Getting in touch with someone in jail involves several steps, depending on the type of communication you wish to use (phone calls, mail, visitation, or electronic messaging).

Here are detailed methods for each…

Methods to Get in Touch with Someone in Jail

• Phone Calls
• Mail
• Visitation
• Electronic Messaging

Phone Calls

Steps to Receive Calls from an Inmate…

• Set Up an Account with a Phone Service Provider
  • Find the Provider – Determine which phone service provider the jail or prison uses (e.g., GTL, Securus, ICSolutions).
  • Create an Account – Visit the provider’s website and create an account.
  • Add Funds – Deposit money into the account to pay for calls.
• Inmate Calls You
  • Wait for the Inmate’s Call – The inmate will call you using the phone service.
  • Accept the Call –Follow the prompts to accept the call. Charges will apply based on the provider’s rates.

Mail

Steps to Send Mail to an Inmate

• Obtain the Inmate’s Mailing Address
  • Check the Facility’s Website – Look for the mailing address format for inmate correspondence.
  • Contact the Facility – Call the jail or prison to verify the mailing address and any specific guidelines.
• Prepare the Mail
  • Include Inmate Details –Clearly write the inmate’s full name, ID number, and housing unit on the envelope.
  • Follow Guidelines – Ensure the content adheres to the facility’s guidelines (e.g., no prohibited items).
• Send the Mail
  • Post the Letter – Mail the letter using standard postal services.

Visitation

Steps to Visit an Inmate

• Check Visitation Policies
  • Facility’s Website – Review the visitation policies on the facility’s website.
  • Contact the Facility – Call to confirm visiting hours and requirements.
• Schedule a Visit
  • Appointment – Some facilities require scheduling an appointment. Check if this is necessary.
• Prepare for the Visit
  • Identification – Bring a valid photo ID.
  • Dress Code – Adhere to the facility’s dress code.
  • Prohibited Items – Avoid bringing prohibited items.
• Visit the Facility
  • Arrive Early – Arrive before the scheduled time to allow for security checks.
  • Follow Rules – Comply with all facility rules and regulations during the visit.

Electronic Messaging

Steps to Send Electronic Messages

• Set Up an Account with a Messaging Service
  • Find the Provider – Determine which electronic messaging service the facility uses (e.g., JPay, CorrLinks).
  • Create an Account – Visit the provider’s website and create an account.
  • Add Funds – Deposit money into the account if required for sending messages.
• Send a Message
  • Compose the Message – Log in to your account and compose your message.
  • Send the Message – Send the message to the inmate. Charges may apply based on the provider’s rates.

Important Considerations

• Facility Rules and Regulations – Always check the specific rules and regulations of the facility regarding communication with inmates. These rules can vary widely between different jails and prisons.
• Prohibited Items and Content – Ensure that any mail or messages comply with the facility’s guidelines to avoid rejection or disciplinary action against the inmate.
• Account Setup – Setting up accounts with phone and messaging service providers usually requires payment, so be prepared for these expenses.
• Security Checks – Both mail and visitation involve security checks to prevent contraband and ensure the safety of the facility.

To get in touch with someone in jail, you can receive phone calls by setting up an account with the facility’s phone service provider, send mail following the facility’s guidelines, schedule and prepare for visits by checking visitation policies, or send electronic messages through approved services. Always verify the specific rules and procedures of the facility to ensure successful communication.