone, at walk‑in locations or kiosks, through certain cash‑deposit networks, or by mailing a money order. Whatever method you choose, enter the incarcerated person's full booked name and inmate/account number exactly as shown, and include your sender information so the payment posts without delays. Deposits go into the person's trust/commissary account for purchases and approved debits. Any remaining balance is returned when the person transfers or is released. At the state level, Correction Enterprises operates without General Assembly appropriations and transfers revenue back to the state's general fund and the Crime Victims Compensation fund.
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Sending money to someone at Richmond Correctional Institution boils down to two options: electronic deposits through ViaPath's ConnectNetwork, or mailing a money order for a trust deposit. Here's what you need to know about each method.
You can typically send money through the state’s approved third‑party vendors using online/mobile deposits, phone deposits, walk‑in locations or kiosks, certain cash‑deposit networks, or a mailed money order. Use the vendor method shown for the facility and follow that vendor’s instructions and forms.
Use the incarcerated person’s full booked name and inmate/account number exactly as shown, and include your sender information. Follow the vendor’s deposit form instructions closely to avoid delays or rejected payments.
Money deposited goes into the person’s trust/commissary account for purchases and approved debits while they’re in custody. Any remaining balance is returned when the person transfers or is released under standard state procedures.
Getting approved to visit at Richmond Correctional Institution starts with a visitor application. Once you understand what to attach and what might trigger a denial, the process becomes much easier.
Phone and messaging services at Richmond Correctional Institution run through electronic tablets provided by ViaPath/GTL, the vendor contracted by the North Carolina Department of Adult Correction. These tablets handle phone calls, texts, digitized mail, and access to educational and entertainment content. If tablets aren't available, people can also use electronic kiosks and wall phones.
Your first visit to Richmond Correctional Institution takes some setup, but it's straightforward once you know the steps: get approved, book your appointment, and arrive ready for screening.
