To add an inmate contact in Corrlinks, you need the inmate’s full name, their DOC or facility ID number, and the facility where they are housed. Log into your Corrlinks account, go to the “Contacts” section, click “Add Contact,” enter the inmate’s details, and submit. The request will be sent to the facility for approval—this can take anywhere from a few hours to several days. Here’s what you need to know before you start, and what to do if the process feels stuck.
Why can’t I add a contact? Common problems
Many families hit a wall when trying to add a contact. The most frequent issue is that the inmate’s information doesn’t match what the facility has on file. Even a small typo in the name or a missing digit in the ID number can cause a rejection. Another common problem is that the facility isn’t yet set up for Corrlinks, or the inmate’s account hasn’t been activated. If you get an error, double-check all details with the inmate directly—they can look up their own ID number on their account or ask a counselor.
How long does it take for a contact to be approved?
Approval times vary widely. Some facilities process requests within a few hours, while others take several days. You won’t get a notification until the facility approves or denies the request. If it’s been more than a week, call the facility’s mailroom or inmate accounts department—but be prepared to wait on hold. There’s no way to speed this up from your end.
What if I don’t want to wait? Simpler alternatives
If the Corrlinks process feels slow or confusing, you’re not alone. Many families switch to a service like InmateDB, which still runs through TRULINCS but keeps it simple: the inmate adds one InmateDB contact, then texts your phone number directly. You reply from your normal texting app, with no Corrlinks contact requests to manage on your side. Plans start at $9.99 per month with a 3-day free trial, so you can test it before committing.
Can I add multiple inmates to one Corrlinks account?
Yes, you can add multiple contacts, but each one requires a separate request and approval. If you have more than one loved one inside, you’ll need to go through the same process for each. Keep a spreadsheet of names and IDs—it’ll save you from logging in and out repeatedly.
What happens after the contact is approved?
Once approved, you can send messages, photos, and even money (if the facility allows it). Each facility sets its own limits on message length, number of photos, and frequency. You’ll see these rules in your account settings after approval. The inmate will receive your messages on their tablet or terminal, and they can reply using a similar interface. Expect a delay of a few minutes to a few hours on replies, depending on the facility’s schedule.
How does InmateDB compare for sending messages and photos?
InmateDB lets you send photos and letters online, printed and mailed, and inmates can text U.S. and Canada phone numbers. Depending on the plan, they also get extras like AI chat, email, Wikipedia, dictionary, news, sports, lessons, trivia, and a private journal. Unlike adding each person in Corrlinks, the inmate adds one InmateDB contact and can then text family directly. If you’re tired of managing Corrlinks contacts, InmateDB might be a better fit.
My honest recommendation
If you already have a Corrlinks account and the facility supports it, adding a contact is straightforward—just be patient with approvals. But if you’re starting from scratch or dealing with delays, consider using InmateDB instead. It’s simpler, faster, and gives inmates more ways to stay connected. The free trial lets you try it risk-free, and you can cancel anytime. Either way, the goal is the same: staying in touch without the headache.