Sending funds using Western Union

Inmates can receive funds at a BOP-managed facility, which are deposited into their commissary accounts. You can send an inmate funds electronically using Western Union's Quick Collect Program.

  • Funds are received and processed seven days per week, including holidays.
  • Funds sent between 7:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m. EST are posted within 2-4 hours.
  • Funds sent after after 9:00 p.m. EST are posted at 7:00 a.m. EST the following morning.

To send funds using this method, please read and follow these steps carefully:

  1. Wait until an inmate has physically arrived at a Federal Bureau of Prisons' facility. Locate Inmate Whereabouts
  2. Gather the information you'll need. View Details
  3. Send the funds from a Western Union location, over the phone, or online. View Details

NOTICE: It's your responsibility to send the funds to the correct inmate. If the information you provide is incorrect, your transaction might be rejected; or worse, the funds may be deposited into the wrong account and not returned.

You'll need the following information:
  1. Account Number: Inmate's eight-digit register number with no spaces or dashes, followed immediately by the inmate's last name (example: 12345678DOE)
  2. Attention Line: Inmate's full committed name
  3. Code City is always: FBOP, DC

At a Western Union location

Locate the nearest agent by calling 1-800-325-6000 or visiting: www.westernunion.com.

You'll need to complete a payment form (see a sample form).

You can pay with cash.

Over the phone

Call 1-800-634-3422 and choose option 2.

A credit/debit card will be required.

Online

Please visit https://www.westernunion.com/us/en/inmatehome.html and select "Quick Collect."

A credit/debit card will be required.

I have a question or concern about a Western Union transfer.
Any questions or concerns regarding Western Union transfers should be directed to Western Union.
Where can I find additional/general information?
For additional details regarding the Inmate Commissary and deposit procedures, please read the Trust Fund/Deposit Fund Manual.
Who can I contact with questions about a specific deposit?
You may contact BOP staff at 202-307-2712 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. ET.