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Criminal Justice Hub > Tasks > How do I send money to someone in prison

How do I send money to someone in prison Task

You can use the Ministry of Justice online service to make a payment by Visa, Mastercard or Maestro debit card. Money usually takes less than 3 working days to reach a prisoner’s account, but it may take longer.

This service is free, secure and available in all prisons in England and Wales.

You can no longer send money by bank transfer, cheque, postal order or send cash by post to any prison. You’ll need to use a debit card instead.

You’ll need the:

  • prisoner’s date of birth
  • prisoner number

You can get help with making a payment, ask a question about a payment you’ve already made, or get help with accessing the service.

You may be able to apply for an exemption – for example if you:

  • are unable to use a computer, a smart phone or the internet
  • do not have a debit card

This will allow you to send money by post.

You can also find out how to get a debit card by setting up a basic bank account.