Sending Money or Packages to Inmates

Message to Approved Vendors

Important: All vendors must receive CDCR approval before providing services to institutions. 

Inmate Quarterly Packages are available through authorized private vendors (view approved package vendor list). Since 2003, the CDCR has contracted with a number of statewide and national companies that ensure inmates receive packages.

CDCR vendor approval is limited to minimum security requirements and general business intent. Purchases from vendors are at the buyer’s sole risk. CDCR assumes no liability for such purchases. Any issues or disputes regarding the vendor’s products are the sole responsibility of the buyer and/or vendor, and CDCR is not obligated to mediate or resolve any such disputes (Department Operations Manual Section 54030.9.1(a)(7)).

Any funds sent to an inmate will still be subject to restitution as ordered by the sentencing court. However, families that purchase packages directly from a vendor are not impacted by restitution.

Relevant Regulations and Policy

• Adopted Department Rules (effective January 1, 2017) – Funds Enclosed in Correspondence
• DOM Article 43 policy regarding Inmate Property. When the document opens, type in Article 43 as the search criteria, then press [enter]. After a few seconds, it should take you directly to the Inmate Property section.
• Title 15, section 3190(k)(7) – Religious Personal Property Matrix