What You Can and Cannot Do
You cannot open a bank account on behalf of an inmate. Banks require the account holder to appear in person, provide a government-issued ID, and sign documents themselves. An inmate cannot do this while incarcerated, and no power of attorney or guardianship overrides this requirement.
What you can do is help an inmate prepare to open an account after release, or manage money they already have through existing prison financial systems. Some facilities allow inmates to maintain accounts they opened before incarceration, though access is limited. The rules depend on the facility, the inmate's custody level, and the bank's own policies.
If the inmate is a minor or has a legal guardian, the guardian may open a custodial account in the minor's name, but the inmate still cannot access or control it while incarcerated. The account exists for after release.
Key Takeaways
- Banks require the account holder to appear in person with a government ID and sign all documents themselves—an inmate cannot do this while incarcerated.
- Most facilities offer a commissary or trust account system where inmates can hold and spend money on approved items, but this is not a bank account.
- An inmate can prepare for banking after release by gathering documents now, including a birth certificate, Social Security card, and any mail showing a current address.
- Some banks offer second-chance or no-credit-check accounts that may be easier to open after release, even with a criminal record.
- If you are managing an inmate's finances, contact the facility's business office to learn what systems are available and what paperwork you need to send money in.
How Prison Financial Systems Work Instead
Most correctional facilities operate a commissary account or trust account where inmates can hold money. You can deposit funds into this account from outside, and the inmate can use the balance to buy items from the prison store—food, hygiene products, phone credits, or stamps. The money stays within the facility's system and does not go to a bank.
Each facility has its own rules about how much an inmate can hold, what they can buy, and how deposits work. Some facilities accept deposits by mail, some through a third-party service like JPay or GTL, and some require you to visit in person. Contact the facility's business office or commissary department to learn the specific process. You will need the inmate's full name, inmate number, and facility name.
This account is not a bank account. The facility controls it, can freeze it, and may deduct money for fines, restitution, or facility fees. When the inmate is released, any remaining balance is usually given to them in cash or a check, though some facilities mail it later.
Documents an Inmate Needs Before Release
An inmate can start gathering documents now that will be required to open a bank account after release. The most important are a government-issued photo ID (state ID, driver's license, or passport) and a Social Security card. If the inmate does not have these, they can request them while incarcerated, though the process takes time.
To request a replacement Social Security card, the inmate can contact the Social Security Administration by mail or ask a family member to request one on their behalf. A birth certificate is also useful—many states allow you to request one by mail. Some facilities have a law library or inmate services office that can help with these requests.
The inmate should also try to establish a current mailing address for after release. Banks ask for a recent utility bill or lease as proof of address. If the inmate will live with family, ask that person to save a recent bill in the inmate's name, or plan to use a PO box or mail forwarding service temporarily.
Banks That May Work After Release
Not all banks will open accounts for people with recent incarceration. Some use background checks that flag criminal history, and some have policies against it. However, many banks and credit unions offer second-chance accounts or no-credit-check accounts specifically for people rebuilding their financial life.
Credit unions often have fewer restrictions than large national banks and may consider the whole person rather than a single background factor. Community banks and online banks also vary widely—some have no background check at all. The inmate should call ahead and ask directly: "I have a criminal record. Do you have accounts for people in my situation?" Honest banks will say yes or no.
Some states and nonprofits run second-chance banking programs that help people with records open accounts. The inmate can search for these programs in the state where they will live after release, or ask a reentry counselor at the facility if one exists.
What Happens to Money the Inmate Already Has
If the inmate had a bank account before incarceration, the account still exists—but access depends on the bank and the account type. Some banks freeze accounts after a period of inactivity. Others allow the inmate to manage the account by mail or phone, though this is rare. A few banks have policies that close accounts when the holder is incarcerated.
The inmate should contact the bank directly to ask about the account status. They will need the account number and may need to answer security questions. If the account is still active, the inmate can ask whether they can make deposits or withdrawals by mail, or whether they must wait until release to visit in person.
If the account has been closed, the bank will tell the inmate what happened to the remaining balance. Usually it is held for a set period (often five to seven years) before being sent to the state's unclaimed property program. The inmate can search for unclaimed money in their state's treasurer's office website.
Helping an Inmate Prepare for Banking After Release
The most useful thing you can do is help the inmate gather documents and plan ahead. Before release, make sure they have or can request a government ID and Social Security card. Help them understand what a bank account is and how to use it—many people who have been incarcerated for years may not be familiar with current banking practices like debit cards, online banking, or overdraft fees.
After release, go with the inmate to open an account if possible. Bring the documents listed above, plus proof of address. Be honest with the bank about the criminal record if asked—lying on a bank process can result in account closure and legal trouble. Most banks that offer second-chance accounts expect this history and do not hold it against the applicant.
If the inmate struggles to open an account, a nonprofit reentry program or community action agency in your area may offer financial coaching or help with the process. These services are usually free.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I add money to an inmate's commissary account if I do not know their inmate number?
You will need the inmate number to make a deposit. Contact the facility's commissary office with the inmate's full name and the facility name, and they will provide the number. You can also ask the inmate to call or write you with this information.
What if the inmate is a minor—can I open a bank account for them?
A parent or legal guardian can open a custodial account in the minor's name at most banks. The minor cannot access or control the account while incarcerated, but the account will be theirs to use after release. The bank will explain the rules when you open it.
Will a criminal record prevent the inmate from opening a bank account after release?
A criminal record alone does not prevent banking. Many banks and credit unions open accounts for people with records. However, some banks use background checks and may decline. The inmate should call banks ahead of time and ask directly whether they work with people in their situation.
Can the inmate access their commissary account online or by phone?
This depends on the facility. Some allow inmates to check balances through a phone system or kiosk. Most do not allow online access. Contact the facility's commissary office to learn what options exist at that location.
What happens to money in the commissary account when the inmate is released?
The facility will give the inmate any remaining balance, usually in cash or a check at the time of release. Some facilities mail it later. Ask the commissary office what to expect so the inmate is not surprised.