How to deposit funds, commissary, and payment options
Tensas Parish Detention has a JPAY kiosk in the Visitor Processing Area where you can deposit money to an incarcerated person's account in person. Many Louisiana facilities also support deposits through a vendor website or app, by phone, through MoneyGram, or by mailed money order, but the exact methods vary by facility and vendor. To avoid delays, follow the vendor or facility instructions exactly. Include the incarcerated person's state, facility name, and inmate ID or CCN, and complete all forms clearly. If you mail funds, never send cash. Use a money order and confirm the correct payee name and mailing address first. Mailed money orders are processed by the vendor and may take time to post. Larger deposits may receive additional review.
Search for a loved one and send messages and photos in minutes.
To send money by money order to someone at Tensas Parish Detention under Louisiana DOC rules, make the money order payable to JPay and mail it with a completed Money Order Deposit Slip. Every field needs to be filled out and easy to read—missing or illegible information will delay processing.
The easiest option is the JPAY kiosk in the Visitor Processing Area. Other methods (vendor website or app, phone, MoneyGram, or mailed money orders) may also be available. Check the facility page or JPAY for accepted options, site codes, limits, and posting times.
Possibly. Facilities commonly accept money orders by mail (not cash), but confirm the correct payee and mailing address with the vendor or facility before sending. Mailed money orders are processed by the vendor and can take several days to post.
You'll need the inmate's state, facility name, and inmate ID or CCN. Follow the vendor or facility form instructions exactly, fill everything out clearly, and include any requested contact information to help prevent delays.
DWCC is strict about visitor clothing. The fastest way to lose your visit is showing up in something they don't allow. Here are the most common problem items, plus what happens if you arrive dressed wrong.
If your loved one is connected to Tensas Parish Detention and you're trying to understand how Louisiana's prison system works, start with the Louisiana Department of Public Safety & Corrections Informational Handbook for Friends & Families of People in Prison. It's free, written in plain language, and covers the basics that matter most to families—so you can get oriented before spending time or money heading down the wrong path.
Trying to stay connected with someone at this facility? Start with what you can do in person during visitation and who to contact for supervision-related questions.
