Bergen County Jail commissary gives inmates a way to buy food, hygiene items, and other essentials while they stay at the facility. The system runs through Access Securepak, a secure online platform approved by the Bergen County Sheriff’s Office. Each inmate has a personal account that family members can add money to using a credit card, debit card, or electronic check. The jail limits how much each person can spend—$200 per month—to keep things fair and responsible. Inmates use these funds to buy snacks, soap, toothbrushes, paper, pens, and phone minutes. The commissary also supports care packages, which families can send up to two times each month. These packages must follow strict rules about what’s allowed and cannot go over $100 in total value. All orders go through the same portal, and shipments usually arrive within five to eight business days. Tracking numbers update automatically so families know when their package is received, inspected, and delivered.
How to Add Money to a Bergen County Jail Commissary Account
Families can add funds to an inmate’s commissary account by visiting the Access Securepak website. First, create a free user account with your email and a strong password. Then select “New Jersey” from the state menu and choose “Bergen County Jail” from the facility list. You’ll need the inmate’s six-digit ID number, which you can find using the online inmate lookup tool. Once logged in, click “Deposit Funds” and enter the amount you want to send. The system accepts Visa, MasterCard, and electronic checks from U.S. banks. Deposits are limited to $300 per calendar month per sender. After payment, the funds appear in the inmate’s account within minutes. The inmate can then use this balance to shop for approved items directly from their cell. All transactions are secure and encrypted to protect your financial information.
What Items Can Inmates Buy Through Commissary?
Inmates at Bergen County Jail can purchase a variety of essential and comfort items using their commissary balance. Approved products include nutrition bars, chips, cookies, and instant coffee for extra energy and snacks. Hygiene kits contain soap, shampoo, toothpaste, toothbrushes, deodorant, and disposable razors. Writing supplies like paper, envelopes, and pens help inmates stay in touch with loved ones. Prepaid telephone cards let them make calls home, with options for 30-day plans that include set minute amounts. Some items come in different brands or sizes, but all must meet jail safety standards. Prohibited items include anything sharp, electronic, or perishable. The online store shows real-time inventory so you know what’s available before ordering. Prices are clearly listed, and most items cost between $1 and $10.
Sending Care Packages to Bergen County Jail
Families who want to send care packages must use the Access Securepak portal—no outside vendors or direct mail are allowed. Start by logging into your account and selecting the inmate you’re sending to. Choose from the list of approved items, which include snack packs, hygiene products, and seasonal clothing like socks or undershirts. Each package must not exceed $100 in retail value, and inmates can receive no more than two packages per month. If an inmate is under disciplinary review or on segregation status, they may be blocked from receiving packages until their status changes. Once you place your order, the system checks it against jail rules and removes any banned items automatically. Packages ship directly from Access Securepak’s warehouse and arrive at the jail in five to eight business days. You’ll get a tracking number and email updates at every stage: received, inspected, and delivered.
Commissary Spending Limits and Rules
The Bergen County Sheriff’s Office sets clear limits to ensure fairness and security. Each inmate can spend up to $200 per month on commissary items. This cap applies to all purchases, including food, hygiene products, and phone time. Families can deposit up to $300 per month into an inmate’s account, but only $200 can be used for shopping. Any unused funds stay in the account for future months. Care packages have separate limits: two per inmate per month, with a combined value not exceeding $100. These rules apply to all inmates unless they’re under disciplinary action. Violations of package policies—like trying to send contraband—can result in temporary or permanent loss of commissary privileges. The system tracks all activity in real time, so both staff and families can monitor spending and compliance.
How to Track a Commissary Package or Deposit
After placing an order or making a deposit, families can track progress through the Access Securepak dashboard. Log in with your credentials and select “Order History” or “Package Status.” A color-coded progress bar shows where your shipment stands: blue for “Processing,” yellow for “In Transit,” green for “Delivered.” Email alerts are sent automatically when the package is received by jail staff, after inspection, and once it’s handed to the inmate. For deposits, the balance updates instantly in the inmate’s account. If you don’t see expected funds or packages, contact Access Securepak customer service at 800-546-6283. They can check records, resolve delays, or explain why an item was rejected. Always keep your order confirmation number handy for faster support.
Legal Rights and Support Services for Inmates
Inmates at Bergen County Jail have protected rights under New Jersey law, especially N.J. Stat. § 2C:23-4, which guarantees access to commissary services. They can also request legal counsel through the county public defender’s office if they cannot afford a lawyer. Medical care is provided through a partnership with Anne Arundel County Hospital network, ensuring timely treatment for illnesses or injuries. Religious needs are met by certified chaplains who lead multifaith services and provide spiritual guidance. A written handbook given to each detainee explains visitation rights, how to request medical help, and steps to file grievances. These resources ensure inmates are treated fairly and humanely during their stay.
Finding an Inmate in Bergen County Jail
To locate someone held at Bergen County Jail, use the official inmate lookup tool updated every hour. Search by full name, booking number, or SID (State Identification Number). Results show a recent photo, charges, bond amount, expected release date, and upcoming court dates. The database pulls directly from the county’s criminal justice system, so information is accurate and current. Families can also call the jail information line at 201-336-3500 for assistance. Staff can confirm booking details and explain visitation schedules. Always have the inmate’s full name and date of birth ready to speed up the search.
Visitation Rules and Scheduling
Visits at Bergen County Jail are scheduled through an online portal managed by the Sheriff’s Office. Family members must register in advance and be on the approved visitor list. Each visit lasts 30 minutes unless extended by supervisory staff. Professional visitors—like lawyers, doctors, or social workers—can come between 7:00 A.M. and 9:30 P.M., seven days a week. They must show a government-issued photo ID and, if applicable, a current bar card or professional license. The Tour Commander checks credentials before allowing entry. Personal visits follow different hours and may require background checks. Always check the latest rules before arriving, as policies can change based on security needs.
Phone Services and Communication Options
Inmates can make calls using prepaid accounts managed through ConnectNetwork. Families can add money to an AdvancePay account so inmates can call home without charging the recipient. Phone time can also be bought directly through commissary purchases, with 30-day plans offering set minute amounts. All calls are monitored and recorded for security purposes. Inmates cannot receive incoming calls but can leave voicemails if the family’s phone accepts them. For urgent messages, contact the jail’s main line at 201-336-3500. Staff will relay critical information when appropriate.
Special Rules for ICE Detainees
The Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) unit at Bergen County Jail follows federal guidelines for sending items. Approved shipments may include legal documents, basic clothing, and non-perishable food that meets nutritional standards. All packages go through photo ID verification and contraband scanning before delivery. Perishable foods, electronics, and cash are strictly prohibited. Senders must use Access Securepak or other ICE-approved vendors. Failure to follow rules can result in package rejection or loss of sending privileges. Contact ICE staff through the jail for specific questions about detainee status or allowed items.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bergen County Jail Commissary
Many families have similar questions about how commissary works at Bergen County Jail. Below are answers to the most common concerns based on official policies and real user experiences.
Can I send money directly to an inmate’s account?
Yes, but only through the Access Securepak portal. Cash, checks, or money orders sent by mail will be returned or confiscated. The online system is the only approved method for adding funds. Deposits are instant and secure, and you’ll receive a confirmation email right away.
What happens if my package is rejected?
If a package contains prohibited items, Access Securepak removes them before shipping. You’ll get an email listing what was taken out. If too many items are banned, the whole package may be canceled. In that case, you’ll receive a refund minus a small processing fee. Always review the allowed items list before ordering.
How often can I deposit money?
You can deposit up to $300 per calendar month per sender. There’s no limit on the number of deposits, but the total cannot exceed $300. The inmate can spend up to $200 of that amount each month on commissary items.
Can inmates share commissary funds?
No. Each inmate has a separate account, and transfers between accounts are not allowed. This prevents misuse and keeps records clear for audits and security reviews.
What if my loved one is moved to another facility?
If an inmate is transferred, their commissary balance stays with them. Contact the new facility to learn their rules for deposits and packages. Some jails use different vendors, so you may need to create a new account.
Are there fees for using Access Securepak?
Yes, small processing fees apply to credit card and electronic check transactions. These fees cover payment processing and system maintenance. The exact amount appears during checkout before you confirm your deposit.
How do I report a problem with my order?
Call Access Securepak customer service at 800-546-6283 or 636-888-7003. Have your order number and inmate ID ready. Staff can track shipments, explain rejections, or help recover lost funds.
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, visit the official Bergen County Sheriff’s Office website or call the jail directly. Always verify policies before sending money or packages, as rules may change to reflect safety or legal requirements.
Official Website: https://sheriffwp.bergen.org/inmate-information/inmate-commissary/
Phone Number: 201-336-3500
Visiting Hours: Vary by inmate status; check online portal for scheduled times
Address: 160 South River Street, Hackensack, NJ 07601