Answers about good time, parole and release dates
Plain answers to common questions, with official sources.
What is the difference between good time and earned time?
Good time is credit for following the rules. Earned time is credit for doing something, such as school, work or treatment. Both can move up a date, but which date they move depends on the state.
Does good time shorten a sentence or just make someone parole eligible sooner?
It depends on the state. In some states, credits move the actual release or discharge date. In others, like Texas, credits only move up parole eligibility and mandatory supervision. The sentence end date stays the same.
How do I find out when an inmate will be released?
Use the official inmate search for the state where the person is held. Most show a projected release date or parole eligibility date. Only the prison system can calculate or correct the date.
Can good time be taken away?
Yes, in most systems. Good time can be lost (forfeited) for rule violations or new crimes. Some states let lost time be restored; others do not.
How does federal good time work (the 54-day rule)?
People in federal prison serving more than one year can get up to 54 days of credit for each year of the sentence the judge imposed, if they follow the rules. Life sentences do not get it.
Does time spent in jail before sentencing count?
Usually yes, but the rules differ. Federal law gives credit for time in official detention before the sentence starts, if it was not counted toward another sentence. In state cases, the judge or court order usually sets jail credit.
What is the difference between a parole eligibility date and a release date?
A parole eligibility date is the earliest date the parole board can consider someone. It is not a promise of release. A release or discharge date is when the person must be let out or the sentence ends.
What do I do if a release date looks wrong?
Start with the facility records office. Ask for a time computation or sentence calculation. If the problem is jail credit or the judgment, the court must fix it. A lawyer or legal aid group can help.
Which states give earned time for programs, school or work?
Most states give some kind of credit for programs, school or work, but the amounts and who qualifies vary a lot. The table below lists each state's rule from official sources.
Who cannot earn good time? (Exclusions by state)
Many states limit or bar credits for certain offenses, such as murder, sex offenses or crimes with a weapon, and for life sentences. The table lists the first exclusion in each state's official sources.
What does "85%" or "truth in sentencing" mean?
It means a person must serve at least 85% of the sentence (sometimes 100%) before credits can lead to release. Which offenses are covered depends on the state.
Can people serving life sentences earn good time?
Often not, or only toward parole eligibility. Federal good time does not apply to life sentences. State rules vary.
Can someone on parole move to another state?
Yes, through the Interstate Compact, if the rules are met and the other state accepts. Our guide explains eligibility, the 45-day investigation, fees and offices.
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