How to Send Money to an Inmate at PNM: Requirements and Restrictions

PNM only accepts outside funds sent through the U.S. Mail. Dropping off money in person or using other delivery methods won't work - the facility won't process it.

For most families, that means sending a money order. PNM requires this format, with only a few exceptions: approved vendor refunds, court settlements, bond refunds from United States or New Mexico courts, or funds transferred from county detention centers. If you're putting spending money on someone's account, stick with a money order.

Proper labeling gets your payment to the right person. Write the inmate's full name and their five-digit Corrections number on the money order. Missing or incorrect information can delay posting or send funds to the wrong account.

• ✓ Write the inmate’s full name on the money order
• ✓ Include the inmate’s five-digit Corrections number
• ✓ Double-check spelling and the number before you mail it

Here's something that catches people off guard: you have to be on the inmate's approved visitor list to send them money. If you're not approved, the money order may be rejected.

Getting on that list requires submitting a Visitor Application. And it's not a one-time thing - approval expires every two years. Someone who was approved before may need to reapply to stay eligible.

Double-check the mailing address and current instructions for inmate funds before you send anything. Address details and processing rules can change, and mailing to the wrong place means delays.

1. Check the official NMCD/facility information - look for the most current instructions for mailing inmate funds.
2. Call the facility to confirm - ask where money orders should be mailed and what needs to be written on them.
3. Ask the inmate to verify with their caseworker - they can often confirm the current mail handling instructions on the inside.