In some cases, inmates need money in jail because state regulations require them to cover the costs of basic living items. Inmates also use money to gain access to certain personal items, sometimes in secret or against prison rules. Prison jobs offer inmates opportunities for activity and modest income.

While Federal prisons have five levels, state prisons only have three: maximum, medium, and minimum. Maximum security prisons house the most violent criminals and pose a threat to other inmates, prison guards, and society as a whole.