When a loved one is in ICE custody, it is a distressing and disempowering experience. However, there are ways you can provide meaningful support during this difficult time. One way is to send money to your detained loved one.
Money in a commissary or trust can help make their detention more bearable and ensure they have access to essential resources and provisions. This blog will guide you through the process of how to send money to a detainee in ICE custody.
How to Send Money to an Immigration Detainee
Cash in a detainee’s possession upon arrival is deposited into their trust account, but this isn’t always enough. Sending money to someone in an immigration detention center can make a big difference. It helps them buy things they need in a detention center. Follow these steps to get started to send money to immigration detainees:
1. Get Pertinent Personal Details
During this process, you will need important information about the detainee. This includes their full name and Alien Registration number (A-number). The A-number is a unique 7-9-digit number assigned to detainees.
It’s a way to track their immigration files and records. The A-number is important for various immigration procedures, including filing for benefits, court cases, and sending money to detainees.
2. Locate the Immigration Detainee
The next step to send money to a detainee in ICE is to locate them. As long as you have their detainee number, this should be relatively simple. You can use the online immigrant detainee locator system to find where they are located. It’s important to note that you can’t use this system to find children under 18 years old.
Alternatively, you can contact the local field office and make an inquiry. Keep in mind that the field office is not a check-in center or a detention center. You should not send money to the field office.
3. Choose a Payment Method
Once you have determined where your loved one is, you can send money to the detainee at ICE. You can see a full list of all detention centers here. From this list, you can select the detention center and follow the instructions on how to send money to an immigration detainee.
You can send money to someone in immigration in one of several ways:
- use the ATM in the detention center
- send cash, money order or ashier’’s check in the mail
- send money with Western Union
- send money online through Access Corrections
4 Different Methods to Send Money to Immigration Detainees
These are the different methods you can use to send money to someone in ICE custody:
1. Deposit Money On-site
This is a straightforward way to send money to a detainee in immigration. All you need to do is physically visit the detention center, ask to send money to individuals, and they will guide you to use the on-site ATM. If you have any questions about opening hours, contact the detention center, and they should guide you further.
2. Send Money via Mail
If sending money in person isn’t convenient, you can always do this through the mail. Ensure that you have the:
- address of the detention center
- full name of the detainee
- their A-number
You can send cash, a money order, or a cashier’s check in the mail. Ensure you address the funds to:
- Name of Detention Center
- Detainee’s Full Mane and A-number
- Address of Detention Center
3. Send Money with Western Union
Western Union is a money transfer company that provides financial services around the United States. You can visit any physical Western Union office and how to send money to someone who’s an immigration detainee. However, they have an online option to send money to a detainee in ICE. They developed the Send2Corrections portal for this.
All you need to do is sign up, enter your contact details, verify your account, and then you can send money. If you prefer, you can also download the app from the Apple Store or Google Play for your convenience.
4. Send Money with Access Corrections
This is an online portal to send money to immigration detention centers. It is also the simplest way to send financial support. All you need to do is follow these simple steps:
- Visit the online portal
- Click ‘Get Started’
- Select the State, detention facility and enter the immigrant’s details
After, you will be redirected to complete the transaction online.
What is the Role of ICE in Immigration?
ICE enforces immigration laws. It arrests and detains people if they are found guilty of breaking these laws. They also handle the removal of illegal immigrants.
What is the Difference between ICE and Customs?
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is a government agency that handles immigration laws and border safety. It operates detention centers where detainees who broke immigration law.
It’s important to note that ICE and Customs are distinct entities. Customs is responsible for controlling the goods that enter the United States. On the other hand, ICE focuses on people, particularly immigration laws and the detention of those who violate these laws.
How Do I Get Immigration Bail?
You can get immigration bail by having someone pay at the detention facility or online. You must ensure the detainee is eligible for bail first. Not all immigration cases qualify for bail, and the eligibility criteria can vary depending on the specific circumstances of the case.
Factors such as the detainee’s flight risk, criminal history, and ties to the community are typically considered by the immigration authorities when determining bail eligibility. By carefully reviewing the detainee’s case and confirming their eligibility, you can then proceed with the bail payment process.
Reunite with Your Loved Ones
Is your loved one currently detained by ICE? Are you struggling to secure the necessary funds for their immigration bail? Look no further—Liberty Immigration can help. Get started with our simple online form to kickstart the process of obtaining immigration bail. Our extensive nationwide network of locations ensures that you can easily access our services, no matter where you are situated.