How Do Prisoners Make Money?

When we think of life behind bars, the notion of prisoners having money might seem perplexing. Join us as we explore why prisoners need money and how they make it.

Why Do Prisoners Need Money?

Prisons typically offer basic provisions for inmates: food, clothes, and hygiene supplies. However, the quality and availability of these essentials vary from state to state. While toothpaste, soap, and letter-writing supplies may be accessible to those with limited means, other supplies like deodorant, shampoo, sneakers, and warm clothing for winter are often only obtainable by those who can afford them.

Commissary items, in particular, play a significant role in why prisoners desire money. These items, purchased from prison stores, include snacks, personal hygiene products, and stationery.

Recent increases in commissary prices have also made it harder for inmates to provide for themselves. For instance, an 8-ounce bag of Maxwell House coffee increased from $8.45 to $10.01. A jar of mayonnaise almost doubled in price, from $3.61 to $6.12.

How Prisoners Earn Money for Commissary

While many prisons do have jobs available for inmates, they are often highly competitive, and earning a substantial income from prison jobs is difficult. The average prison wage is capped at 52 cents per hour, with many individuals earning less. This means that purchasing something as basic as a $3 tube of toothpaste can take hours or even days of labor. Furthermore, in some states, prisoners aren't compensated at all for their work. So, how do these prisoners make money?

Outside of prison jobs, incarcerated individuals often engage in side hustles. They barter stamps or commissary items for various goods and services, ranging from hand-drawn greeting cards to homemade meals and even legal assistance. This informal economy becomes essential for many prisoners, enabling them to access the comforts that go beyond what the prison system provides.

While the concept of prisoners having money may seem counterintuitive, the reality is that financial transactions and economies are an integral part of the prison experience.

Reference: Prison Money Diaries: What People Really Make (and Spend) Behind Bars