For individuals entering federal prison—and their families—the term commissary comes up quickly. The commissary is more than just a prison “store.” It’s a lifeline for comfort, connection, and even survival behind bars. Understanding how the commissary works can make the adjustment to prison life a little easier.
What Is the Federal Prison Commissary?
The commissary is a store inside every federal prison operated by the Bureau of Prisons (BOP). While the prison provides basic necessities—like three daily meals, uniforms, and limited hygiene supplies—the commissary allows inmates to purchase additional items with money from their account.
Think of it as a small convenience store inside the prison, offering food, hygiene products, clothing, writing supplies, and other approved items.
How Commissary Accounts Work
Each inmate has a trust fund account (similar to a debit account). Family and friends can send money to this account through official BOP deposit systems. Wages earned from prison jobs are also deposited here.
Monthly Spending Limit: The BOP sets a spending cap, which is currently $360 per month (not counting certain stamps, phone time, or medical co-pays).
Shopping Days: Inmates are usually assigned one commissary day per week, depending on housing units and schedules.
What Can You Buy at Commissary?
Items vary by prison, but generally include:
- Food & Snacks: Coffee, ramen noodles, tuna, chips, candy, summer sausage, peanut butter. Many inmates use these items to create their own “recipes” like burritos, spreads, or “prison pizza.”
Hygiene Products: Soap, shampoo, toothpaste, razors, lotion.
Clothing: Extra socks, underwear, sweatshirts, shoes.
Stationery & Postage: Writing paper, pens, envelopes, stamps.
Electronics (at some prisons): Radios, headphones, clear plastic MP3 players.
Why Commissary Matters
While commissary items may sound like small luxuries, they play an outsized role in prison life.
1. Nutrition & Comfort: Cafeteria food is basic. Commissary food supplements meals and adds variety.
2. Social Currency: Items like ramen or coffee often serve as informal currency for trading.
3. Mental Health: Comfort items—like snacks, music players, or good soap—help inmates cope with the stress of incarceration.
4. Connection: Access to writing supplies and stamps allows people to stay in touch with family.
Commissary Rules to Know
No Cash Inside: All purchases are electronic through the inmate’s account.
Limits Apply: Exceeding the monthly ($360) or weekly limit isn’t allowed.
Contraband Warning: Altering or trading commissary items in certain ways can lead to disciplinary action.
Tips for Families
If you have a loved one in federal prison, understanding commissary can help you support them:
- Send Funds Wisely: Small amounts of money can make a big difference in quality of life. Ask What They Need: Each inmate has different priorities—some may prefer food, others hygiene or writing supplies. Know the Cutoff Dates: Deposits take time to process, so send money before your loved one’s shopping day.
In federal prison, commissary represents freedom of choice—something scarce in that environment. A simple cup of coffee, a favorite snack, or a clean pair of socks can bring comfort and dignity. For families, contributing to a commissary account is one of the most direct ways to provide support during incarceration.