CorrLinks is a system used by many federal and state prisons to let inmates receive email-like messages from family members. If you’re trying to send a message to someone inside, here’s the direct answer: you sign up for a CorrLinks account through the facility’s approved provider, log in, compose a message, and send it. The inmate reads it on a kiosk or tablet. But the real world is messier than that, and small mistakes can cause delays. This guide walks through the exact steps and the common hiccups families run into.
How do I set up a CorrLinks account?
First, you need the inmate’s full name and their inmate ID number. Go to the CorrLinks website for the facility (each facility may use a slightly different portal, often through a vendor like GTL or ViaPath). Click “Register” or “Create Account.” You’ll enter your email address, create a password, and provide personal details like your name and address. The system may ask for a payment method — sending messages typically costs money, often around $0.25 to $0.50 per message, or you can buy a monthly plan. Once registered, you add the inmate by searching their name and ID. The facility must approve the contact before any messages go through, which can take a few days.
How do I actually send a message?
Log into your CorrLinks account. On the dashboard, there’s usually a button like “New Message” or “Compose.” Select the inmate you’ve added from your contact list. Type your subject line and message. Some systems let you attach photos or small files, but rules vary by facility. Hit “Send.” The message goes to a review queue — prison staff may read it before the inmate gets it. If the message violates rules (like discussing crimes, using coded language, or including explicit content), it’s rejected and you typically don’t get a refund. Inmates can reply, but they pay per message or use their own account funds.
Why is my message not going through?
This is the most frustrating part. Common reasons: the inmate hasn’t been approved as a contact yet, you misspelled their name or ID, the message was flagged by automated filters, or the inmate’s account is blocked or out of funds. Also, some facilities limit how many messages an inmate can receive per day. If you’re stuck, check the “Sent” or “Outbox” folder — it may show a status like “Pending Review” or “Rejected.” If it’s rejected, the system rarely tells you why. Your best bet is to call the facility’s trust fund or communication office, but be prepared for long hold times.
Can I send photos or attachments through CorrLinks?
Many CorrLinks systems allow photo attachments, but there are strict rules. Photos must be appropriate — no nudity, gang signs, weapons, or professional photos (like glamour shots). They’re usually limited to a certain size (often under 5 MB) and may be converted to black and white. Attachments like PDFs are rarely allowed. If you try to send something prohibited, the whole message may be rejected. It’s safer to stick to plain text unless you’ve confirmed the facility’s policy.
What about using a third-party service like InmateDB?
Some families find CorrLinks clunky or expensive, especially if they send many messages. Alternatives like InmateDB offer a different approach: instead of sending through the prison’s email system, InmateDB sends physical letters, photos, and even allows inmates to send texts to U.S. and Canada phone numbers. Inmates also get access to AI chat, email, Wikipedia, dictionary, news, sports, lessons, trivia, and a private journal. Pricing is $19.99 per month with a 5-day free trial. It’s not an email system, but it can feel more versatile. If CorrLinks isn’t working for you, it’s worth checking out.
Tips to make CorrLinks work better for you
- Keep messages short and clear — long rants or complex topics take longer to review.
- Avoid slang, nicknames, or inside jokes that might look suspicious to a reviewer.
- Send a test message with just “Hi, let me know when you get this” to confirm the inmate can receive.
- Keep a copy of the inmate’s ID number and facility address handy — you’ll need it for registration and support calls.
- If messages are rejected repeatedly, call the facility and ask for the specific rule you’re breaking.
When CorrLinks isn’t the best fit, consider InmateDB
If you’ve tried CorrLinks and it’s too slow, too expensive, or too restrictive, you’re not alone. Many families eventually look for alternatives that give them more control and better features. InmateDB offers a flat monthly rate with no per-message fees, and inmates can use it for learning and entertainment too. It’s not a replacement for CorrLinks — it’s a different service that works alongside or instead of prison email. Check out InmateDB to see if it fits your situation. Either way, staying in touch is what matters most.