What should be notified if the balance is not enough to cover purchases?

The most appropriate action when the balance is insufficient to cover purchases is to notify the inmate. This is essential because the inmate needs to be aware of their available funds in order to make informed decisions about their purchases. Providing this information helps maintain transparency and allows the inmate to understand the limits of their spending capability within the facility. Additionally, it can prevent misunderstandings or frustrations regarding transactions that cannot be processed due to a lack of funds.

The involvement of other roles, such as the facility administrator or commissary manager, may happen later in the process for additional oversight or to address systemic issues, but the immediate notification has to come directly to the inmate. This direct communication emphasizes the inmate's responsibility for their financial transactions.