Sentencing Advocacy Group · Family Support

How to Send Money to a Federal Prisoner Safely

Use only the deposit method authorized for the person’s current custodial setting. For BOP-operated institutions, verify the committed name, eight-digit register number, arrival status, and current official payment instructions; the prison’s ordinary mailing address is not the BOP funds-deposit address.

Primarily for BOP-operated facilities. Other detention settings may use different rules and systems. Source review: October 10, 2026.

Which BOP deposit methods are available?

BOP lists approved electronic options and a USPS centralized lockbox process. Use current BOP instructions for MoneyGram, Western Union, and mail rather than relying on copied payment codes or third-party advertisements.

What can delay or prevent a mailed deposit?

BOP does not accept cash or personal checks through its lockbox process. Name or register-number errors, unacceptable instruments, and applicable holds can affect posting. Keep receipts and use the official troubleshooting instructions.

How much should you send, and what requests need verification?

Set an affordable family limit; no universal amount suits every person. Before sending money to an unfamiliar individual or account, independently verify the request. Refer threats, coercion, or suspicious demands to counsel and appropriate institution staff.

What should you verify before every deposit?

Separate the incarcerated person’s identity from the payment destination. A correct register number does not make an unfamiliar payment website legitimate. Open the official BOP funding instructions independently, choose a listed method, and check the information required by that method before submitting money.

  1. Confirm physical arrival at the applicable BOP-managed facility.
  2. Verify the full committed name and eight-digit register number.
  3. Use a deposit route listed by BOP for that setting.
  4. Check current fees and acceptable payment instruments before committing funds.
  5. Retain the transaction reference, date and receipt.
  6. Confirm posting or follow the provider’s official troubleshooting process before sending a duplicate.

How should you handle a missing deposit?

Review the receipt for errors and identify the payment method. For a mailed instrument, BOP directs senders to use the issuer’s tracing process after allowing time for delivery and applicable holds. For an electronic transfer, use the provider’s official support route. Avoid responding to unsolicited messages claiming that an extra payment to a personal account will unlock the funds.

Where can your family find related guidance?

Use the Federal Prison Directory, prison preparation services, and release and reentry planning for related preparation.

Which official sources should you check?

How can SAG help your family prepare?

Work directly with Joseph De Gregorio to organize family preparation priorities and questions for the appropriate professionals. Explore his publication and media record.

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SAG is an independent consulting practice, not a law firm or government agency. This guide provides general information, not legal, tax, financial, or medical advice. Official rules and individual circumstances control. No outcome or release date is guaranteed.