Understanding and Using the Indiana Credit Time Calculator

Navigating the complexities of Indiana’s sentencing and credit time system can be challenging. This calculator aims to provide a clearer picture of how “good time” credit might affect an individual’s actual time served. It’s a tool for estimation, not a guarantee, but can be helpful for inmates, families, and legal representatives.

What is Credit Time in Indiana?

In Indiana, most incarcerated individuals have the opportunity to earn “credit time” (often called “good time credit”). This means that for good behavior and participation in certain programs, their sentence can be reduced. The amount of credit earned depends on the “Credit Time Class” assigned to the individual, which is typically determined by the nature of their offense and their behavior while incarcerated.

The primary Indiana Code governing credit time is IC 35-50-6. This statute outlines the different classes and how credit is accrued.

How Indiana Credit Time Works: The Classes

The calculator uses the most common credit time classifications:

• Class A: An individual earns one (1) day of credit time for each day they serve. This effectively means they serve 50% of their sentence. (e.g., a 10-year sentence could be served in 5 years).
• Class B: An individual earns one (1) day of credit time for every two (2) days they serve. This effectively means they serve approximately 66.7% of their sentence.
• Class C: An individual earns one (1) day of credit time for every three (3) days they serve. This effectively means they serve 75% of their sentence.
• Class D: An individual earns one (1) day of credit time for every six (6) days they serve. This effectively means they serve approximately 85.7% of their sentence.

Note on Class P (Educational Credit): Indiana law also allows for educational credit (often referred to as Class P). This can provide sentence reductions for achieving educational milestones like a GED, vocational certificate, or college degree. The amount of credit varies and is often applied as a flat reduction. This calculator does not currently compute Class P credit due to its variability, but it’s an important factor to be aware of. Check with IDOC for specifics on educational credit eligibility.

Losing Credit Time (Deprivation)

It’s important to understand that credit time can also be lost or “deprived.” If an individual violates institutional rules, they may have some of their earned or future credit time taken away. This calculator allows you to input any days of credit time that have been deprived.

How to Use the Calculator

Using the calculator is straightforward. Follow these steps:

1. Original Sentence Length: Enter the total sentence imposed by the court in years, months, and days. For example, if the sentence is 5 years and 6 months, enter ‘5’ in Years and ‘6’ in Months.
2. Credit Time Class: Select the appropriate credit class (A, B, C, or D) from the dropdown menu. This is crucial for an accurate estimate.
3. Sentence Start Date (Optional): If you know the date the sentence began, enter it here. This will allow the calculator to estimate a potential release date.
4. Credit Time Deprived (if any): If any credit time has been officially taken away due to disciplinary actions, enter the total number of days deprived. If none, leave it as ‘0’ or blank.
5. Calculate: Click the “Calculate Credit Time” button.

Interpreting Your Results

The calculator will provide the following estimates:

• Total Original Sentence (in days): Your input sentence converted into total days.
• Potential Credit Time Earnable: The maximum credit days that could be earned based on the sentence length and credit class, before any deprivations.
• Net Credit Time Earned: The potential credit time minus any days deprived.
• Actual Time to Serve: The original sentence length minus the net credit time earned. This is shown in years, months, and days.
• Estimated Release Date: If you provided a start date, this will be the estimated date of release based on the calculated actual time to serve.

Important Disclaimers

• Estimation Only: This calculator provides an estimate for informational purposes. It is NOT an official calculation from the Indiana Department of Correction.
• IDOC Calculations Prevail: The IDOC maintains the official records and performs the definitive credit time calculations. Always rely on official IDOC statements for precise release dates.
• Factors Not Included: This calculator does not account for all possible variables, such as:
  • Specific rules for Class P educational credits.
  • Jail time credit (time served before sentencing).
  • Changes in law or IDOC policy.
  • Complex sentence structures (e.g., consecutive vs. concurrent sentences).
• Not Legal Advice: This information is not legal advice. If you have legal questions about a sentence or credit time, consult with a qualified attorney.

Conclusion

While not a substitute for official IDOC information, the Indiana Credit Time Calculator can be a valuable resource for understanding how good time credit may influence time served. It offers a starting point for discussions and planning for individuals and their families affected by incarceration in Indiana.