Broome County Jail Commissary services give inmates access to essential items, snacks, hygiene products, and communication tools while they are in custody. The commissary system allows family and friends to support their loved ones by funding accounts that let inmates purchase approved goods. This service operates under strict rules set by the Broome County Sheriff’s Correctional Facility in Binghamton, New York. All transactions must follow official procedures to ensure security, transparency, and fairness for everyone involved. Whether you’re sending money, checking balances, or learning how the system works, this page gives you accurate, up-to-date information straight from official sources.
How Broome County Jail Commissary Works
The commissary at Broome County Jail lets inmates buy food, toiletries, stationery, and other approved items not provided by the facility. Each inmate has a personal account managed by the jail’s finance office. Money added to this account can only be used for purchases through the weekly commissary order system. Inmates receive a catalog listing available products, prices, and ordering deadlines. Orders are processed once per week, and items are delivered directly to housing units. Funds cannot be withdrawn as cash, and unused balances may carry over or be returned upon release, depending on facility policy.
Ways to Fund an Inmate’s Commissary Account
There are two main ways to add money to an inmate’s commissary account: mailing a money order or using online payment services. For mailed payments, send a money order payable to “Broome County Sheriff’s Correctional Facility.” Include the inmate’s full name, Booking ID number, and the correct address: 155 Lt. Van Winkle Drive, Binghamton, NY 13905. Each transaction is limited to $1,000. The finance office confirms receipt and posts funds within one banking day. Call 607-778-1911 during business hours (8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday) if you have questions or need confirmation.
Online payments are processed through AllPaid (also known as GovPay Now). This secure portal accepts credit cards and ACH bank transfers. Users must create an account, enter the inmate’s legal name and booking number, and pay the exact amount needed. Customer support is available at 877-392-2455 for help with errors or verification. Payments made online appear in the inmate’s account quickly—usually within minutes during business hours.
Using the Official Broome County Sheriff Mobile App
The free Broome County Sheriff app, available on Google Play, helps families stay connected with inmates. Through the “Inmate Services” section, users can view real-time commissary balances, track recent deposits, and receive alerts when funds are added. The app also shows upcoming visitation slots, phone call notifications, and inmate status updates. It syncs with the jail’s database every few hours, so information stays current. Downloading the app is recommended for anyone who regularly supports an inmate, as it reduces the need for phone calls and provides instant access to key details.
Inmate Communication and Photo Delivery Options
Inmates at Broome County Jail can communicate with loved ones through phone calls, electronic messages, and printed photos. Phone calls are handled by GTL at 866-230-7761. Electronic messaging uses tablets provided by GettingOut.com, which allow secure text-based conversations. Families can send digital photos via PrintBudii, a partnered service that prints and delivers images directly to inmates for a $0.35 fee per photo. Photos must meet size and content guidelines—no nudity, violence, or prohibited symbols. All mail and digital content is screened before delivery.
Checking Inmate Status and Roster Information
The public inmate roster updates every four hours and lists current bookings, charges, bond amounts, and projected release dates. You can search by name, booking number, or arrest date on the official roster website. If no results appear, call the records department at 607-778-1911 for verification. The roster also shows security classification levels (I through V), which affect housing, visitation, and program eligibility. Written requests for records can be faxed to 607-778-2100 or mailed to PO Box 2047, Binghamton, NY 13902-2047.
Bail Bond Payments and Legal Financial Support
Bail bonds can be posted online through the AllPaid portal. Users must register, input the inmate’s full legal name, booking number, and exact bond amount, then choose payment method. Credit card and ACH options are accepted. Once paid, funds are verified within 15 minutes, and the jail is notified. For assistance, call AllPaid support at 877-392-2455. Note that bail payments are separate from commissary deposits and serve a different purpose—releasing an inmate before trial rather than funding their account.
Security Levels and Their Impact on Commissary Access
Inmates are classified into Security Levels I through V based on criminal history, behavior, and sentence length. Higher security levels may have restricted commissary privileges, such as fewer purchase options or lower spending limits. Minimum-security inmates typically enjoy full access to all approved items. Classification reviews happen regularly, and improvements in behavior can lead to upgraded privileges. Families should ask about current restrictions when funding an account, especially if the inmate has recently been reclassified.
Common Questions About Commissary Limits and Policies
Each inmate has a weekly spending limit set by the facility, usually between $50 and $100, depending on security level and behavior. Unused funds roll over to the next week but cannot exceed a maximum balance (often $300). Items like extra socks, toothbrushes, or writing paper are commonly purchased. Prohibited items include electronics, weapons, or anything that could pose a safety risk. All orders are reviewed before approval, and rejected items are noted in the inmate’s file.
Visitation Rules and How They Relate to Commissary Use
Visitation schedules depend on an inmate’s security level and housing unit. Approved visitors must register in advance and pass a background check. During visits, inmates may discuss commissary needs with family, but no physical items can be exchanged. All conversations are monitored. Visitors should use the mobile app or website to check visitation availability and prepare questions about account balances or recent orders beforehand.
Mugshot Requests and Media Inquiries
Official inmate photos (mugshots) can be requested by mailing a written letter to: Broome County Sheriff’s Correctional Facility, Attention: Media Relations – Inmate Mugshot Request, 155 Lt. Van Winkle Drive, Binghamton, NY 13905. Include the inmate’s full name, booking number, and your contact information. Processing takes two to five business days. Alternatively, call 607-778-1911 during weekday hours for status updates. Fees may apply depending on request volume.
Sheriff’s Office History and Community Role
The Broome County Sheriff’s Office was established in 1806 and now serves about 197,000 residents across 850 square miles. It manages law enforcement, court security, civil process services, and the county jail. With 140 sworn deputies and 45 civilian staff, the office ensures public safety while supporting inmate rehabilitation programs. The commissary system is part of this effort, giving inmates tools to maintain dignity and connection during incarceration.
Statewide Inmate Search Tools and Broome County Data
New York’s statewide inmate search combines data from federal, state, and local facilities. Users can locate an inmate by name, date of birth, or DOC number. Results show current location, release date, and court schedules. While helpful, this tool may not reflect real-time changes—always verify details with the Broome County Jail directly. The county’s own roster is more accurate for local bookings and commissary-related inquiries.
Third-Party Services: InmateAid and Jail Exchange
Websites like InmateAid and Jail Exchange offer search tools and guides for Broome County inmates. These platforms aggregate public data and provide step-by-step instructions for sending money, ordering books, or arranging legal document delivery. While useful, always cross-check information with official sources. For example, InmateAid requires exact spelling of names and offers filters to narrow results to Broome County Corrections Division.
Tips for Avoiding Scams and Unauthorized Fees
Only use official channels to send money or request information. Avoid third-party websites that charge extra fees or promise faster service. The Broome County Sheriff’s Office does not endorse any paid services beyond AllPaid and PrintBudii. If someone contacts you claiming to be from the jail asking for payment outside these systems, hang up and call 607-778-1911 to report it. Scammers often target vulnerable families—stay alert and verify every request.
What Happens to Commissary Funds When an Inmate Is Released?
When an inmate is released, any remaining commissary balance is processed for return. The finance office issues a check mailed to the address on file or holds it for pickup. Families should ensure contact information is current. If the inmate is transferred to another facility, funds may move with them or be refunded, depending on the receiving institution’s policy. Always ask the finance office for specifics before release.
Emergency Contact and Support Resources
For urgent issues related to commissary accounts, call the finance office at 607-778-1911. For bail bond questions, use AllPaid support at 877-392-2455. General inquiries go to the main jail line at the same number. Visiting hours are posted on the official website and mobile app. Written correspondence should be sent to PO Box 2047, Binghamton, NY 13902-2047. Faxes go to 607-778-2100.
Official Website and Direct Links
Official website: gobroomecounty.com/sheriff/corrections Phone: 607-778-1911 Visiting hours: Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–4 p.m. (confirm via app or call) Address: 155 Lt. Van Winkle Drive, Binghamton, NY 13905 Map:
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are common questions about Broome County Jail commissary services, answered with clear, actionable information based on current policies and official procedures.
How much money can I send to an inmate’s commissary account at one time?
You can send up to $1,000 per transaction when funding an inmate’s commissary account at Broome County Jail. This limit applies whether you mail a money order or pay online through AllPaid. The rule exists to prevent large cash flows and maintain accountability. If more funds are needed, multiple transactions can be made over time, but each must include the inmate’s full name and Booking ID. Always keep your receipt until the deposit appears in the account. Funds are posted within one banking day for mailed orders and almost instantly for online payments.
Can inmates use commissary money to make phone calls or send messages?
No, commissary funds cannot be used directly for phone calls or electronic messaging. These services operate on separate systems. Phone calls are managed by GTL, and messaging uses GettingOut.com tablets, both requiring their own payment methods. However, some inmates use commissary purchases like phone cards if offered in the catalog. Check the weekly commissary list to see if prepaid calling options are available. Most communication costs are paid by families directly through the service providers, not through the inmate’s commissary balance.
What happens if I send a money order without the Booking ID?
If you send a money order without the inmate’s Booking ID, the finance office may delay processing until they can verify the recipient. Include the inmate’s full legal name and correct address to help staff locate the record. Without the Booking ID, it may take longer—up to several days—to credit the account. To avoid delays, always triple-check the ID number from the booking sheet or roster. Call 607-778-1911 if you’re unsure. Never send cash; only money orders are accepted by mail.
Are there items inmates cannot buy with commissary money?
Yes, inmates cannot purchase prohibited items such as weapons, drugs, electronics, or anything that poses a security risk. The weekly commissary catalog lists only approved products like snacks, hygiene items, stationery, and clothing. All orders are screened before delivery. Items that violate rules are rejected and noted in the inmate’s file. Spending limits also apply—usually $50–$100 per week—based on behavior and security level. Review the catalog carefully and follow all guidelines to ensure orders go through.
How do I check if my online commissary payment went through?
After paying online through AllPaid, you’ll receive a confirmation email with a transaction ID. You can also log into your AllPaid account to view payment history. To verify the funds reached the inmate’s account, use the Broome County Sheriff mobile app or call the finance office at 607-778-1911. Online payments typically post within minutes during business hours. If there’s a delay, have your confirmation number ready when you call. Mailed money orders take one banking day to process after receipt.
Can I send photos to an inmate, and how much does it cost?
Yes, you can send printed photos to inmates through PrintBudii, the jail’s partnered photo service. Upload digital images to their platform, and they print and deliver them directly to the inmate’s housing unit. Each photo costs $0.35 to process. Photos must follow content rules—no violence, nudity, or gang symbols. Digital copies are not allowed; only physical prints delivered by PrintBudii are accepted. All photos are screened before delivery. This service helps maintain connections while ensuring safety and compliance.
What should I do if I can’t find an inmate on the public roster?
If the inmate doesn’t appear on the public roster, they may have been recently booked, released, or transferred. Wait a few hours and check again, as the roster updates every four hours. If still missing, call the jail’s records department at 607-778-1911. Provide the inmate’s full name, date of birth, and any known booking details. Staff can cross-reference state databases to confirm status. Avoid relying solely on third-party sites, as they may not reflect real-time changes. Always use official channels for accurate information.