How Does a Prison Commissary Work?

Published April 12, 2023

Money is not permitted for prisoners to possess. But, if their family sends them money or if they’re able to earn money by working a prison job, the earnings are deposited into a personal prisoner trust fund. The majority of inmates refer to this as “commissary money.” Often, inmates who have maintained their good behavior can spend their trust fund money in the commissary.

A commissary in jail is a store, particularly for incarcerated individuals, that is placed within the facility. It is possible for it to carry a wide variety of products. Personal care products such as soap, shampoo, and toothpaste are included. Indeed, prisoners could live on three meals per day, but a prison commissary is an ideal choice if they want something extra or of quality.

How a Prison Commissary Work

Most prison allows inmates to go to a commissary once every couple of weeks. Inmates go to the commissary with a list of goods they wish to purchase and wait in line at the window to make their purchases. When their order from the commissary is completed, they will receive a bag packed with commodities, including food, drink, toiletries, and stationery.

With permission, prisoners can also purchase items such as shoes, fans, typewriters, undergarments, and basic over-the-counter drugs.

Although it is against prison rules, many inmates trade commissary goods for other commodities they need or prefer. If a prisoner lacks funds for the commissary, they can typically earn things by doing services for other inmates, such as repairing items or doing their laundry. Inmates are known to be creative, and a secret barter system is always in place.

What Prisoners Buy in Commissary

Unsurprisingly, food tops the list. Jail and prison cafeterias are known for offering inadequate, unappetizing meals. Inadequate nutritional value is another major concern with prison food. While the jail commissary may supplement the cafeteria’s lack of calories, more must be done to compensate for its poor quality. 

There is no fresh food available; the majority of commissary items are highly processed. Not surprisingly, ready-to-eat food and snacks are top sellers, as many inmates want more food than what the prison can provide, and ramen and candy bars are the easiest alternatives.