How JPay Works

JPay provides electronic messaging, video visitation, money transfers to inmate trust accounts, and in facilities with tablet programs, access to digital content such as music and e-books.

Not every service is available at every facility. A facility may have JPay for money transfers but not for messaging, or vice versa. When you look up a facility on JPay, it will show which services are active there.

Go to jpay.com or download the JPay app on iOS or Android. Create an account with your name, email address, and a password. Find the inmate by searching their name, inmate ID, and state. Once located, add them to your account.

For messaging, the first contact request may need to be sent by the inmate from their end or through the facility's registration process. Follow the instructions on the platform after adding the inmate.

JPay uses a stamp system for messaging. You purchase stamps through the platform and use one stamp per message sent. Stamps typically cost $0.33 to $0.47 depending on the state and current pricing.

Messages are reviewed before delivery. Most messages arrive within a few hours. You can attach photos to messages for an additional charge. Photo attachments go through the same review process as text messages.

JPay is one of the most common platforms for sending money to inmate trust accounts. You can send money online, through the app, or by phone. A processing fee applies and typically ranges from $4.95 to $11.95 depending on the transfer amount and method.

Funds typically reach the inmate's account within a few hours for online transfers. Money sent by money order or check takes longer. Always use the correct inmate ID and legal name to avoid rejected transfers.