Federal Correctional Institution · Waseca, Minnesota
FCI Waseca
- Security level
- Low
- Medical care level
- 2 of 4
- Mental health care level
- 2 of 4
- Population
- 777
- Phone
- 507-835-8972
Last checked: November 3, 2026 (BOP documents for this prison) Intel last checked: November 3, 2026 BOP status updated: Nov 3, 2026, 9:20 pm ET News updated: Nov 3, 2026, 3:47 pm ET
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Waseca at a glance
Waseca is a low-security federal prison for women, in southern Minnesota. It has five housing units. The handbook says E Unit is the drug treatment (RDAP) unit.
- How many people
- 777 in the FCI (BOP, October 29, 2026).
- Medical care level 2
- Stable outpatients who need to see a clinician anywhere from monthly to every 6 months. Examples the BOP gives: diabetes controlled with medication, epilepsy, emphysema. Click here to read the source: BOP "Institution Care Levels for Medical Assignment," February 13, 2024 (released under FOIA 2024-03455) ↗
- Mental health care level 2
- Routine outpatient mental health care, or short crisis care such as suicide watch. The BOP does not post care levels on its website. This list is dated February 13, 2024 and came out through a public records request. Click here to read the source: BOP "Institution Care Levels for Medical Assignment," February 13, 2024 (released under FOIA 2024-03455) ↗
- Who is there
- Women. On the first day of the 2023 audit, ages ran from 21 to 72. Click here to read the source: PREA audit report, FCI Waseca (onsite November 28 to 30, 2023) ↗
- Built for
- The audit lists a capacity of 712 people and an average population of 793 over the previous 12 months. It says the prison was over capacity at some point in that year. Click here to read the source: PREA audit report, FCI Waseca (onsite November 28 to 30, 2023) ↗
- Staff
- "At FCI Waseca, both male and female staff routinely work and visit inmate housing areas." Click here to read the source: FCI Waseca Admission and Orientation Handbook (no date printed; the file was made in March 2023) ↗
- Counts
- Official counts at about midnight, 3:00 a.m., 5:00 a.m., 4:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m., plus 10:00 a.m. on weekends and federal holidays. Stand-up counts (they stand by their bed) are at 4:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m. every day, and at 10:00 a.m. on weekends and federal holidays. Click here to read the source: FCI Waseca Admission and Orientation Handbook (no date printed; the file was made in March 2023) ↗
- Movement
- They have ten minutes to get from one place to another when a move is announced. Click here to read the source: FCI Waseca Admission and Orientation Handbook (no date printed; the file was made in March 2023) ↗
How far is it from you?
Driving directions (Google Maps) → Bus or train (Google Maps) →
Plan your drive around this: No one is processed in after 2:00 p.m. The front lobby opens at 8:15 a.m. On weekends and federal holidays, no visitors are processed from 9:15 a.m. until about 10:30 a.m., or until the 10:00 a.m. count clears. Visitors may not be on the grounds before 8:15 a.m. or between 9:15 and 10:30 a.m. on those days. Visitors who arrive after 2:00 p.m. are told the visit will not happen that day.
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Visiting hours and days
| Who | Days | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Visiting room | Saturday, Sunday, Monday and federal holidays | 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. |
| Special Housing Unit (SHU) | Video sessions only. In-person visits are ordinarily not allowed. In very unusual cases, a visit may be approved in the non-contact room in the SHU. | By video |
No one is processed in after 2:00 p.m. The front lobby opens at 8:15 a.m. On weekends and federal holidays, no visitors are processed from 9:15 a.m. until about 10:30 a.m., or until the 10:00 a.m. count clears. Visitors may not be on the grounds before 8:15 a.m. or between 9:15 and 10:30 a.m. on those days. Visitors who arrive after 2:00 p.m. are told the visit will not happen that day.
No visiting Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday or Friday. The prison has a recorded message with visiting hours and updates: call 507-835-8972. Click here to read the source: WAS-5267-09e, Visiting Regulations, Institution Supplement (September 10, 2026) ↗
The rules at the door: ID, points, what you can bring
- How many people
- No more than 5 people at one time, any mix of adults and children. Exceptions must be approved ahead by the Unit Team. Children under 16 must come with a responsible adult who is on the approved list. Click here to read the source: WAS-5267-09e, Visiting Regulations, Institution Supplement (September 10, 2026) ↗
- ID
- Everyone 16 or older needs government photo ID. The rules say a driver's license, passport, or other state or federal photo ID. The visitor handout in the same document lists only a current driver's license, current state ID or current military ID. Bring a driver's license or state ID to be safe. Foreign government ID is not accepted. An ID scanner checks it. Click here to read the source: WAS-5267-09e, Visiting Regulations, Institution Supplement (September 10, 2026) ↗
- Forms
- You fill out and sign a "Notification to Visitor" form when you arrive. To get on the list, you fill out BP-A0629 (Visitor Information Form). You mail it straight back to the unit staff. Click here to read the source: WAS-5267-09e, Visiting Regulations, Institution Supplement (September 10, 2026) ↗
- Screening
- You walk through a metal detector and may be checked with a hand-held one. If a medical device sets it off, staff may need a limited visual search in private, by a staff member of the same sex. A Medical Implant Alert ID Card from a certified doctor, showing where the implant is, helps. Without one, you get a thorough pat search. Click here to read the source: WAS-5267-09e, Visiting Regulations, Institution Supplement (September 10, 2026) ↗
- Money for vending machines
- $20.00 per adult, no more than $60.00 for your group, in a clear plastic coin purse no bigger than 5 inches by 7 inches. Click here to read the source: WAS-5267-09e, Visiting Regulations, Institution Supplement (September 10, 2026) ↗
- For a baby
- A small diaper bag (18 by 14 by 8 inches) with one small receiving blanket, two unopened jars of baby food, two bottles of infant milk or formula, one small plastic container of baby wipes and three diapers. Staff check it first. No baby carriers, car seats or strollers. Click here to read the source: WAS-5267-09e, Visiting Regulations, Institution Supplement (September 10, 2026) ↗
- Medicine
- Only life-saving medicine, such as heart medicine and an asthma inhaler. Tell staff at the front entrance. They keep it at the officers' station in the visiting room. Click here to read the source: WAS-5267-09e, Visiting Regulations, Institution Supplement (September 10, 2026) ↗
- Not allowed in
- Toys, cards, wallets, purses, paperwork, keys, food, gum, mints, candy, drinks, baby carriers, car seats, lipstick, ChapStick, hairbrushes, combs, lotion, newspapers, magazines, pens, tobacco, matches, lighters, e-cigarettes, cell phones, fitness wristbands, pagers, watches and jewelry. Nothing that connects to a cell network or the internet. Lockers at the front are free for what you cannot bring; staff will not hold items for you. Click here to read the source: WAS-5267-09e, Visiting Regulations, Institution Supplement (September 10, 2026) ↗
- What not to wear
- No tight, see-through or spandex clothes, tank tops, halter tops or sleeveless shirts, clothes with holes, wrap-around skirts, hats, camouflage, sweatpants, sweatshirts, thermals, or green, khaki or orange clothes. No plunging necklines (V-necks, scoop necks) that show cleavage, chest or back. No open-toed or open-heeled shoes. Shorts and skirts must not be higher than the top of the knee. Shirts must hang at least 3 inches below the belt line. No hooded clothing. No words about gangs or profanity. Jackets, coats and sweaters only from October through May, and they are stored, not worn, during the visit. Click here to read the source: WAS-5267-09e, Visiting Regulations, Institution Supplement (September 10, 2026) ↗
- Touching
- A handshake, hug and kiss at the start and the end of the visit only. No hand holding. Infants and toddlers may sit on their lap. You sit across a table from each other. Click here to read the source: WAS-5267-09e, Visiting Regulations, Institution Supplement (September 10, 2026) ↗
- Children
- There is a room for children only and a parenting room. The children's room closes 15 minutes before the end of the visiting day. Click here to read the source: WAS-5267-09e, Visiting Regulations, Institution Supplement (September 10, 2026) ↗
- When it gets crowded
- The Duty Officer first asks for volunteers: people who live within 100 miles of Waseca are asked to end their visits first. After that, visits end first in, first out. Click here to read the source: WAS-5267-09e, Visiting Regulations, Institution Supplement (September 10, 2026) ↗
- Video visits
- Video sessions by web-cam are done through TRULINCS with approved email contacts. Each lasts 25 minutes and is charged to their account. Only one adult may be on screen at a time. Click here to read the source: FCI Waseca Admission and Orientation Handbook (no date printed; the file was made in March 2023) ↗
How to get on the visiting list
- Immediate family (parents, step-parents, foster parents, brothers, sisters, spouse and children) is ordinarily approved right away if it is in their Pre-Sentence Report. New arrivals get an Immediate Family Visiting Request form in the handbook.
- For everyone else, your loved one mails you the visitor form, BP-A0629. You fill it out and mail it straight back to the unit staff, not through your loved one.
- Unit staff check that you knew them before prison. They may ask for proof, like co-signed leases, utility bills, or dated and signed letters. Anyone who is not immediate family gets a background check (NCIC). The Warden must approve exceptions and anyone with a conviction.
- The list ordinarily holds no more than 10 friends and associates, plus family.
- The counselor tells your loved one who was approved or denied. They tell you. Do not drive until you are approved.
- The list can be changed at any time.
- Transferred from another prison? The approved list ordinarily carries over.
- New arrivals and people passing through ("holdover"): only immediate family can visit until a list is made. Staff make the list within 5 working days.
Driving directions (from the BOP)
- About the prison
- FCI Waseca is at 1000 University Drive, S.W., Waseca, Minnesota 56093, just off U.S. Highway 14 between Owatonna and Mankato.
- From Minneapolis
- I-35 South to Highway 14 West. Turn right on Highway 13 North and follow the signs to the prison.
- From Iowa
- I-35 North to Highway 14 West. Turn right on Highway 13 North and follow the signs to the prison.
- From Chicago
- 94W to 90W to I-35 North to Highway 14 West. Turn right on Highway 13 North and follow the signs to the prison.
- Local transportation
- Flying Time Taxi, Waseca: (507) 521-6000. Jefferson Bus Lines, Waseca: (507) 625-3977. Tonna Taxi Service, Owatonna: (507) 451-4215.
Street address for your GPS: 1000 University Dr, Sw, Waseca, Mn 56093. Click here to read the source: FCI Waseca Admission and Orientation Handbook (no date printed; the file was made in March 2023) ↗
The BOP beats to its own drum. The front desk has the final say. Keep a spare outfit in the car.
FCI Waseca
Official rules (PDF) No Spanish version posted
| Skirts and dresses | Shorts and skirts may not be above the top of the knee standing. |
|---|---|
| Shorts | Shorts allowed only if they reach the top of the knee. |
| Colors to avoid | No khaki pants, shirts or skirts. No green pants, shirts or skirts. No orange pants, shirts or skirts. |
| Leggings, spandex | No spandex clothing. No tight clothing. |
| Bras and metal | Underwire bras may trigger detectors, requiring a pat search. |
| Camouflage, military | No camouflage clothing. |
| Shoes | No open-toed or open-heeled shoes; shoes required. No sandals or slip-ons. |
| Children | Younger children allowed outerwear year-round. |
All 28 rules, in the BOP's own words
Length and fit
- Shorts and skirts may not be above the top of the knee standing.
* Shorts and skirts which are higher than the top of the knee when standing
- Shorts allowed only if they reach the top of the knee.
* Shorts and skirts which are higher than the top of the knee when standing
- No tank tops or sleeveless shirts.
* Halter tops/sleeveless shirts
- No plunging V-neck or scoop necklines exposing back, cleavage or chest.
* Plunging necklines that expose back, cleavage or chest (i.e., V-necks, scoop necks)
- Shirts must hang at least 3 inches below the belt line.
* No shirts that hang less than 3 inches below the belt line.
- No halter tops.
* Halter tops/sleeveless shirts
- No transparent clothing.
* Transparent clothing * Spandex clothing
- No tight clothing.
* Tight clothing * Transparent clothing
- No spandex clothing.
* Spandex clothing * Tank tops
- No holes in clothing.
* Holes in clothing
- No sweatpants, sweatshirts or thermals.
* Sweatpants, sweatshirts, thermals
Colors and uniforms
- No khaki pants, shirts or skirts.
* Green, khaki, or orange-colored pants, shirts, or skirts
- No green pants, shirts or skirts.
* Green, khaki, or orange-colored pants, shirts, or skirts
- No orange pants, shirts or skirts.
* Green, khaki, or orange-colored pants, shirts, or skirts
- No camouflage clothing.
* Camouflage clothing
Bras, underwear and metal
- All visitors must wear undergarments.
It is necessary for all visitors to wear undergarments and shoes in the Visiting Room to ensure their safety.
- Underwire bras may trigger detectors, requiring a pat search.
some items of clothing (e.g., underwire bra) may trigger the metal detectors, thus requiring a pat search for the same reason.
Shoes
- No open-toed or open-heeled shoes; shoes required.
* Opened toed or open heeled shoes, (i.e., sandals or slip-ons for both male & female).
- No sandals or slip-ons.
(i.e., sandals or slip-ons for both male & female).
Hats, hoods and coats
- No hats or caps; no scarves or gloves.
* Hats or caps
- No hooded sweatshirts/coats or hoods concealing head or face.
* No hooded sweatshirts/coats, clothing with hoods which conceal one’s head/facial area.
- Jackets, coats, sweaters only October-May; stored during visit.
* Jackets, coats, or sweaters will only be allowed during the months of October through May.
- Hats/scarves with wigs for chemo or hair loss need doctor documentation.
Hats and/or scarves with wigs utilized for chemotherapy patients or hair-loss diseases must include documentation from a certified physician
Children
- Younger children allowed outerwear year-round.
Younger children will be allowed appropriate outer wear year-round.
Everything else
- No questionable wording such as gang affiliation or profanity.
* No attire with questionable wording, (i.e., gang affiliation, profanity, etc.)
- No wrap-around skirts or thermals.
* Wrap-around skirts
If they say no
- Visitors not in proper attire will be denied a visit.
Visitors who are not in proper attire will be denied a visit.
- Questionable clothing cleared through IDO or Operations Lieutenant.
* Any questionable clothing will be cleared through the Institution Duty Officer or the Operations Lieutenant
Inmate mailing address
JOHN ANTHONY SMITH-JONES Reg. No. 12345-678 FCI Waseca P.O. Box 1731 Waseca, Mn 56093
The handbook gives the address as P.O. Box 1731, Waseca, MN 56093. Put their name, register number and unit on the envelope. Outgoing mail from them must carry a mailing label printed on TRULINCS. Click here to read the source: FCI Waseca Admission and Orientation Handbook (no date printed; the file was made in March 2023) ↗
Use the P.O. Box only. Never mail to the street address (1000 University Dr, Sw, Waseca, Mn 56093).
- Mail days
- First-class mail is handed out Monday through Friday evenings, except holidays. Click here to read the source: FCI Waseca Admission and Orientation Handbook (no date printed; the file was made in March 2023) ↗
- How much
- No limit on the number of letters, unless it becomes an unreasonable burden. No layered or musical cards. They may keep no more than 25 letters (greeting cards count) in their living space. They may receive 25 photographs (no Polaroids) a day and keep 25 loose photographs; the rest go in an album. Click here to read the source: FCI Waseca Admission and Orientation Handbook (no date printed; the file was made in March 2023) ↗
- Third-party mail
- Third-party mail is not allowed in or out. Do not forward other people's mail or printed emails to them. Click here to read the source: FCI Waseca Admission and Orientation Handbook (no date printed; the file was made in March 2023) ↗
- Packages
- They cannot get packages in the mail unless a department head approved the item first. Tennis shoes, athletic clothing and hobby craft items cannot be mailed in; they are bought at the commissary. Click here to read the source: FCI Waseca Admission and Orientation Handbook (no date printed; the file was made in March 2023) ↗
- Legal mail
- The front must say "Special Mail-Open Only in the Presence of the Inmate" or similar. The attorney must be identified on the envelope ("Esquire" does not count). It is opened in front of them and not read. Click here to read the source: FCI Waseca Admission and Orientation Handbook (no date printed; the file was made in March 2023) ↗
- Forwarding
- General mail is forwarded for 30 days. Newspapers and magazines are not forwarded. Click here to read the source: FCI Waseca Admission and Orientation Handbook (no date printed; the file was made in March 2023) ↗
- Money
- Never put money in a letter. Funds go to the BOP lockbox: P.O. Box 474701, Des Moines, Iowa 50947-0001, with their name and register number. Do not enclose personal checks, letters or pictures. Click here to read the source: FCI Waseca Admission and Orientation Handbook (no date printed; the file was made in March 2023) ↗
Books and magazines: at a low security prison, soft-cover books and magazines can come from anyone. Hardcovers only from a publisher or bookstore.
How to send money to an inmate here
Money never goes to Waseca. It goes to the BOP, and the BOP puts it on their account. There are 3 ways. Each one below shows you the actual form and exactly what to write in each box, already filled in with their name and number.
First, they must sign the power-of-attorney form (BP-A0407) when they arrive. Until they do, MoneyGram and Western Union money cannot post. Click here to read the source: Program Statement 4500.13, Trust Fund/Deposit Fund Manual (May 7, 2026) ↗
1. Postal money order Our pick
"Postal" means the U.S. Post Office. A postal money order is one you buy at the counter of a U.S. Post Office, from the United States Postal Service. Money orders sold at Walmart, a grocery store, a bank, Western Union, MoneyGram or a check-cashing store are not postal money orders.
Why it matters: a postal money order has no hold. Once the BOP's lockbox in Des Moines gets it, it goes on their account. Every other money order and every personal or company check is put on a 15-day hold first, and the 15 days only start when the lockbox receives the envelope. Add the days it spends in the mail, and it can be close to three weeks before they can spend it.Click here to read the source: BOP, Sending money by U.S. mail ↗ Click here to read the source: FCI Waseca Admission and Orientation Handbook (no date printed; the file was made in March 2023) ↗ Foreign money orders and checks are held 45 days. The postal money order is also the cheapest way.
The Post Office's own steps
- Decide the amount. Up to $1,000 in one money order.
- Go to any Post Office.
- Bring cash or a debit card. The Post Office does not take credit cards for money orders.
- Fill it out at the counter with the clerk. Use the boxes below.
- Pay the amount plus the fee: $2.65 for up to $500, $3.75 for $500.01 to $1,000.
- Keep your receipt. You need it to track the money order or replace it if it is lost.Click here to read the source: U.S. Postal Service, Money Orders ↗
- Pay toJOHN ANTHONY SMITH-JONEStheir committed name, exactly as the BOP Inmate Locator shows it
- Address (under Pay to)Federal Bureau of Prisons, P.O. Box 474701, Des Moines, IA 50947-0001
- FromMARIA SMITH-JONESyour name
- Address (under From)123 Main Street, Trenton, NJ 08608your address
- MemoReg. No. 12345678their 8-digit register number, no dash
Unconfirmed: the BOP does not say in writing what goes on the "Pay to" line. Their name is what families use. The name and number on the envelope are what the BOP requires.
123 Main Street
Trenton, NJ 08608
Federal Bureau of Prisons JOHN ANTHONY SMITH-JONES 12345678 Post Office Box 474701 Des Moines, Iowa 50947-0001
Lost it? Tracking and replacing a money order
- Keep the receipt. You need the serial number, post office number and amount to track it at tools.usps.com/money-orders.htm.
- Lost or stolen: take the receipt to any post office and ask for a Money Order Inquiry. It costs $23 and can take up to 60 days.
2. MoneyGram
Posts in about 2 to 4 hours if sent 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Eastern, any day. Up to $300 per payment. In a store, you fill out the blue ExpressPayment form. This is the BOP's own filled-in sample:
- Company NameFederal Bureau of Prisons
- City & StateWashington, DC
- Receive Code7932always the same
- Account Number of the Bill to Pay12345678SMITHJONESone letter or number per box
- Amount to Payup to $300
- Message to Biller or Beneficiary NameJOHN ANTHONY SMITH-JONES
Top section: your own name, address, phone and signature. Pay cash. Keep the receipt with the reference number.
Unconfirmed: some stores now type it into a screen instead of using the paper form. The boxes are the same.
Doing it online or in the MoneyGram app instead
- Go to moneygram.com (Pay Bills) or the MoneyGram app and log in or sign up.
- Search the biller 7932 or "Federal Bureau of Prisons."
- Enter the amount (up to $300) and the account number
12345678SMITHJONES. - Pay with a debit or credit card. A credit card can charge a cash-advance fee.
3. Western Union
Posts in about 2 to 4 hours. In a store, ask for the Quick Collect form ("To Send Money Form for Bill Payments"). Do not ask for a regular money transfer. This is a real Quick Collect form filled in with the BOP's values:
- Dollar Amountyour amount
- Pay toFederal Bureau of Prisons
- Code CityFBOP, DC
- AttentionJOHN ANTHONY SMITH-JONES
- Account # with Company (in the SENDER section: this is where people get lost)12345678SMITHJONES
Leave Promo Code blank. Put your own name, phone and address in the rest of the Sender section and sign at 3. Pay cash (some stores take debit). You get a 10-digit tracking number (MTCN). Keep it.
Unconfirmed: some stores have the blue Quick Collect form, some a "Pay a Bill" section, and some a phone to an agent.
Doing it online (Send2Corrections), screen by screen
You need a photo ID to set up the account: your name must match your ID exactly.
- Go to send2corrections.com or the Send2Corrections app. Log in or register.
- "Who are you sending to?" Choose the facility Federal Bureau of Prisons (FBOP DC).
- Receiver first name, middle name (optional), last name: exactly as the BOP has it.
- Commissary number: type only the 8 digits,
12345678. No dash, no name. The site adds the last name itself and shows the full account number in a grey box you cannot type in. - Ignore the pop-up that says "BOP number will not work." That text shows for every prison. The register number is what works.
- Amount: $1 to $300. Pay by card, or choose "Pay Cash (in-store)" and pay at a Western Union counter within 12 hours, or it cancels.
Hyphenated last name? The site drops the hyphen: Smith-Jones becomes 12345678SMITHJONES.
Money sent to the wrong person is not returned by Western Union. Western Union payments cannot be changed after they are sent.
Commissary list: what they can buy and what it costs
Waseca's handbook (no date printed) says the monthly spending validation is $360.00, in two parts of $180 on the 1st and 15th of the month. National BOP policy (PS 4500.13, May 7, 2026) raised the monthly limit to $460, plus $50 more in November and December. The handbook has not caught up. A person on commissary restriction can spend only $25.00 a month. Click here to read the source: FCI Waseca Admission and Orientation Handbook (no date printed; the file was made in March 2023) ↗ Click here to read the source: Program Statement 4500.13, Trust Fund/Deposit Fund Manual (May 7, 2026) ↗
How shopping works at Waseca
- Sales are Monday through Thursday: 6:15 to 7:30 a.m., 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. They shop once a week. (Handbook.)
- Their shopping day depends on the last two digits of the first five digits of their register number. It changes every quarter and is posted on the commissary bulletin board. (Handbook.)
- Over-the-counter medicine can be bought any day, Monday to Thursday, with an "OTC Medications Only" form. (Handbook.)
- They put their list through the slot in the commissary door. When it is ready, they are called by name and laundry number. They are called three times only. If they miss the third call, they lose their shopping that week. (Handbook.)
- Stamps: up to 20 first-class stamps a week, and no more than 60 at one time. Copy cards: 2 per shopping day. Photo vouchers: up to 10 per sale. (Handbook.)
- All sales are final once they leave the window. Prices can change without notice. (Commissary list.)
(K) kosher, (H) halal. A number like "max 3" is the most they can buy at once. From the official list approved June 2025 (the list reads "REV 06/2025"). Prices change without notice. Click here to read the source: FCI Waseca Commissary List (revision 06/2025) ↗
Stamps, copy cards and photo tickets (stamps: 14.60 total)
- .01 Stamp$0.01
- Additional Ounce$0.24
- Single Stamp$0.73
- 1.00 Stamp$1.00
- Book Of Stamps$14.60
- Copy Card max 2$7.80
- Photo Ticket max 10$1.00
Radios and tablets
- Sangean Radio$58.50
- Score Tablet$141.70
Watches and watch batteries (listed under a second "RADIO/MP3" heading)
- Men's Timex max 1$21.45
- Women's watch max 1$22.85
- G Shock Watch max 1$99.45
- Watch battery CR 1620$0.15
- Watch battery CR 1220$2.60
- Watch battery CR 1616$2.60
- Watch battery 2016$2.85
- Watch battery 2025$2.85
- Watch battery 2032$2.60
- Watch battery SR626SW$3.90
Ice cream (limit 1; write in the flavor)
- Ice cream, pint max 1$3.10
Water (limit 1)
- Water$3.55
Clothing (limit 2 Each)
- T-Shirt (S, M, L, XL, 2X, 3X)$7.15
- Long Sleeve T-Shirt (S, M, L, XL, 2X, 3X)$11.70
- Cotton Shorts (S, M, L, XL, 2X, 3X)$11.70
- Thermal Top (S, M, L, XL)$11.70
- Thermal Top (2X, 3X)$14.30
- Thermal Bottom (S, M, L, XL)$11.70
- Thermal Bottom (2X, 3X)$14.30
- Sweatshirt (S, M, L, XL, 2X, 3X)$18.85
- Sweatpants (S, M, L, XL, 2X, 3X)$22.10
Underwear (limit 1)
- Underwear, sizes 5 to 10$8.20
- Underwear, sizes 11 to 14$9.10
Sports bras (limit 1)
- Sports bras (S, M, L, XL)$14.45
- Just My Size sports bras (2X, 3X, 4X, 5X)$31.30
Socks (limit 5 total)
- Grey Ankle Socks$1.70
- Women's Crew$2.15
- Men's Crew$2.15
- 6 pk ankle max 1$9.85
Misc Clothes (limit 1 Each)
- White Robe$45.50
- White Bath Towel$15.60
- White washcloth$2.60
- Grey Stocking Cap$9.10
- Sunglasses$6.50
- Grey Baseball Cap$9.75
Shoe Accessories (limit 1 Each)
- Nike shower shoes (sizes 6 to 12)$39.00
- Black shower shoe (S, M, L, XL, 2X)$9.10
- White Shoelaces$1.95
- Black Shoelaces$1.95
- Black Shoe Polish$3.90
- Brown Shoe Polish$3.90
- Air Pillow Insoles$6.90
- Odor Destroyers$8.85
Shoes and boots (limit 1)
- Women's tennis shoe$65.00
- Men's Tennis Shoe$84.50
- Women's Boot$99.45
- Men's Boot$91.00
- Hey Dudes$65.00
Greeting Cards (limit 5 Each)
- Adult Male Birthday$0.70
- Adult Female Birthday$0.70
- Kids Boy Birthday$0.70
- Kids Girl Birthday$0.70
- Thinking of You$0.65
- Spanish Birthday$0.60
Miscellaneous items (limit in parentheses on the list)
- Planner max 1$1.95
- Picture Frame max 1$4.65
- Mechanical Pencil$5.05
- Pens-2 pack max 1$1.20
- Pink Pencil Eraser max 1$0.50
- Address Book max 1$2.05
- Legal White Envelope max 10$0.30
- 50 ct. Envelopes$2.00
- Pocket Folder max 10$0.65
- Document File max 1$2.00
- Notebook Paper max 2$2.15
- Composition Book max 2$2.45
- Legal Pad of Paper$1.25
- Typing Paper max 2$1.50
- Padlock max 1$9.40
- Locker Organizer max 1$13.00
- Photo Album max 1$3.70
- Hanger max 4$0.50
- Playing Cards max 2$3.05
- Pinochle Cards max 2$3.05
- Shower Bag-Grey max 1$6.50
- Gym Bag –Grey max 1$10.40
- Koss R-10 max 1$36.40
- JVC earbuds max 1$10.35
- AA batteries max 3$2.70
- AAA Batteries max 3$2.70
- Readers Light max 1$13.00
- Alarm Clock max 1$9.95
- Calculator max 1$7.75
- Typewriter Ribbon$10.35
- Correction Ribbon$0.90
- Swintec Ribbon$5.50
- Clear Coffee Mug max 1$2.40
- Bowl 24oz max 1$2.75
- Water Bottle max 1$3.90
- 4-piece Utensil max 1$1.55
- Dish Brush max 1$1.30
- Ball Earrings max 1$21.55
- Reading glasses, strength 1.0 max 1$3.25
- Reading glasses, strengths 1.25 to 3.0 max 1$3.00
- Fan max 1$23.40
Lotion (limit 2)
- Lubriderm$4.70
- Petroleum Jelly$1.00
- St. Ives Lotion$7.80
- Creamy Cocoa Butter$1.30
- Nivea Lotion$10.05
Dental (limit 2 total toothpaste)
- Colgate Anticavity$3.50
- Colgate w/soda/pero$4.45
- Colgate Sensitive$6.75
- Mouthwash max 1$4.95
- Dental Flossers max 1$1.30
- Toothbrush Cap max 1$0.15
- Toothbrush max 1$1.20
- Denture Bath max 1$1.80
- Mouth Guard max 1$4.30
- Denture Adhesive max 1$4.90
- Denture Cleaner max 1$5.00
Soap (limit 3 bar soap) (2 body wash)
- Axe Men Bodywash$7.75
- Olay Body wash$12.10
- St. Ives Body Wash$5.85
- Dove Sensitive$2.80
- AMBI Black Bar Soap$2.75
- Dial Anti-Bacterial$1.60
- Irish Spring 3pk$4.60
- Shea Butter 3pk Soap$2.40
- Soap Dish max 1$0.80
- Shower Puff max 1$1.45
Shampoo and conditioner (limit 2 total)
- Dove Shampoo$7.30
- Dove Conditioner$7.30
- VO5 Shampoo$2.35
- VO5 Conditioner$2.35
- Suave Karatin Shampoo$5.20
- Suave Karatin Conditioner$4.30
- Deep Moisture Shampoo$1.50
- Deep Conditioner$1.50
- Garnier Whole Blends Shampoo$7.45
- Garnier Whole Blends Conditioner$7.45
Face Care (limit 1 Each)
- Olay Moisturizer$12.15
- St. Ives Blemish$5.85
- Ambi Fade Cream$8.60
- St. Ives Collagen Tub$7.15
- Olay Cleanser$11.70
- Banana Boat$11.00
- Bug Repellant$7.80
Deodorant (limit 2)
- Lady Speed Stick$2.70
- Degree$4.10
- Secret Solid$3.80
- Degree Mens$3.25
Hair Care (limit 1 Each)
- Ampro Styling Gel$4.25
- Frizz Killer$10.85
- No Haircut Cream$10.15
- Cantu Curl Cream$12.45
- Hair Spray$10.45
- Aussie Spray Gel$7.65
- Cholesterol Cond$3.65
- Coconut Oil Cond.$1.85
- Hot Six Oil$8.10
- Pink Oil$6.95
- Edge Tamer$9.30
- Leave In Conditioner$1.50
Makeup (limit 1 Each)
- Mascara- Rimmel$4.95
- Mascara- Maybeline$10.25
- Eyeshadow$6.20
- Blush Pallet$13.00
- Pearlescent Pink Blush$4.75
- Pencil Eyeliner Brown$2.05
- Pencil Eyeliner Black$2.05
- Foundation Fair$7.90
- Foundation Medium$7.90
- Foundation Deep$7.90
- Maybelline Powder, Classic Ivory$12.60
- Maybelline Powder, Natural Buff$12.60
Lip Care (limit 1 Each)
- Chapstick$2.35
- Blistex$1.85
- Carmex$1.85
- Clear Lip Gloss$3.25
- Cherish Lip Gloss$3.25
- Rose Gold Lip Gloss$3.25
Accessories (limit 1 Each)
- Cosmetic Bag max 1$7.15
- Acrylic Mirror max 1$3.20
- Makeup Brush Kit max 1$25.80
- Makeup Wedges max 1$1.65
- Pencil Sharpener max 1$1.25
- Emery Boards max 1$0.75
- Pumice Stone max 1$2.10
- Slant Tweezers max 1$1.95
- Toenail Clipper max 1$0.65
- Foam Hair Rollers max 1$9.75
- Bic Soleil 3pk Razor Wm$5.74
- Conair Comb max 1$3.25
- Conair Hairbrush max 1$6.50
- Bristle Brush max 1$2.15
- Hair Pick max 1$0.85
- Shower Cap max 1$1.95
- Wave Cap max 1$3.60
- Rubber Bands max 1$1.00
- Ponytail Holders max 1$2.85
- Black Scrunchies max 1$4.75
- Head Bands max 1$8.90
- Small Clips max 1$2.55
- Medium Clips max 1$2.75
- Large Clips max 1$4.55
- Foot File max 1$7.60
- Magnum Razor max 1$7.35
- Magnum Cartridge max 1$7.35
- Razors 10 pack max 1$1.95
- Cotton Swabs 100 max 1$1.20
- Cotton Balls 100ct max 1$2.15
- Gain max 1$1.75
- Ear Plugs max 2$0.40
- Kleenex 3 Pack max 1$1.45
- Band-Aids max 1$2.00
- Powder max 1$1.85
- Coralite Wipes max 1$1.50
Feminine Products
- Ultra Thin Pads$5.00
- Panty Liner$2.00
- Tampax Original$5.40
- Tampax Super$5.40
Over-the-counter medicine, vitamins and skin care (limit 1 each)
- Cough Drops$1.95
- Clotrimazole$1.75
- Hydrocortisone$1.75
- Antibiotic Ointment$2.50
- Miconazole$11.40
- Anti-Fungal Powder$4.00
- Muscle Rub$2.50
- Pink Bismuth$3.70
- Mucus Relief Tabs$4.95
- Milk of Mag$3.65
- AER Witch Hazel Pads$4.65
- Calcium Citrate Petite$8.05
- Vitamin D$2.95
- Multi Vitamin$4.95
- Vitamin C$3.50
- Natural Lax (MiraLAX)$9.75
- Hemorrhoid Cream$3.75
- Stool Softener$1.75
- Gas Relief$2.00
- Rolaids$2.85
- Omeprazole$7.95
- Acid Reducer (Famotidine)$4.95
- 4 Hour Allergy Tabs$1.50
- Allergy Relief (Zyrtec)$3.00
- Menstrual Relief$2.80
- Naproxen$4.05
- Ibuprofen 200MG$2.00
- Aspirin 325 MG$2.00
- Acetaminophen$2.20
- Nasacort$20.00
- Nasal Spray$1.85
- Artificial Tears$2.60
- T-Gel Shampoo$4.25
- Anti-Dandruff$5.40
- Minerin Cream (Eucerin)$7.75
Noodles (limit 5 total, ramen and Thai noodles)
- Beef Ramen$0.45
- Hot/Spicy Ramen L/S$0.45
- Chicken Ramen L/S$0.45
- Thai Noodles$1.20
Miscellaneous food (limit 3 total)
- Peas Vegetable Cup 2pk$2.60
- Sun Dried Tomato$3.00
- Flour Tortillas max 2$2.90
- Corn Tortillas max 2$1.95
- Chorizo with Beans$2.20
- Refried Beans$2.60
- Chili with Beans$2.10
- Jalapeno Refried Beans$1.70
- Potatoes$2.35
- Nacho Cheese Rice$1.95
- Brown Rice max 2$1.20
- White Rice max 2$1.55
Meat (limit 14 Total- 5 each)
- Mackerel Fillet$1.20
- Tuna$1.30
- Salmon Flakes$1.95
- Crab$1.85
- Spam$1.75
- White Chicken$4.10
- Viena Sausage$2.35
- Shredded Beef$3.60
- Beef Sausage$2.70
- Hot Beef Sausage$2.70
- Turkey & Swiss Stick$1.60
- Pepperoni Slices$2.55
- Buffalo Chicken Bites$2.55
- Soy Taco Mix$2.60
- Beef/Jalapeno Stick$1.80
Seasonings and condiments (limit in parentheses on the list)
- Jalapeno Wheels max 1$2.75
- Giardiniera Pepper max 1$4.75
- Salsa Guacamole max 1$1.90
- Garlic Chili max 1$2.75
- Louisiana Hot Sauce max 1$1.45
- Mayo max 1$5.20
- Sazon Coriander max 1$2.05
- Chicken Bouillon max 1$1.70
- Melinda Green Sauce max 1$4.95
- Ranch max 5$0.55
- Salsa max 1$1.25
- Marinara max 5$1.20
- Asian Sweet/Hot max 1$3.00
- Salt and Pepper max 1$1.90
- Olive Oil max 1$3.20
- Vegetable Flakes max 1$2.00
- Mrs. Dash max 1$4.35
- Garlic Powder max 1$2.10
- Minced Onion max 1$1.35
- Queso Cotija$2.40
Drinks and miscellaneous (limit 5 total)
- Cappuccino$2.05
- Dry Milk$5.30
- Swiss Miss Milk Chocolate Bag$2.20
- Gatorade Bag$2.35
- Country Time Lemonade$2.65
- Skittles Variety$7.45
- Cherry Starburst$1.55
- Sonic Cherry Limeade$1.55
- Summer Colada$1.85
- Ice Tea w/ Lemon$2.35
- Mango Melon$1.85
- Keefe Tea Bags$4.10
- Assorted Tea$4.05
- Keefe Decaf$4.20
- Tasters Choice$12.35
- Columbian$4.75
- Folgers$4.15
- French Vanilla Creamer$5.45
- Creamer$2.85
- Sugar Bag max 1$1.95
- Equal$2.25
- Honey$4.15
- Nutella$5.00
- Marshmallow Fluff$2.55
- Chunky Peanut Butter$2.70
- Creamy Peanut Butter$2.70
Candy (limit 5 Total)
- Twix$1.40
- M&M's original$1.70
- Reese's Peanut Butter Cups$1.40
- Butterfinger$1.70
- Snickers$1.70
- Milky Way$1.70
- Hershey's Milk Chocolate Bar$1.35
- Skittles$1.70
- Sour worms max 3$1.85
- Tamarindo Chamoy$5.35
- S/F Werther's$1.45
- Gushers$2.35
- Hot Tamales max 3$1.55
Breakfast (limit 2 total, 1 each)
- Marshmallow Mateys$5.85
- S'mores$4.95
- Dyno Bites$4.70
- Spooners$4.35
- Poptarts$3.90
- Oatmeal$3.25
- Raisins$3.25
- Prunes/Plums$3.95
- Dates$3.80
- Blueberry Granola$5.20
- Rolled Oats$3.00
Snacks (limit 5 total)
- Snyder Pretzel Pieces max 3$0.75
- Gardettos max 3$1.25
- Raw Almonds max 3$4.45
- Sunflower Seeds max 3$1.45
- Salted Peanuts max 3$3.30
- Wheat Crackers max 1$2.30
- Club Crackers max 1$2.80
- Vanilla Pudding max 3$2.40
- Sweet & Salty Almond Granola Bar max 5$0.95
- Rice Krispies max 3$0.80
- Oats/Honey Bar max 5$0.60
- Cliff Bar max 5$2.15
- Strawberry Fig bar max 3$1.45
- Rainforest Trail Mix max 1$4.40
- Vanilla Wafers max 3$1.85
- Powder Donuts max 3$1.20
- Assorted Cookies max 3$1.95
- Famous Amos Cookie Bag max 3$0.65
- Grandmas Cookies max 3$1.05
Cheese (limit 5 Total)
- Gouda Dip$2.10
- Jalapeno cheese Spread$2.10
- Kraft Squeeze Cheese$3.65
- Mozzarella Block$2.10
- Jalapeno Jack Block$2.10
- Provolone Block$1.60
- Pickle$1.05
- Hot Pickle$1.05
Chips (limit 1 each, 2 total)
- Plain Ripples$1.80
- Spicy Chicharrónes$1.50
- Doritos$2.85
- Cheddar/Sour Cream$2.40
- BBQ Chips$1.80
- Cheetos$3.00
- Chili Cheese Fritos$3.15
- Tortilla Chips$2.25
Holiday Items (limit 1 Each)
- Nail Polish, Boyfriend (Mauve), each$5.00
- Nail Polish Remover$1.00
- Cucumber Peel Mask$4.00
- Mexican Candy max 1$2.05
- Beef Jerky$2.93
- Mentos max 1$1.40
Phone calls and email
- Getting set up
- They get a phone access code (PAC) and record a voice sample. Waseca is a "debit/collect calling" prison. They move money from their account to their phone account in whole dollars, up to twice in 24 hours. Click here to read the source: FCI Waseca Admission and Orientation Handbook (no date printed; the file was made in March 2023) ↗
- Contacts
- Up to 30 phone numbers, 30 email addresses and 100 contacts in total. They must enter your full legal name and a valid mailing address. Click here to read the source: FCI Waseca Admission and Orientation Handbook (no date printed; the file was made in March 2023) ↗
- Minutes and hours
- The handbook does not give the number of minutes a month, the length of a call, or the phone hours. Their minutes start over on a day set by the fifth digit of their register number: the 1st, 4th, 7th, 10th, 13th, 16th, 19th, 22nd, 25th or 28th. Click here to read the source: FCI Waseca Admission and Orientation Handbook (no date printed; the file was made in March 2023) ↗
- Public messaging through TRULINCS costs 1 unit per minute. Each contact gets an invitation to register at corrlinks.com and must register within 10 days. Some people are not allowed public messaging because of their offense or past behavior. Click here to read the source: FCI Waseca Admission and Orientation Handbook (no date printed; the file was made in March 2023) ↗
- Rules
- No three-way calls or call forwarding. Calls are monitored and recorded, except calls to attorneys that the Unit Team arranged ahead of time. Click here to read the source: FCI Waseca Admission and Orientation Handbook (no date printed; the file was made in March 2023) ↗
They have to add your number and email to their list first. Emails come through CorrLinks: you get an invitation by email once they add you.
Health care at Waseca
Medical care level 2 and mental health care level 2 (of 4). Stable outpatients who need to see a clinician anywhere from monthly to every 6 months. Examples the BOP gives: diabetes controlled with medication, epilepsy, emphysema. Click here to read the source: BOP "Institution Care Levels for Medical Assignment," February 13, 2024 (released under FOIA 2024-03455) ↗
- Sick call
- Sign-up is 6:30 to 7:00 a.m., Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. They must show their commissary ID card. A nurse or paramedic triages them. They are most likely put on call-out for a later appointment and not treated that day. Click here to read the source: FCI Waseca Admission and Orientation Handbook (no date printed; the file was made in March 2023) ↗
- Dental
- Dental emergencies (swelling, pain that stops eating or sleeping, injuries): sign up at the pill line window during medical sick call, same four days. Routine care (cleanings, fillings, dentures): they send an electronic "cop-out" to "Inmate to Dental" and wait on the national list. Two missed appointments in six months removes them from the list. Click here to read the source: FCI Waseca Admission and Orientation Handbook (no date printed; the file was made in March 2023) ↗
- Pill line
- They are assigned a morning or an evening pill line. They need their ID card. Medicine is crushed and they swallow it in front of staff. Over-the-counter medicine is not given at pill line. Click here to read the source: FCI Waseca Admission and Orientation Handbook (no date printed; the file was made in March 2023) ↗
- Emergency
- They tell the nearest staff member right away. Emergency care is given in Health Services, or they go to a community emergency room. Click here to read the source: FCI Waseca Admission and Orientation Handbook (no date printed; the file was made in March 2023) ↗
- Co-pay
- $2.00 for a visit they ask for. No fee for staff referrals, follow-up for a chronic condition, injuries (unless self-inflicted), emergencies, infectious disease, chronic care clinics, or check-ups. No fee if they are indigent (less than $6.00 in the account for the past 30 days). Click here to read the source: FCI Waseca Admission and Orientation Handbook (no date printed; the file was made in March 2023) ↗
- Over-the-counter medicine
- Sold at the commissary. Indigent inmates can ask for it at sick call. Click here to read the source: FCI Waseca Admission and Orientation Handbook (no date printed; the file was made in March 2023) ↗
Programs
- RDAP (drug program; can mean up to a year off for those eligible)
- Waseca has RDAP. The handbook says E Unit houses it, and RDAP follow-up groups are at least one hour a month for up to 12 months after finishing. To join any drug program, they send an electronic cop-out to Psychology or the Drug Abuse Program Coordinator. Click here to read the source: FCI Waseca Admission and Orientation Handbook (no date printed; the file was made in March 2023) ↗
- RDAP on the BOP list
- The BOP's First Step Act guide lists "FCI Waseca (MN)" among the RDAP locations. Click here to read the source: First Step Act Approved Programs Guide (May 2026) ↗
- Other drug help
- Drug Education, the non-residential drug program (NRDAP) and Medication Assisted Therapy (MAT). Drug Education is required for some people based on their history; the rest is voluntary. Click here to read the source: FCI Waseca Admission and Orientation Handbook (no date printed; the file was made in March 2023) ↗
- Psychology groups
- Groups can include Anger Management, Criminal Thinking, Dialectical-Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive-Processing Therapy, the Trauma and Life Workshop and First Step Act groups. They can self-refer by cop-out or at open house. Psychology screens new arrivals within 14 days. Click here to read the source: FCI Waseca Admission and Orientation Handbook (no date printed; the file was made in March 2023) ↗
- Trauma and grief programs
- The First Step Act guide lists Waseca (WAS) as a site for the Resolve Program and for Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Late-Life Depression. Click here to read the source: First Step Act Approved Programs Guide (May 2026) ↗
- UNICOR (prison factory)
- Waseca's UNICOR is a textile sewing factory, with other jobs in maintenance, packaging, quality assurance, the business office and the warehouse. They apply through their counselor and join a waiting list (prior UNICOR experience, financial obligation over $1,000, veteran, warehouse, or general). Half of UNICOR pay goes to court-ordered obligations. They must take part in the Inmate Financial Responsibility Program. A final order of deportation bars them from the list. Click here to read the source: FCI Waseca Admission and Orientation Handbook (no date printed; the file was made in March 2023) ↗
- Federal Prison Industries on the BOP list
- The First Step Act guide lists WAS as a site for Federal Prison Industries and the FPI Lean training programs. Click here to read the source: First Step Act Approved Programs Guide (May 2026) ↗
- College classes
- The First Step Act guide lists Waseca (WAS) as a site for the Post-Secondary Education program. Click here to read the source: First Step Act Approved Programs Guide (May 2026) ↗
The BOP's First Step Act guide lists FCI Waseca on its RDAP list (updated June 4, 2026), and as a site for the Resolve Program, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Late-Life Depression, Post-Secondary Education and Federal Prison Industries. Click here to read the source: First Step Act Approved Programs Guide (May 2026) ↗
Safety record
Criminal cases at Waseca
- October 7, 2026A news report said a former Waseca prison officer was charged with sexually abusing 3 inmates the officer guarded. (KEYC News Now)
- October 8, 2026A news report said a former correctional officer was accused of sexually abusing inmates at the Minnesota women's prison, federal prosecutors said. (CBS News)
- May 19, 2025A newspaper reported a lawsuit saying a 36-year-old woman died after the Waseca prison delayed the woman's heart surgery. (Star Tribune)
Deaths announced by the BOP
- July 28, 2026A 35-year-old woman became unresponsive at about 10:30 a.m. and was pronounced dead by emergency medical staff. The FBI was notified. Click here to read the source: BOP press release, "Death at FCI Waseca," July 29, 2026 ↗
These are deaths the BOP announced in a press release. The BOP does not publish a full count of deaths at each prison, so this is not a total.
Sexual abuse audit (PREA)
The last federal sexual-abuse (PREA) audit visited Waseca November 28 to 30, 2023 (final report January 11, 2024). Result: 0 standards exceeded, 41 met, 0 not met. 4 standards were not audited at the facility level. This audit is nearly three years old. In the 12 months before the audit, Waseca recorded 11 sexual-abuse allegations (9 against staff, 2 against other inmates) and 1 sexual-harassment allegation (against another inmate). Click here to read the source: PREA audit report, FCI Waseca (onsite November 28 to 30, 2023) ↗
An allegation is a report, not a finding. The audit counts reports made, not what investigators concluded.
News about Waseca
- Former Waseca prison guard indicted on 3 sexual abuse chargesFOX 9 Minneapolis-St. Paul · Oct 8, 2026
- Ex-Waseca prison officer charged with sexually abusing 3 inmates he guardedKEYC News Now · Oct 7, 2026
- Family of woman who died in Waseca prison files lawsuitMankato Free Press · May 19, 2025
Stories from news outlets that name FCI Waseca, checked every day. Last updated Nov 3, 2026, 3:47 pm ET. We link to the original story; we did not write these.
Intel from the Inside
Intel last checked: November 3, 2026
Reports from people inside, in their own words. It is how the place really runs, not official policy, and it can change. We never publish names.
No Intel reported for Waseca yet.
Know something about Waseca that families should know? Tell Scooter. Our team checks every report before it goes up, and we never publish names.