How to send money and what forms are accepted
First, separate two things that often get confused: money for bond (getting someone released) and money for an account (commissary, phone, or other services while they're in custody). Bond rules can be strict. One jail accepts bond 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, but requires the person posting to be over 18 (or accompanied by a parent/legal guardian), have government-issued photo ID, and pay in cash using the largest logical denomination. No change or $1 bills.
For IDOC trust fund deposits, timing depends on the method. IDOC documentation for ViaPath Trust Fund Services states that deposits through automated channels (ConnectNetwork website, mobile app, or toll-free phone) reach the facility within one business day. Mailed deposits are generally processed the next business day after ViaPath receives them.
- ✓ Lobby kiosks that take cash and major credit cards for a phone account deposit (example: a jail that describes a kiosk in the lobby for phone funds)
- ✓ A kiosk at a jail visitation entrance that is accessible 24 hours a day for commissary deposits and accepts credit/debit cards and cash, but does not accept dollar bills
- ✓ An InmateSales mobile app or the InmateSales website as a way to add funds (example provided by one county)
- ✓ A JailATM website as a deposits option (example provided by one county), and note that one county jail states money orders are no longer accepted
Common Questions
Q
How do I add money to an inmate's account and how long does it take to post?
The options depend on the facility, but examples in Illinois include a lobby kiosk that accepts cash and major credit cards, and adding funds through an automated vendor channel. For IDOC trust fund deposits, ViaPath states automated deposits through ConnectNetwork are transmitted to the facility within one business day. One county jail also describes a kiosk option at a visitation entrance and says it is accessible 24 hours a day.
Q
What payment types are accepted for bonding and are there special rules?
It can be very specific to the jail. One Illinois jail says it accepts bond 24/7, requires the person posting bond to be over 18 (or accompanied by a parent/legal guardian) and to have a government-issued photo ID, and it states cash in the largest logical denomination is the only form of legal tender accepted (no change or $1 bills).
Find an Inmate
Search for a loved one and send messages and photos in minutes.
