Discover the main inmate service providers in U.S. prisons, including commissary, phone services, video visitation, money deposits, tablets, email, and secure communication systems.
Top Service Providers for Inmates in U.S. Prisons
The U.S. prison system relies heavily on private companies to deliver essential services like communication, commissary access, video visits, money transfers, and digital tablets. Each facility partners with specific providers, so families must use the correct company to ensure funds or services reach the inmate successfully.
Below are the most common inmate service providers in the United States, along with what they offer and why families depend on them.
1. JPay
Keyword: inmate communication systems
JPay is one of the biggest inmate service providers. They offer:
- Money deposits
- Email and secure messaging
- Video visitation
- Music and media purchases
- Tablet services in partnered facilities
JPay is widely used in state prisons across the U.S.
2. Securus Technologies
Securus provides communication and security technology for prisons. Services include:
- Phone calls
- Video visitation
- Messaging apps
- Tablets and digital media
They serve hundreds of facilities and are known for their nationwide coverage.
3. GTL / ViaPath Technologies
Previously known as GTL, ViaPath is one of the main competitors of Securus. Their services include:
- Inmate phone systems
- Video visits
- Messaging
- Tablets for education and entertainment
Many state DOC facilities use ViaPath for daily communication services.
4. Access Corrections
Keyword: commissary providers
Access Corrections focuses on:
- Commissary deposits
- Food and care packages
- Secure messaging
- Phone account funding
They specialize in easy-to-use tools for friends and family.
5. Keefe Group
Keefe is one of the largest commissary service providers in U.S. prisons. They offer:
- Commissary distribution
- Food and snack products
- Toiletries and clothing
- Secure package programs
Many prisons rely on Keefe for weekly inmate store operations.
6. Walkenhorst’s
Walkenhorst’s is a popular provider for:
- Care packages
- Clothing
- Electronics (radios, MP3 players)
- Hygiene items
- Religious materials
They deliver to jails and prisons depending on facility approval.
7. Western Union & MoneyGram
These companies don’t run prison services but partner with some facilities for:
- Inmate money transfers
- Family deposits
- Fast and secure transactions
They are often used when prisons allow direct cash deposits.
8. CorrLinks
CorrLinks is the official email system used in federal prisons (BOP). They provide:
- Secure inmate email
- Paid messaging services
- Family account access
- Cloud-based communication
Anyone with a loved one in federal custody usually uses CorrLinks.
9. Smart Communications
This provider focuses on secure digital services for inmates:
- Kiosks and tablets
- Text and photo messaging
- Mail digitization
- Electronic forms
Some county jails and state facilities use Smart Communications for improved mail security.
10. ICSolutions
ICSolutions provides:
- Inmate phone systems
- Video visitation
- Messaging
- Account funding
Many local and county jails contract with ICSolutions for communication services.
Why These Providers Matter
These companies play a major role in daily prison life by helping inmates:
- Stay connected to family
- Purchase essentials
- Access education and entertainment
- Maintain emotional stability
- Receive money safely and securely
For families, using the correct provider ensures funds, messages, and services are delivered without delays or errors.
Final Thoughts
Inmate service providers are essential to the operation of prisons across the United States. From commissary and communication to digital tablets and video visits, these companies help inmates maintain connection, structure, and well-being during incarceration.