How to Send Money to a Prisoner in the UK

Sending money to a prisoner in the UK is essential to support their needs, such as buying toiletries, phone credits, and other personal items. Understanding the process and requirements ensures your money reaches them safely and efficiently.

Send Money to a Prisoner: Methods and Requirements

You can send money to a prisoner through various methods, but the most common and efficient way is using the official UK Government service. This service allows you to make payments using Visa, Mastercard, or Maestro debit cards. Money typically reaches the prisoner’s account within three working days​​​​.

Required Information

To send money, you will need:

  • The prisoner’s full name
  • Their date of birth
  • Their prisoner number

This information ensures the money is correctly attributed to the intended recipient.

Steps to Send Money Online

  1. Visit the Official Service: Use the government’s secure online service at GOV.UK.
  2. Enter Prisoner Details: Input the prisoner’s full name, date of birth, and prisoner number.
  3. Make the Payment: Complete the payment using your debit card. You will receive an email confirmation once the payment is processed​​.

Alternative Methods

If you cannot use the online service, you can apply for an exemption to send money via post. This option is available for individuals who are unable to access the internet or do not have a debit card. You can find the exemption request form and additional details on the GOV.UK website.

Tips for Sending Money to a Prisoner

  1. Double-Check Details: Ensure the prisoner’s information is correct to avoid delays.
  2. Send Smaller Amounts: Consider sending money in smaller amounts to avoid potential issues with prison security protocols.
  3. Use Tracked Services: If sending money by post, use a tracked delivery service to ensure it arrives safely​​.

Limits and Policies

Prisoners in the UK have a weekly spending limit, usually around £25. However, they can receive a one-off gift of up to £100 upon arrival to help them settle in. Any additional funds will be saved and may be given to them upon release, up to £50​​.

Conclusion

Sending money to a prisoner in the UK is straightforward if you follow the official procedures and use the correct information. This support is crucial for helping them maintain some level of comfort and communication with the outside world.

FAQs

  1. How do I send money to a prisoner in the UK? You can send money using the government’s online service or apply for an exemption to send money by post if you cannot access the internet.

  2. What information do I need to send money to a prisoner? You need the prisoner’s full name, date of birth, and prisoner number.

  3. How long does it take for the money to reach the prisoner’s account? Money usually takes less than three working days to reach the prisoner’s account.

  4. Can I send cash or cheques to a prisoner? No, cash and cheques are not accepted. You must use a debit card or apply for an exemption to send money by post.

  5. What is the spending limit for prisoners? Prisoners can spend around £25 per week, but they may receive a one-off gift of up to £100 upon arrival.

  6. Can I send money to a prisoner if I live overseas? Yes, international payments can be made using a debit card through the online service.

  7. What should I do if I cannot send money online? You can apply for an exemption to send money by post.

  8. How can I ensure the money reaches the prisoner safely? Use the official online service or send money via tracked postal services.

  9. Are there any fees for sending money to a prisoner? The online service is free to use.

  10. What happens if the prisoner moves to a different prison? The money will still reach the prisoner’s account as long as you use the correct details.

Further Reading

For more information on sending money to prisoners in the UK, visit the GOV.UK Send Money to Someone in Prison page.

Visit our other pages such as Jail What To Expect.