How to send money: deposit options, commissary purchases, and funds handling
Deposit options depend on where the person is housed, so start with the jail or prison's own instructions. Del Norte County Jail, for example, lists three options: an online portal (Access Corrections), deposits by phone, or in person at a lobby kiosk. The phone deposit number is 866-394-0490 for people who can't use the online portal or are having issues.
Once funds are on someone's account, that money pays for commissary orders in some county systems. San Diego County, for example, explains that people in custody can buy commissary items delivered to their housing unit using money from their account. San Diego County also notes that money deposits can be made through its sheriff commissary e-commerce site, where gift packs are available too.
If your loved one is in CDCR and you're dealing with the ViaPath to Securus transition, families can request refunds for unused ViaPath balances through the ViaPath call center. Incarcerated balances will be refunded to trust accounts automatically. Keep in mind that funds sent to an incarcerated person may be subject to court-ordered restitution.
Common Questions
Q
Why do I see different communications platforms for the same prison?
CDCR says it is transitioning providers, with an interim agreement with ViaPath to avoid service interruptions while the move to Securus is completed. During that transition, CDCR notes that families may need to use ViaPath until a specific institution transitions, then switch to Securus once it does.
Q
How can I add money to an inmate's account if I do not have online access?
Some facilities offer phone deposits and in-person kiosks as alternatives to online payment. For example, Del Norte County Jail lists deposits by phone or at a lobby kiosk, and it provides a phone deposit number: 866-394-0490.
Q
Where can I buy commissary items or gift packs for someone in custody?
Some counties handle this through the sheriff’s commissary e-commerce site. For example, San Diego County says you can deposit money through its sheriff commissary e-commerce site, and you can purchase gift packs there as well.
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