Waukesha County Jail Commissary offers families and friends multiple secure ways to support inmates financially and with essential items. Whether you want to send money for commissary purchases, buy pre-packaged care items, or understand how inmate accounts work, this page provides the most accurate, up-to-date information directly from official sources. The jail uses trusted third-party platforms like iCare, ConnectNetwork, and GTL to process all transactions safely and efficiently.
How to Send Money to an Inmate at Waukesha County Jail
Friends and family can add funds to an inmate’s trust account using online services, phone systems, or mailed payments. All deposits go into a secure commissary ledger that inmates use to buy snacks, hygiene products, phone time, and other approved items. The jail does not accept cash or personal checks sent through the mail.
Online Deposits via ConnectNetwork
ConnectNetwork is the primary platform for electronic deposits. Users must create a free account, select “Waukesha County WI – County Jail” as the facility, and enter the inmate’s full name and ID number. Deposits range from $10 to $100 per transaction, but multiple deposits can be made. Funds appear in the inmate’s account within minutes. A receipt is emailed to the sender, and the inmate receives an SMS alert confirming the credit.
GTL Connect Network for Phone and Online Payments
GTL Connect allows deposits by phone or online. Call 262-548-7170 to verify inmate eligibility. Once confirmed, log in to the GTL portal, choose the inmate, and enter a deposit amount. Payments are processed instantly through a PCI-DSS-compliant system. The inmate’s balance updates immediately, allowing them to use funds right away at the facility’s kiosk or commissary.
Mailing Checks or Money Orders
For those who prefer traditional mail, send certified checks, cashier’s checks, or money orders only. Make the payment payable to “Waukesha County Jail FBO [Inmate’s Full Name]” and include the inmate’s booking number on the envelope. Mail to: P.O. Box 0217, Waukesha, WI 53187-0217. Do not send cash or personal checks—they will be returned. Allow 3–5 business days for processing.
Buying Commissary Care Packs Through iCare
iCare Gifts lets you purchase ready-made care packages for inmates in specific housing units. These packs contain approved snacks, toiletries, and phone cards. Only inmates in County Jail Pods 3 and 6–9 and the Huber Facility are eligible.
Step-by-Step iCare Purchase Process
Visit www.icaregifts.com and create a free account. Search for the inmate by full name and pod number. Choose from available packs—each lists exact contents and price. Pay with a credit card, debit card, or electronic check. After payment, you’ll receive a confirmation number. The jail processes the order within 24 hours and adds the items to the inmate’s account.
What’s Inside a Typical Care Pack?
Most packs include non-perishable snacks like granola bars, crackers, or chips; hygiene items such as toothpaste, soap, or deodorant; and prepaid phone minutes. All items meet the jail’s security and health standards. No glass, aerosols, or sharp objects are allowed.
Finding Current Inmates and Their Booking Details
The Waukesha County Sheriff’s Office publishes a real-time inmate roster updated every hour. This list shows names, booking numbers, dates of birth, charges, and scheduled release or court dates. You can sort by name, date, or facility, or search by partial name or booking number.
Why Check the Inmate List Before Sending Money?
Verifying an inmate’s status ensures your deposit reaches the right person. If someone has been released or transferred, funds may be delayed or require manual correction. Always use the booking number—not just the name—when making deposits or sending mail.
Visitation Rules and Scheduling
Waukesha County Jail offers both video and non-contact in-person visits. All visitors must be pre-approved and present valid photo ID.
Video Visitation Schedule
Professional video visits occur at three daily windows: 10:45 a.m., 3:45 p.m., and 8:30 p.m. on weekends. Sessions end automatically at lockdown. Unit-only video visits start 15 minutes after the main window. Schedule online at waukeshacountywi.gtlvisitme.com.
In-Person Non-Contact Visits
Held Monday through Thursday from 7:30–11:00 a.m. and 12:30–4:00 p.m. No physical contact is allowed. Follow the dress code on the jail’s website. Arrive early—late arrivals may miss their slot.
How Inmate Mail Works
All physical mail must include the inmate’s full name, booking number, and sender’s return address. Send to: Waukesha County Jail, P.O. Box 247, Phoenix, MD 21131. Write “Inmate Mail” clearly on the envelope. Do not abbreviate “Wisconsin.”
Digital Messages via TextBehind
Use the TextBehind app (iOS and Android) to send text messages. The system converts texts to print within one business day and delivers them with regular mail. Photos and documents are also supported.
Facility Overview: County Jail and Huber Facility
The Waukesha County Sheriff’s Department operates two correctional centers. The main County Jail holds up to 469 inmates in direct- and remote-supervision pods. The Huber Facility houses eligible inmates for work release programs. Both share intake, classification, and release services.
Daily Inmate Reports
The county publishes a downloadable PDF with current inmate data, including names, booking times, and locations. As of December 2023, the report spanned 16 pages with over 1,400 records. Attorneys and families use it to track custody status quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions About Waukesha County Jail Commissary
Many families have similar questions about sending money, buying care packs, and staying connected. Below are detailed answers based on official policies and real user experiences.
Can I send cash directly to an inmate?
No. Waukesha County Jail does not accept cash sent by mail or brought in person. All funds must go through ConnectNetwork, GTL, or mailed certified/cashier’s checks. This rule prevents theft and ensures traceable transactions. Cash left at the front desk or included in envelopes will be confiscated and not credited to the inmate’s account.
How long does it take for a commissary deposit to show up?
Online deposits via ConnectNetwork or GTL appear in the inmate’s account within minutes. Mailed checks take 3–5 business days to process after arrival. iCare care packs are added within 24 hours of payment confirmation. Always keep your receipt until the inmate confirms receipt.
What happens if I send money to the wrong inmate?
Contact the jail immediately at 262-548-7170 with your confirmation number and correct details. Funds can usually be redirected if caught quickly. However, once spent, money cannot be refunded. Double-check the inmate’s name, booking number, and pod before submitting any payment.
Are there limits on how much I can deposit?
Yes. Most platforms allow $10–$100 per transaction. There’s no strict monthly cap, but unusually large deposits may trigger review. Inmates also have spending limits per week, typically around $75–$100, depending on facility rules. Excess funds remain in the account for future use.
Can inmates use commissary money for phone calls?
Yes. Funds in the trust account can buy prepaid phone minutes through GTL’s AdvancePay system. Inmates access this via kiosks in their housing units. Rates vary, but calls are generally cheaper than standard collect calls. Family members can also prepay minutes directly through ConnectNetwork.
What items can’t be included in care packs?
Prohibited items include glass containers, aerosols, lighters, weapons, drugs, magazines with nude images, and electronics. All food must be factory-sealed and non-perishable. The jail inspects every pack. Violations result in confiscation and possible disciplinary action against the inmate.
How do I know if my loved one is still at Waukesha County Jail?
Check the official inmate roster online. It updates hourly and includes release dates. If the person isn’t listed, they may have been transferred to state prison, released, or moved to another facility. Call 262-548-7170 for confirmation—but note that staff cannot give legal advice or detailed case information without authorization.
Official Resources:
Waukesha County Jail Division: https://www.waukeshacounty.gov/JailDivision/
Inmate Account Deposits: https://www.waukeshacounty.gov/jail-division/inmate-account-deposits/
Current Inmate List: https://www.waukeshacounty.gov/CurrentInmateList/
Jail Deposits by Mail: https://www.waukeshacounty.gov/JailDeposits/
Visitation Scheduling: https://waukeshacountywi.gtlvisitme.com/
Phone: 262-548-7170
Address: 515 West Moreland Blvd., Waukesha, WI 53188