Families communicate with inmates primarily through phone calls, video visits, email-like messaging systems, and traditional mail. Most confusion comes from not knowing which methods a specific facility allows or how to set them up. Expect to navigate different rules and costs depending on where your loved one is held.
Phone Calls: The Most Common Option
Phone calls are available at nearly all correctional facilities. Inmates typically use collect calls or prepaid accounts that families fund in advance. Rates can be high, and calls are usually monitored and recorded. You’ll need to set up an account with the phone service provider the facility uses, which often involves creating an online profile or calling a customer service line. Calls may be limited in duration and frequency, so check the facility’s specific policies.
Video Visits: Seeing Each Other Remotely
Many facilities now offer video visits through scheduled online sessions. These require a computer or smartphone with a camera and internet access. Families usually book appointments through a third-party service provider, paying a fee per session. Video visits can feel more personal than phone calls but may have strict rules about behavior and attire. Not all facilities offer this, and availability can be limited, so it’s worth inquiring directly.
Electronic Messaging: Faster Than Mail
Electronic messaging systems let families send text-based messages through a secure online platform. Messages are delivered to tablets or kiosks within the facility, often within hours instead of days. This option usually costs less than phone calls but may involve per-message fees or monthly subscriptions. Some services allow attachments like photos. InmateDB, for example, enables families to send messages, photos, and letters online, and inmates can text U.S. and Canada phone numbers through their platform.
Traditional Mail: Slow but Reliable
Sending letters through the postal service remains an option at most facilities. Mail is inspected for contraband, which can cause delays. Include the inmate’s full name and ID number on the envelope, and follow facility guidelines about acceptable content. While slow, mail is often the cheapest way to communicate and allows for longer, more thoughtful exchanges. Some families combine mail with faster methods to maintain regular contact.
In-Person Visits: When Possible
In-person visits require traveling to the facility during designated hours. Rules vary widely: some allow contact visits, while others use glass partitions. You’ll typically need to be on an approved visitor list, bring ID, and follow dress codes. Visits can be emotionally meaningful but logistically challenging due to distance, costs, and scheduling constraints. Check the facility’s website or call ahead for current policies, as they may change.
Choosing What Works for Your Family
Start by contacting the facility to learn which communication methods they permit. Consider your budget, how often you want to connect, and what feels most comfortable. A mix of options often works best—for instance, weekly phone calls supplemented by occasional letters. If electronic messaging appeals to you, services like InmateDB offer features like sending messages, photos, and letters online, plus inmates get access to AI chat, email, Wikipedia, and other resources. Pricing is $19.99 per month with a 5-day free trial. For more details, visit InmateDB’s website.