How to Send Money to Someone in a Texas Prison: Approved Deposit Methods and Rules

Since September 1, 2020, TDCJ limits who can deposit money into an inmate's trust fund account. Only people on the inmate's approved visitor list or Inmate Telephone List can send deposits. This security measure ensures deposits come from people who already have an approved connection to the inmate.

1. Get a money order or cashier’s check - this is one of the approved ways to send funds.
2. Make it payable correctly - write it payable to the “Inmate Trust Fund.”
3. Add the offender’s name and number - include the offender’s name and TDCJ number on the money order/cashier’s check.
4. Include a completed deposit slip - mail the deposit together with the filled-out slip.
5. Mail it to the Inmate Trust Fund (not the unit) - send it to: Inmate Trust Fund, PO Box 60, Huntsville, TX 77342-0060. Don’t mail trust fund deposits to the inmate’s facility address.

Ach Monthly Debit

• ✓ Complete the ACH/monthly debit authorization form
• ✓ Attach a voided check from the checking account that will be debited
• ✓ Mail the completed form and voided check to the Inmate Trust Fund
• ✓ Plan for timing: the debit happens on or around the 5th of the month, and the funds typically credit the inmate’s account on or around the 10th

TDCJ lists additional approved deposit options through its Commissary and Trust Fund resources, including vendor-based channels. Stick to methods TDCJ specifically lists as approved - using unapproved services can lead to delays or rejected transactions.

Questions about deposits or the eCommDirect service? Call the Inmate Trust Fund at 936-438-8990. If you're unsure whether your deposit method will be accepted, confirm before sending anything.