Bank Account Protocol When Incarcerated

Many people don’t think about banking when they’re in prison. But keeping track of your money, even behind bars, is essential. This article will help inmates and their families understand how to manage bank accounts while serving time.

Why Do Prisoners Need Bank Accounts?

Having a bank account can help prisoners in many ways:

It’s a safe place to keep money
It helps with life after release
It’s needed to get a job or rent a home
It makes paying bills easier
It’s useful for buying things online

How Does Prison Affect Your Bank Account?

Going to prison doesn’t automatically close your bank account. But some things can make it hard to use your account:

Court Orders:

Sometimes, a court might freeze your account. This can happen if:

You’re suspected of making money from crime
You’ve been found guilty of a money crime
You owe someone money, and they’ve gone to court

Inactive Accounts:

If you don’t use your account long, the bank might make it “dormant.” You can’t use the money until you “wake up” the account.

To keep your account active:

Tell your bank your prison address
Try to use the account every few months, even for small amounts

Managing Your Account in Prison:

It’s your job to take care of your account while in prison. Here’s how:

Letting Someone Else Help:

You can give someone you trust permission to use your account. This is called a “Third Party Mandate.” It’s free and usually easy to set up.

Talking to Your Bank:

You can’t use your phone or internet banking in prison. You’ll have to write letters instead. Here are some essential things to do:

Tell your bank your new address
Please give them your prison number
Ask about getting bank statements

Remember, prison staff can read your mail. Your banking information won’t be private.

Using Your Account:

You can’t keep your bank cards or checkbooks with you. They’ll be stored with your valuables. If you need to write a cheque, you’ll have to ask permission.

Rules for Banking in Prison:

There are some rules about what you can do with your account:

If you’re waiting for a trial, you can use your account like normal
If you’ve been found guilty, you can only do personal banking
You can’t run a business from prison
You can’t use credit cards or get new loans

Moving Money Around:

It’s not easy to move money in and out of prison. Here’s what you need to know:

To put money in your prison account, you need to write a cheque
To send money from jail to your bank, you need to fill out a particular form
You might be able to set up regular payments for things like debts

Getting Ready for Release:

When you leave prison:

You’ll get your bank cards and checkbooks back
Tell your bank your new address right away
Try to open a new account if you don’t have one

Why It’s Hard to Get a Bank Account After Prison?

Banks might not want to give you an account if:

You don’t have a job
You have a criminal record
You have bad credit
You don’t have a home address
You can’t prove who you are

But don’t give up! Keep trying different banks.

Types of Accounts for Ex-Prisoners:

Try to get a basic bank account when you’re out of prison. It’s simpler than a regular account and easier to get. You can’t have an overdraft or checkbook, but it’s a good start.

Opening an Account While in Prison:

Some prisons help inmates open bank accounts before they leave. This can be helpful. Ask the staff at your jail if they do this.

Other Options if You Can’t Get a Bank Account:

If banks keep saying no, you could try:

A credit union account
A prepaid card
The Payment Exception Service (for getting benefits)

These aren’t as good as a bank account, but they’re better than nothing.

Staying Positive:

Remember, you have rights when you leave prison. You can open a bank account and get a job like anyone else—some companies even hire ex-prisoners.

Where to Get Help?

If you need help with banking or money, these groups can help:

Nacro
Step Together
St Giles Trust
Trailblazers
Unlock
Women in Prison
Working Chance

You can also ask Citizens Advice or your probation officer for help.

Conclusion:

Managing money in prison isn’t easy, but it’s essential. Having a bank account can make your life much easier when you leave. Don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it. You can control your finances and prepare for life after prison with some effort.