Wichita Bail Bonds Blog

In the federal prison system, most inmates serve about 85% of their sentence before becoming eligible for release. Unlike many state systems, there is no parole in the federal system, so early release is limited to good behavior and specific programs approved by law. The goal is to ensure that federal sentences are served consistently and that inmates earn reductions only through rehabilitation and compliance.

Truth In Sentencing Rule

• Federal inmates must serve at least 85% of their sentence before release.
• This rule was established under the Truth in Sentencing Act, which limits how much time can be reduced through good behavior credits.
• For example, a person sentenced to 10 years in federal prison will usually serve around 8 years and 6 months before release.

Good Conduct Time (GCT)

• Federal inmates can earn up to 54 days per year of good conduct time if they obey prison rules and maintain good behavior.
• These credits can be taken away if the inmate breaks rules or faces disciplinary action.
• Good conduct time is the main way to shorten a federal sentence.

Sentence Reductions Through Programs

• Residential Drug Abuse Program (RDAP) – Eligible inmates who complete this program can receive up to 12 months off their sentence.
• First Step Act Credits – Inmates can earn additional time credits for completing educational, vocational, or rehabilitation programs. These credits can help transfer them earlier to a halfway house or home confinement.
• Compassionate Release – In rare cases, inmates may be released early for severe medical issues, advanced age, or extraordinary family hardship.

No Parole In The Federal System

• Federal parole was abolished for crimes committed after November 1, 1987.
• Instead, inmates serve their sentence until they qualify for release based on time served and credits earned.
• After release, they enter a supervision period called supervised release rather than parole.

Supervised Release After Prison

• Most federal sentences include 1 to 5 years of supervised release after incarceration.
• The released individual must follow strict conditions, such as reporting to a probation officer, maintaining employment, and avoiding new criminal behavior.
• Violating supervised release can result in being sent back to prison for part or all of the supervision period.

Federal inmates serve about 85% of their sentence, with reductions available only for good behavior and certain rehabilitation programs. There is no parole in the federal system, but inmates may earn credits through education or treatment programs. After release, most individuals must complete a period of supervised release under federal probation oversight.