Prison Life
How Does the Commissary Work in Federal Prison?
The commissary is an essential part of federal prison life. Understanding how it works helps inmates and families plan finances and know what to expect. This guide covers everything from what you can buy to how family members can add funds to your account.
What is the Federal Prison Commissary?
The commissary is essentially a prison store. While the BOP provides basic necessities (three meals, institutional clothing, basic hygiene items), the commissary allows inmates to supplement these basics with additional food, better hygiene products, clothing items, and other approved goods.
Access to the commissary isn't a right but a privilege that can be restricted for disciplinary reasons. Most inmates value commissary access highly, as it significantly improves quality of life.
What Can You Buy at Commissary?
Commissary offerings vary somewhat by facility, but most federal prison commissaries include:
Food Items
- Snacks (chips, cookies, candy, crackers)
- Beverages (coffee, drink mixes, soda in some facilities)
- Canned goods (tuna, chicken, mackerel)
- Instant foods (ramen, oatmeal, soup)
- Condiments and seasonings
- Fresh fruit (when available)
Hygiene and Personal Care
- Shampoo and conditioner
- Soap and body wash
- Deodorant
- Toothpaste and toothbrushes
- Shaving supplies
- Skin care products
Clothing and Accessories
- Underwear and socks
- Athletic shoes (specific brands allowed)
- Sweatshirts and sweatpants
- T-shirts
- Watches
- Reading glasses
Communication and Entertainment
- Postage stamps
- Writing supplies (pens, paper, envelopes)
- Batteries
- Radios with headphones
- Playing cards and games
Over-the-Counter Health Items
- Pain relievers
- Antacids
- Cold medicine
- Vitamins
- First aid supplies
How Much Does Commissary Cost?
Prices are generally comparable to or slightly higher than outside retail. Some typical price ranges (subject to change):
- Ramen noodles: $0.25-0.40 per package
- Canned tuna/chicken: $2.00-3.50
- Coffee: $4.00-6.00 per container
- Athletic shoes: $50-100
- Radio: $25-50
- Shampoo: $3.00-5.00
- Stamps: At face value
Spending Limits and Schedule
Federal prisoners have a monthly spending limit of $360 on regular commissary items. This limit resets on the first of each month. Some items like stamps, phone credits, and certain medical items may not count against this limit.
Each facility has a designated commissary day for each housing unit. Inmates typically submit their order in advance and pick up their items on their assigned day. Commissary usually operates once per week per unit.
First Weeks in Custody
New arrivals typically can't access commissary for the first 1-2 weeks while being processed. The institution provides basic hygiene items during this period. Plan for this by entering custody with basic needs met.
How to Fund a Commissary Account
Family members have several options for depositing funds into an inmate's commissary account:
Deposit Methods
- Western Union: Available at many retail locations or online. Requires inmate's name and register number.
- MoneyGram: Similar to Western Union, available at retail locations and online.
- National Lockbox: Mail a check or money order to the BOP lockbox address with inmate's information.
- Online Services: Some facilities use services like JPay or Access Corrections for deposits.
Each method has processing times and fees. Western Union and MoneyGram are typically fastest (24-48 hours) but have higher fees. Mail deposits are cheapest but can take 7-10 business days to process.
Tips for Managing Commissary
- Set a budget: Decide in advance how much family will send monthly and stick to it
- Prioritize needs: Hygiene items and communication (stamps, phone) before snacks
- Watch for theft: Keep valuable items secure in your assigned locker
- Don't buy for others: Purchasing items for other inmates on credit creates problems
- Plan for emergencies: Keep some funds in reserve for unexpected needs
- Stock up strategically: Some items sell out; regular necessities should be ordered consistently
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the commissary in federal prison?
The commissary is a prison store where inmates can purchase food, hygiene items, clothing, and other approved products using funds in their account. It operates on a weekly schedule and has monthly spending limits.
How much can inmates spend at commissary?
Federal prisoners have a monthly spending limit of $360 on regular commissary items. Some items like stamps, phone credits, and over-the-counter medications may not count against this limit.
How do you put money on an inmate's commissary account?
Family members can deposit funds through Western Union, MoneyGram, the National Lockbox (mail), or through online services like JPay. Each method has different processing times and fees.
How Sam Can Help
Understanding commissary is just one part of prison preparation. Sam Mangel helps clients understand all aspects of daily life in federal custody.
- Financial Planning: Help families establish sustainable commissary funding plans
- Daily Life Preparation: Comprehensive guidance on routines, expectations, and how to spend your time
- Facility-Specific Information: Each facility is different; know what to expect at yours
Know What to Expect
The commissary is just one aspect of prison life. Contact Sam for comprehensive preparation guidance.