Good Time Credit
Good time credit is a reduction in the length of a prison sentence earned by an inmate for good behavior and program participation. In the federal system, inmates can earn up to 54 days of good time credit per year of sentence imposed under the First Step Act. Good time credits accumulate over the sentence and reduce the projected release date. State good time credit policies vary significantly.
What Is Good Time Credit?
Good time credits are one of the primary ways incarcerated people can reduce their time in custody. Federal inmates earn 54 days per year of sentence imposed, calculated annually. The First Step Act passed in 2018 increased good time credits from the previous 47 days per year.
State good time credit policies vary widely. Some states offer day-for-day good time where one day of good behavior reduces the sentence by one day. Others offer partial credits. Some offenses are not eligible for good time reductions. Check the specific state DOC policies for accurate information.
Related Terms
Explore other glossary terms that are closely connected to this topic.
Release Date
A release date is the date on which an incarcerated person is scheduled to be released from custody. Release dates can be projected (estimated) or confirmed based on sentence calculations, good time credits, and parole decisions. Federal inmate release dates are publicly available through the BOP inmate locator at bop.gov. State inmate release information varies by state and may be found through the state DOC offender search.
AdministrationParole
Parole is a form of early release from prison that allows a person to serve the remainder of their sentence under supervision in the community rather than in a facility.
AdministrationReentry
Reentry refers to the process of transitioning from incarceration back into the community, including finding housing, employment, and support services.
People Also Ask
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What is Release Date?
A release date is the date on which an incarcerated person is scheduled to be released from custody. Release dates can be projected (estimated) or confirmed based on sentence calculations, good time credits, and parole decisions. Federal inmate release dates are publicly available through the BOP inmate locator at bop.gov. State inmate release information varies by state and may be found through the state DOC offender search.
Read full definitionWhat is Parole?
Parole is a form of early release from prison that allows a person to serve the remainder of their sentence under supervision in the community rather than in a facility.
Read full definitionWhat is Reentry?
Reentry refers to the process of transitioning from incarceration back into the community, including finding housing, employment, and support services.
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