How to Pick Up an Inmate's Property

What property is held

At booking, the jail inventories and stores personal items such as clothing, wallets, keys, phones and jewelry. These items stay in storage while the person is in custody and are returned at release.

Release to a family member

In most counties, the person in custody must sign a property release form that authorizes a specific person to pick up their items. Families usually can't collect property without that authorization.

Bring a valid government-issued photo ID that matches the name on the release. Pickup usually happens at a property window at the facility or at a central property location during set hours. Check the Sheriff's website for times and locations.

Items you may not be able to collect

Items held as evidence aren't released through the jail. Contact the arresting agency's property and evidence unit instead. Cash in the person's possession is usually deposited into their inmate account. See our guide on releasing money from a person's account.

Time limits

Jails may only hold property for a limited time after release or transfer to state prison. Unclaimed property may be disposed of under county rules. If the person is going to state prison, arrange pickup soon, because property generally doesn't go with them.

Before you go

This guide is general information, not legal advice. Rules differ by county and facility and can change, so always confirm with the official agency.