Family Resources
Practical starting points for families navigating federal custody.
1. Find a person in federal custody
Use our homepage search for public BOP information by last name or BOP register number. Confirm important results with BOP.gov.
Search BOP records2. Understand a BOP search result
Learn what a public BOP locator result can and cannot establish, including important cautions about release dates and custody status.
Understand results3. Understand GCT and FSA Time Credits
See the difference between Good Conduct Time and First Step Act Time Credits, including earning versus application.
GCT vs. FSA guide4. Find an official BOP facility
Use the official BOP location directory for addresses, contact information, visiting information, and institution details.
Official BOP locations5. Estimate a basic sentence timeline
Our educational estimator adds the sentence months you enter to a start date. It does not determine an official release date or calculate credits.
Open date estimator6. Review Legal & FSA Updates
Read our educational legal/FSA update page, then confirm current rules and case status with primary official sources.
Legal & FSA updates7. Official BOP resources
For authoritative federal prison policies, programs, contact information, and public guidance, go directly to the Federal Bureau of Prisons.
Visit BOP.gov8. Understand the limits of this site
Review our legal disclaimer before relying on custody dates, credit information, eligibility discussions, or other educational material.
Read legal disclaimerFederal Custody Guide • Independent educational resource • English & Español