I have a sister in Alderson who has a history of lying and stealing from me and my mother. She is mentally unstable, I understand that... but I also don't think it excuses her from stealing everything from her family (especially without showing any real remorse). But she is my sister and I really would like to help her get her life straitened out. I know that if she wont accept my help, then I'll just have to live with that and eventually cut her out of my life. (ok I'm done venting)...

My current question is about the Cost of Incarceration Fee. My sister told me about this and tried to put it in a way that she had to pay "rent" to stay there and that I had to send her $75. I tried to tell her that it was not my responsibility to pay this fee (because it really isn't, and she has already taken enough from me). And she says that if she doesn't pay it, that they will not let her out.

Now I would think that whatever this fee is, they would require her to pay it once she got out of prison by getting a job. Can they keep her in there for a longer time for not paying this fee? I found something on it at the bop website, but it didn't make much sense to me. If she doesn't pay this, will she not be able to get out early on good behavior?

My sister has already told me so many stories that I don't believe... part of me wants to stay strong, but I also don't want to deny her anything if she's really being honest. I just don't know what to do...

Thanks in advance.

Wayne

I'm moving this to the Federal Prison Forum where you might get the information you need.

Sorry, I don't have an answer for you, but I am glad your here on PTO as this is by far the best network for prisoners and their families ... I wish you and yours all the best! Maybe when Greyghost peaks his head in he can tell you more about the specifics ...

Wayne, they will give her a job in prison and she can pay the fee with her earnings $.12 per hour. She only has to pay $25 per quarter to participate in the inmate financial responsibility program. Sounds to me like she just wants you to send her money for the phone and commissary.

I've done some extra research on the subject. And it says that if the federal court waves her fines, then she can be exempt from paying the COI fee. And that is the case in her situation.

Can you give me more information on the inmate financial responsibility program though? is it part of the COI, or IS IT the COI?

thanks again...

Wayne


Wayne, they will give her a job in prison and she can pay the fee with her earnings $.12 per hour. She only has to pay $25 per quarter to participate in the inmate financial responsibility program. Sounds to me like she just wants you to send her money for the phone and commissary.

I don't have an answer...but I think someone will be along with more information on this.

As a fellow Marylander...just wanted to extend a warm welcome!

There is no cost of incarceration fee in federal prison. The only thing she would have to pay, if there were no fines or restitution, is a Special Assesment Fee, and usually that is $100 per count that she was charged with. That is something they would take out of her account every 3 months, $25.

The financial responsiblity program A/K/A (IFRP) speaks that in order to recieve good time, or particpate in RDAP one must participate if they have fines, assements, or restitution to pay ... shrekney is right about the $25.00 per quater, however, I have heard from those at Alderson, they try to make the inmate pay far more then what is required, and they will tell them they have to OR else ... I don't know about the COIF stuff, but I would think if she was unable to pay fines ... In other words the judge DIDN'T order fines to be paid then I don't know how Alderson can expect her to pay the COIF?? I am sure someone can elaborate far more then me ... Hope this helps!! :)

The Inmate Financial Responsibility Program is for people who have fines or restitution to pay. Cost of Incarceration is having to pay for your own incarceration.

If you are receiving enough money from home, they will ask you to pay more than $25 per quarter. If you have the money and can afford it, it is always better just to pay it so you don't get hassled.

Welcome Wayne!

My sister is currently in Alderson and has been there several months. Feel free to PM with any questions, I'll do my best to answer. I have to agree with cjjack - there is no COI fee that I am aware of. I send my sis money for her court-ordered restitution - but that is all she is required to pay. (That is where the IFRP and $25/quarter comes in). If there is no fines, special assessment fee or restitution, there aren't any fees for just staying at the prison.

Your sister may want money for phone, etc. I believe there is a $75 allowance per month that can be used for phone time, stamps etc. Could it be that she is mixing them up.

There is no cost of incarceration fee in federal prison. The only thing she would have to pay, if there were no fines or restitution, is a Special Assesment Fee, and usually that is $100 per count that she was charged with. That is something they would take out of her account every 3 months, $25.hi i have a question i will be going to alderson in january if i pay my special assesment fee of 200 dollars before i go in do i have to pay the 25 dollars every 3 months thank you if u can give me the information and is there smoking allowed there?

Sorry to be so long answering, no smoking in any federal facility for inmates or visitors. If you could pay the assessment fee before going in that would be best since then you are not subject to the finacial responsibilty payment. If you do pay the payment get 2 certified copies of receipt of funds from the clerk of court. Mail one to yourself the day you surrender and leave the other with someone in case the first gets lost or misfiled. I know it is hard to believe but that does happen. If you do not have proof of payment at your first team they will require you to participate till payment is furnished and believe me getting a refund from the BOP is hard to do.