Inmate Finance in Jefferson City, Missouri

The Missouri Department of Corrections (MODOC) oversees the financial aspects related to inmates incarcerated within its facilities, including those located in Jefferson City. Inmate finance encompasses a range of services, primarily focusing on managing inmate accounts, processing deposits, and facilitating disbursements.

Inmate Accounts

Upon entering a MODOC facility in Jefferson City, each inmate is assigned an individual account. This account functions as a repository for funds the inmate receives from various sources. These sources can include:

• Family and Friends: The most common source of funds is deposits made by individuals outside the correctional system. MODOC uses JPay as their primary vendor for electronic money transfers. JPay allows approved family and friends to deposit funds directly into an inmate’s account via online platforms, phone, or in-person at designated locations.
• Work Assignments: Inmates who participate in approved work assignments within the facility, such as kitchen duties or laundry services, may receive modest compensation, which is credited to their account. The pay rates are typically quite low.
• Legal Settlements or Other External Sources: In rare cases, an inmate may receive funds from legal settlements, inheritances, or other external sources.

Using Inmate Funds

Inmates can utilize the funds in their accounts for several purposes, all subject to MODOC regulations. These include:

• Commissary Purchases: Inmates can purchase items from the prison commissary, which offers a range of goods, including snacks, hygiene products, stationery, and over-the-counter medications.
• Telephone Services: Funds can be used to pay for telephone calls to approved contacts. MODOC contracts with a specific telephone provider, and rates are often higher than standard rates.
• Email Services: Through JPay, inmates can send and receive electronic messages (email) to approved contacts. Each message usually carries a small fee.
• Other Authorized Expenses: In some instances, inmates may be authorized to use funds for other specific expenses, such as legal fees or restitution payments, depending on the situation and facility regulations.

Withdrawals and Disbursements

Withdrawals from inmate accounts are typically handled internally by the MODOC. Inmates submit requests for commissary purchases or other authorized expenses, and the funds are deducted from their accounts accordingly. Upon release, inmates receive the remaining balance in their accounts. The form of this disbursement can vary but generally involves a check or a prepaid debit card.

Oversight and Regulation

The MODOC has established policies and procedures to govern inmate finance, aiming to ensure accountability and prevent abuse. These policies address issues such as deposit limits, spending restrictions, and dispute resolution processes. Regular audits and oversight mechanisms are in place to monitor inmate financial activities and identify potential irregularities.

Important Considerations

It’s crucial for individuals depositing funds into inmate accounts to adhere to MODOC regulations and use approved channels such as JPay. Unauthorized methods of sending money can result in the funds being rejected or confiscated. Staying informed about the specific policies and procedures of the facility in Jefferson City is essential for ensuring that inmate finances are managed smoothly and efficiently.