How to deposit funds, commissary, and payment options
Sending money to someone at West County Jail is straightforward once you use the right payment type. The jail doesn't accept cash or personal checks—they'll be returned to the sender. For mailed funds, use a money order or cashier's check (traveler's checks work too) made out to the Office of the Sheriff. Write the inmate's name and booking number on the front. If a money order or cashier's check isn't filled out correctly, it gets sealed in the inmate's property and returned to the sender upon release. Prefer a credit or debit card? Card deposits are accepted only through lobby kiosks (Martinez and West County), by phone at 1-866-0460, or online at www.smartdeposit.com. Double-check the name and booking number before sending anything.
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Getting money onto someone's account should be simple—but small paperwork mistakes can slow things down. Here's what West County Jail accepts and how to send funds without delays.
Mail a money order or cashier's check made out to the Office of the Sheriff with the inmate's name and booking number on the front. For credit or debit card deposits, use a lobby kiosk (Martinez or West County), call 1-866-0460, or visit www.smartdeposit.com. Double-check the inmate's full name and booking number first.
No. West County Jail does not accept cash or personal checks, and they will be returned to the sender. Use a money order or cashier’s check instead and include the inmate’s name and booking number.
If a money order or cashier’s check isn’t completed correctly, it will be sealed in the inmate’s property. If the inmate is released, that incorrectly completed payment will be returned to the sender.
Visiting someone in jail can feel overwhelming the first time—especially when you're trying to figure out scheduling. At West County Jail, a few rules matter most: who schedules the visit, when everyone needs to show up, and what can get a visit canceled.
If your loved one — or you, as a visitor — needs an ADA accommodation at a Contra Costa County jail, you can submit a formal request or complaint. The process is straightforward: provide the right details and send it to the correct office within 14 days.
Planning a visit to West County Detention Facility? Knowing the exact time blocks and arrival cutoffs will save you a wasted trip. Here's the schedule and a quick checklist to get you through the door.
