How to Send Money to Someone in a Pennsylvania Prison (JPay, MoneyGram, Money Orders)
Getting money onto someone's account in the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections is pretty straightforward once you pick the right method. Here are the key limits and rules that trip people up most often, especially with card deposits, MoneyGram walk-ins, and money orders.
If you're using JPay to send funds to someone in a Pennsylvania state prison, your name will be attached to the deposit. JPay provides the Department of Corrections with a sender name for every transaction, so anonymous deposits aren't an option through this platform.
Credit card deposits through JPay have a strict pacing limit: only $300 per card every 72 hours. Try to send more than that on the same card within the 72-hour window and the transaction will be blocked.
Note: Multiple cards may be used, but each card is still limited to $300 every 72 hours.
Sending money in person through MoneyGram? The maximum is $5,000 per transaction. Individual stores may have their own procedures, so it's worth confirming what your local MoneyGram location requires before heading over.
Money orders are a solid option if you'd rather not use a card. Just watch the cap: each money order maxes out at $999.99, so larger amounts need to be split across multiple orders.
Here's a nice perk: JPay states there is no fee for sending money through money orders in Pennsylvania. If you're trying to avoid add-on costs, this method is worth considering.
Need help with the form? Call JPay at 800-574-5729 for more information or assistance completing the money order form.
Dealing with a larger sum? The Department of Corrections does not cap the total amount that can sit in an inmate's account. Per-transaction limits still apply (like the $300 per card or $999.99 per money order), but there's no overall maximum set by DOC on the account itself.
- ✓ For estate funds, use a bank check made payable to the inmate.
- ✓ Do not send a personal check. Personal checks are not accepted.
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