Each individual incarcerated in the Colorado Department of Corrections (CO DOC) has an inmate account. This account allows them to purchase essential and personal items.
🛒 What Can Inmates Buy?
Funds in an inmate account can be used for:
- 📞 Phone time
- ✉️ Stamps and writing materials
- 🍜 Food and snacks (canteen items)
- 👕 Clothing
- 🧼 Hygiene products
💡 Accounts are accessible at any facility the inmate is assigned to.
💵 How Funds Are Added
Money can be added to an inmate’s account through:
- 💳 Funds sent by friends and family
- 🛠️ Earnings from work assignments
📦 All funds remain in the account and will be released to the inmate upon:
- Community corrections placement
- Parole
- Full discharge
🚫 Important Restrictions
- ❌ Cash and money orders sent by mail are NOT accepted
💻 Ways to Send Money
CO DOC partners with approved providers to offer convenient payment options:
1. Online
- 🌐 Use a credit or debit card
2. By Phone
- 📱 Call provider services and pay with a credit or debit card
3. In Person
- 🏪 Deposit cash at approved locations nationwide
⏱️ Processing Times
- 🕓 Payments sent before 4:00 PM MT are typically available the next day
- ⏳ Allow 2–3 days for funds to fully process and be available for canteen orders
💲 Fees & Rates
- 💸 Fees vary depending on the provider and payment method
- 🔍 It’s recommended to compare services and pricing before sending money
⚖️ Mandatory Deductions
- 📉 A minimum of 20% of each deposit will be withheld
- This is required by law for:
- Court-ordered fines
- Fees
- Restitution
- Child support