Inmates primarily learn about money deposited into their Securus accounts by receiving a direct receipt, confirming the transaction. This system ensures transparency and provides inmates with immediate notification of funds added to their commissary accounts.
Understanding Inmate Fund Notifications
When friends or family deposit money into an inmate's account via services like Securus, the correctional facility's system ensures the inmate is informed of these incoming funds. The most common and direct method of notification is through a physical or digital receipt that is provided to the inmate.
Direct Notification: The Receipt System
- Immediate Confirmation: Inmates typically receive a receipt detailing the deposited amount shortly after the transaction is processed and the funds are credited to their account. This receipt serves as their official notice and confirmation that money has been successfully added.
- Transparency: The receipt provides essential transparency, allowing inmates to keep track of their finances and understand exactly how much money has been transferred to them.
Other Ways Inmates Monitor Funds
Beyond the direct receipt, inmates often have additional avenues to monitor their account balances, which can also confirm the presence of new funds:
- Commissary Kiosks: Many modern correctional facilities feature self-service kiosks. Inmates can log in to these kiosks to check their current account balance, view their transaction history, and even place commissary orders.
- Inmate Communication Devices: In some facilities that provide secure tablets or other communication devices, inmates may have access to applications that display their current account balance and recent financial activities.
- Staff Assistance: Inmates can sometimes inquire about their account balance directly with correctional staff or commissary officers, especially in facilities without automated self-service options.
Utilizing Received Funds
Once money is deposited and confirmed, inmates can utilize these funds for various essential services and purchases within the correctional facility:
- Commissary Purchases: This is the most common use, allowing inmates to buy approved items such as snacks, hygiene products, stationery, stamps, and limited clothing items from the facility's commissary store.
- Phone Calls & Messaging: Funds can be used to pay for phone calls and secure electronic messages facilitated by Securus or other approved communication providers, enabling inmates to stay connected with family and legal counsel.
- Medical Co-pays: Inmates may use their funds to cover co-payments for medical or dental services provided by the facility.
- Legal Supplies: Depending on facility rules, funds might be used to purchase items necessary for legal research or document preparation.
How Funds Are Deposited via Securus
For those looking to send money to inmates, Securus offers several convenient and secure methods to ensure funds reach the inmate's account:
- Online & Mobile App: Deposits can be made quickly through the official Securus Technologies website or its mobile application using credit or debit cards.
- Phone Deposits: An automated phone system is available for making deposits over the phone.
- Walk-in Locations: Cash deposits can be made at various retail locations partnered with Securus, providing an accessible option for those preferring to pay in cash.
