How Money Works at Richmond CI
Richmond Correctional Institution uses ViaPath/GTL, operating as ConnectNetwork, for all fund deposits. The same vendor handles trust fund deposits for commissary and AdvancePay deposits for phone calls. These may be separate balances, so confirm with ConnectNetwork if you are not sure where a deposit lands.
You need two things for every deposit: the person’s full legal name and their OPUS Number. Find the OPUS Number using the NC OPI inmate search. A deposit without the correct OPUS Number can be delayed or returned.
Only approved visitors can send money to someone at Richmond CI. If you are not on the approved visitor list, your deposit may be rejected. Get on the list first. See the visitation guide for the approval process.
Option 1: Online at ConnectNetwork.com
Go to connectnetwork.com, create a free account if you do not have one, find Richmond Correctional Institution, enter the person’s name and OPUS Number, choose an amount, and pay with a debit or credit card. Deposits typically post within a few hours. Service fees range from $2.48 to $8.16 depending on the amount and are shown before you confirm.
Option 2: ConnectNetwork App
Download the ConnectNetwork app on your phone or tablet. Log in or create an account, find Richmond Correctional Institution, and follow the same steps as the online option. The app is available for iOS and Android.
Option 3: Phone
Call ConnectNetwork to make a deposit by phone:
- Trust fund (commissary): 888-428-1845
- AdvancePay (phone calls): 800-483-8314
Have the person’s OPUS Number and your payment card ready. Phone deposits carry a slightly higher service fee than online deposits.
Option 4: Western Union
Use the Western Union website, app, or an agent location. Select “Pay Bills” and search for payment code NCDAC TRUST. Enter the person’s name and OPUS Number. A $3.00 service fee applies. Processing time is typically one business day.
Option 5: Money Order (No Fee)
Mail a money order payable to TouchPay to:
TouchPay Holdings LLC
PO Box 174
Houston, TX 77001-0174
Include the person’s full legal name and OPUS Number on the memo line. Write your full return name and address on the envelope. Money orders are the only fee-free option. Allow additional processing time for mail.
NC Inmate Package Program
Personal care items and approved goods can be ordered through the NC Inmate Package program at ncinmatepackage.com. This is separate from the ConnectNetwork trust fund. Approved vendors are listed on the ncinmatepackage.com site. Do not send packages to the facility directly; they will not be accepted.
What the Money Covers
Trust fund deposits go toward commissary purchases: snacks, hygiene items, writing supplies, and clothing. AdvancePay deposits go toward phone calls made through ViaPath. These are typically separate balances. If you want to cover both, you may need to make two separate deposits. Confirm with ConnectNetwork when you set up the account.
What Happens to Funds After a Transfer
If the person transfers to a different NC state facility, their ConnectNetwork balance typically follows them. If the transfer is out of state or to a different system, contact ConnectNetwork at 877-650-4249 to confirm what happens to the funds.
Troubleshooting a Failed Deposit
If a deposit does not post within 24 to 48 hours:
- Confirm the OPUS Number is correct using the NC OPI inmate search.
- Confirm the person is still at Richmond CI and has not transferred.
- Call ConnectNetwork customer support at 877-650-4249.
Common causes for a rejected deposit include an incorrect OPUS Number, a name mismatch, or the sender not being on the approved visitor list.
Account Limits and Restrictions
NC DAC sets rules on how much money can be held in a trust fund account and what it can be used for. Court-ordered restitution or holds may reduce available funds. If the person mentions a hold on their account, contact the facility at (910) 281-3161 for details.
All information on this page comes directly from official government and facility sources.
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Last verified July 8, 2026.