How do I pay restitution while incarcerated?

CDCR (or the county jail) will automatically deduct victim restitution, and, if possible, restitution fine payments from deposits in your trust account and any wages you earn.[2269] You can also make voluntary payments whenever you like.

If a friend or family member on the outside sends you money, the CDCR will automatically apply half of the sum to your restitution, with an additional 10% of that half going towards paying administrative costs.[2270] Friends and family on the outside can also send you money specifically for restitution, in which case the administrative costs are waived.[2271]

  1. 2269

    Cal. Penal Code § 2085.5 (money collected will be used to pay off direct orders (victim restitution) first, and then restitution fines). The law also authorizes CDCR and/or the county collection agency to deduct a 10% administrative fee, in addition to the restitution payments collected.

  2. 2270

    Cal. Penal Code § 2085.5.

  3. 2271

    Per conversation with representative from CDCR Victim Services.