What does it mean to put money on books?
Putting money on books is a term commonly used in the prison system to refer to adding funds to an inmate’s commissary account. This allows the inmate to purchase personal items such as snacks, toiletries, and writing materials from the prison’s commissary. Inmates usually rely on the funds in their commissary accounts to supplement the basic necessities provided by the correctional facility.
When a person is detained in a prison or jail, they are often given access to a commissary account where they can purchase items such as snacks, toiletries, and stationery. Inmates can also use this account to make phone calls or receive other services. Putting money on books simply means adding funds to this account to enable the inmate to make purchases or access services within the facility.
In essence, putting money on books is a way for inmates to maintain a sense of autonomy and purchase items that can make their stay in prison more comfortable. It also allows them to stay connected with their loved ones through phone calls and other communication services that may require funds.
FAQs about putting money on books:
1. How can I put money on an inmate’s books?
You can usually put money on an inmate’s books by using various methods such as online payment systems, money orders, or cashier’s checks. Each correctional facility may have specific guidelines on how funds can be added to an inmate’s commissary account.
2. Are there limits to how much money can be put on an inmate’s books?
Yes, most correctional facilities have limits on the amount of money that can be added to an inmate’s commissary account. These limits are often set to prevent inmates from hoarding excessive amounts of funds or engaging in illicit activities within the facility.
3. Can inmates use the money on their books to pay for legal fees?
In some cases, inmates may be able to use funds from their commissary account to pay for legal fees or other court-related expenses. However, this varies depending on the correctional facility’s policies and the specific circumstances of the inmate’s case.
4. What happens if an inmate’s commissary account runs out of funds?
If an inmate’s commissary account runs out of funds, they may not be able to purchase additional items from the facility’s commissary until more money is deposited into their account. Inmates may also lose access to certain services that require funds, such as making phone calls or sending emails.
5. Can family and friends put money on an inmate’s books at any time?
Most correctional facilities allow family and friends to put money on an inmate’s books at any time, as long as the funds are added according to the facility’s guidelines. However, there may be restrictions on when and how often funds can be added to an inmate’s commissary account.
6. Are there fees associated with putting money on an inmate’s books?
Some online payment systems or money transfer services may charge a fee for adding funds to an inmate’s commissary account. It’s essential to check with the specific service provider to understand any fees or charges that may apply when putting money on an inmate’s books.
7. Can inmates transfer funds from their commissary account to other inmates?
In most cases, inmates are not allowed to transfer funds from their commissary account to other inmates within the facility. This rule is in place to prevent misconduct, theft, or other illegal activities that may arise from the transfer of funds between inmates.
8. Can inmates receive refunds for unused funds in their commissary account?
It is rare for inmates to receive refunds for unused funds in their commissary account. Correctional facilities typically do not provide refunds for deposits made to an inmate’s commissary account, as the funds are intended for the inmate’s use during their stay in the facility.
9. Can inmates use the money on their books to purchase clothing or shoes?
Some correctional facilities may allow inmates to use funds from their commissary account to purchase clothing or shoes from the facility’s approved vendors. However, this varies depending on the facility’s policies and regulations regarding inmate purchases.
10. Can inmates use the money on their books to buy items for other inmates?
In general, inmates are not allowed to use funds from their commissary account to purchase items for other inmates within the facility. This rule is in place to prevent exploitation, favoritism, or other issues that may arise from one inmate buying items for another.
11. How can inmates check the balance of their commissary account?
Inmates can usually check the balance of their commissary account by using the facility’s kiosk system, calling a designated phone number, or asking a correctional officer for assistance. Keeping track of their account balance helps inmates manage their funds and make informed purchasing decisions.
12. What types of items can inmates typically purchase with the money on their books?
Inmates can usually purchase a variety of items from the facility’s commissary, including snacks, beverages, personal hygiene products, writing materials, and other approved items. The availability of items may vary depending on the correctional facility’s regulations and vendors.