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Reviewed on: April 05,2026
General Prison Questions-Terminology

Difference between USP FCI and FPC prisons

What is the difference between USP, FCI, and FPC? How do i find out my son's commissary account number.?

The difference between USP, FCI, and FPC comes down to security level and custody classification within the Federal Bureau of Prisons.
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Answered by a former federal inmate · 14+ years advising families
✓ Verified answer July 12,2013 · General Prison Questions-Terminology
1

The difference between USP, FCI, and FPC comes down to security level and custody classification within the Federal Bureau of Prisons.

  • USP (United States Penitentiary):
    This is the highest security level. These facilities house inmates with more serious charges or higher risk classifications. Movement is tightly controlled and security is strict.
  • FCI (Federal Correctional Institution):
    These are medium or low security prisons. They still have controlled movement, but conditions are less restrictive than a USP. Many inmates serve the bulk of their sentences here.
  • FPC (Federal Prison Camp):
    This is minimum security. Camps often have no fences or very limited perimeter security. Inmates may have work assignments and more freedom of movement compared to higher levels.

About the commissary account number:
There is no separate commissary account number. You will use your son’s inmate register number for everything, including sending money and identifying his account.

It is usually formatted like this:
12345-678

As long as you have his full name and register number, you can send funds and manage his account without needing any additional number.

Accepted Answer Date Created: July 12,2013
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About this answer: This response was prepared by InmateAid’s editorial team in consultation with former inmates who have direct experience with the federal correctional system. InmateAid has served families of the incarcerated since 2012. This is general information only — not legal advice. Last reviewed April 2026.