Tenn. Code Ann. § 41-21-512: Distribution of inmate earnings

After initial payment of board, the wages and salaries of employed inmates shall be disbursed for the following purposes in the order set forth:

(1) Necessary travel expense to and from work and associated incidental expenses;

(2) Support of dependents, if any, in amounts fixed by the division of rehabilitative services;

(3) Payment of any outstanding court costs assessed inmates;

(4) Payment in full or ratably of obligations acknowledged in writing by inmates; and

(5) The balance, if any, to inmates upon discharge from confinement.