jpay-fees-explained-ga

JPay Fees Explained: What It Really Costs to Stay Connected (Georgia DOC)

JPay costs seem small at checkout but add up fast. Here's what Georgia DOC families actually pay—so you can plan before you send.

2 min read gdc.georgia.gov
JPay Fees Explained: What It Really Costs to Stay Connected (Georgia DOC)

Sending $0.01–$20.00 online? You'll pay a $3.50 fee per transaction. That flat charge doesn't scale - so if you're depositing small amounts frequently, a big chunk never reaches your loved one's account. Larger transfers have higher fees, which makes it worth thinking about cost per transaction, not just the amount you're sending.

Walk-in deposits through MoneyGram cost $4.95 per transaction, with transfers accepted up to $5,000. It's convenient when you need to fund an account fast. Just factor that $4.95 into your total every time.

Lockbox and money order deposits are FREE. If avoiding fees matters more than speed, this is your best option - more of your money goes to your loved one instead of transaction charges.

Video visits run $3.95 for 30 minutes. That sounds reasonable until you realize how quickly visits become routine. Multiply by how many sessions you'll realistically schedule each week or month - the cost adds up fast.

Messaging fees are smaller but persistent. Sending an e-mail costs $0.35 per electronic stamp. Attachments (up to 3) add another $1.05. A quick check-in stays cheap. Regular emails with photos? Those shift your monthly total more than you'd expect.

Tip: A $3.95 video visit plus a $0.35 message plus $1.05 in attachments - none of it feels like much alone. Do it regularly, and you've got a predictable monthly bill. Sketch out a simple weekly plan so the total doesn't catch you off guard.

JPay Fees Explained: What It Really Costs to Stay Connected (Georgia DOC)

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  • Compare deposit methods by “fee per transaction,” not just convenience - online internet transfers (like the $3.50 fee on $0.01–$20.00) and walk-in/MoneyGram deposits ($4.95 per transaction) can add up quickly if you use them often.
  • Consolidate when you can - sending fewer, larger deposits usually means paying fewer transaction fees than sending small amounts repeatedly.
  • Check the current Georgia DOC/JPay fee table before you hit submit - fees are listed by transfer type, and you want to confirm you’re choosing the method that fits your budget.

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