What action should be taken if an inmate's account does not have enough money for an expenditure?

The correct action to take when an inmate's account does not have enough money for an expenditure is to notify the inmate. This communication is essential because it informs the inmate about the status of their account and the reason why the transaction cannot be completed. Understanding the balance of their account allows the inmate to make informed decisions regarding any additional funding they may need for future transactions.

This process ensures transparency and maintains the trust between the inmate and the jail staff, fostering a respectful environment. Inmates have the right to be aware of their financial status and the inability to facilitate purchases based on their account balance.

While notifying the officer in charge, transferring funds from another account, or attempting to purchase on credit may seem like viable alternatives, they do not prioritize informing the inmate directly about their financial situation.