Prison101™ 60 Seconds

One of the first questions almost everyone asks after arriving at prison is, "How do I get money?" Closely followed by, "What can I buy?"

Every correctional system operates a commissary where incarcerated individuals can purchase approved personal items using funds deposited into their trust account. Understanding how commissary works, how money is managed, and what personal property is allowed can make daily life more comfortable and help you avoid unnecessary frustration.

Learning the rules early allows you to budget wisely, protect your property, and maintain greater independence throughout your sentence.

What Is Commissary?

Think of commissary as the prison's convenience store.

Depending on the institution, it may offer:

• Snacks and beverages

• Hygiene products

• Writing supplies

• Stamps and envelopes

• Approved clothing

• Athletic shoes

• Reading glasses

• Batteries

• Over-the-counter medications (where permitted)

• Food items

• Coffee

• Personal care products

Every facility has its own approved commissary list.

How Money Gets Into Your Trust Account

Money is deposited into your inmate trust account by approved family members or friends through authorized payment services.

Depending on the correctional system, deposits may be made by:

• Online payment services

• Telephone payments

• Money orders

• Approved kiosks

• Retail payment partners

Funds are typically available within a few days, although processing times vary by agency.

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Budgeting Matters

Commissary spending can quickly become a problem if you don't plan ahead.

Many incarcerated individuals receive deposits only once or twice each month.

Create a simple budget by prioritizing:

• Hygiene items

• Writing supplies

• Stamps

• Basic food items

• Essential clothing

Purchase non-essential items only after your basic needs have been met.

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Personal Property Rules

Every institution limits what property an incarcerated individual may possess.

Common approved items include:

• Eyeglasses

• Legal papers

• Religious materials

• Approved books

• Personal photographs

• Address book

• Writing materials

• Approved clothing

• Commissary purchases

Property limits are strictly enforced.

Too much property can result in excess items being mailed home, destroyed, or stored according to institutional policy.

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Protect Your Property

Unfortunately, property disputes are common in correctional facilities.

Protect yourself by:

• Labeling approved items

• Keeping receipts when possible

• Organizing your locker

• Never borrowing property

• Never lending commissary items

• Reporting missing property promptly through the proper channels

Good organization reduces unnecessary conflict.

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Avoid Gambling and Debt

One of the fastest ways to create problems in prison is by borrowing or gambling.

Never:

• Borrow commissary items

• Borrow money

• Loan food or personal property expecting repayment

• Participate in gambling pools

• Trade property for favors

Debt inside prison can create unnecessary stress and conflict.

Living within your means is one of the safest approaches.

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Sending Property Home

If you are transferred or released, property rules continue to apply.

Some items may need to be:

• Mailed home

• Picked up by family

• Donated

• Destroyed if prohibited

Keep important legal documents and personal records organized throughout your sentence.

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Helping Families Understand Commissary

Many families feel pressure to send money immediately.

While financial support is appreciated, communication is even more valuable.

Families should:

• Understand monthly spending limits

• Avoid sending money they cannot afford

• Ask about the facility's approved payment methods

• Help incarcerated loved ones budget responsibly

Healthy expectations reduce financial stress for everyone.

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Prison101™ Pro Tip

Commissary is about more than comfort, it's about responsibility.

Learning to budget, protect your belongings, and avoid unnecessary debt demonstrates maturity and self-discipline. Those habits will serve you well long after your sentence ends.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How often can I shop at commissary?

Most institutions have scheduled shopping days based on housing unit or inmate number. Policies vary by facility.

Is there a spending limit?

Yes. Most correctional systems establish weekly or monthly commissary spending limits.

Can family send packages?

Some institutions allow approved vendor packages during specific times of the year, while others prohibit them entirely.

What happens if I lose my property?

Report the loss through institutional procedures as soon as possible. Documentation and receipts can help support your claim.

Can I keep everything I buy?

No. Every institution has property limits that determine how much personal property an incarcerated individual may possess.

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