Verified by Licensed Bail Bond Professionals•Last updated: March 2026
Definition: A credit toward early release earned by Florida inmates for good behavior, participation in programs, or meritorious service. Under current law (post-1995), Florida inmates must serve at least 85% of their sentence.
Category: Sentencing · Statute: F.S. 944.275 · Source: Florida Legislature
Types of Gain Time
- Basic gain time — Earned automatically for following prison rules
- Incentive gain time — Earned for completing educational or vocational programs
- Meritorious gain time — Earned for exceptional acts (assisting in emergencies, etc.)
The 85% Rule
Under the Truth in Sentencing Act (1995), all Florida inmates sentenced after October 1, 1995 must serve at least 85% of their sentence. This means a 10-year sentence requires at least 8.5 years served, regardless of gain time earned.