Inmate Messaging
Electronic messaging lets families stay connected with incarcerated loved ones through approved platforms. Find the right provider for your facility, compare options, and learn how the process works.
8+
Approved providers
7,000+
Facilities covered
50
States covered
How Inmate Messaging Works
Four steps from account setup to your first message.
Find the right provider
Different facilities use different messaging platforms. Confirm which provider is approved at your loved one's facility before creating an account. Using the wrong platform means your messages will not be delivered.
Create a free account
Registration is free on all major platforms. You will need the inmate's facility name and their ID number to add them as a contact. The inmate may also need to approve your request from their end.
Send your first message
Compose and send your message through the provider's app or website. Messages go through a review process before reaching the inmate. Most platforms also allow you to attach photos.
Wait for a response
Inmates respond using tablets or kiosks inside the facility. Typical delivery takes 24 to 48 hours on business days. Response times depend on facility schedules and staff review.
Messaging Providers
These platforms offer electronic messaging at correctional facilities across the United States.
Messaging, photos, and money transfer for state inmates
35 states, 1,000+ facilities
View guideOfficial federal Bureau of Prisons email system
All 120 federal BOP facilities
View guideVideo visitation and messaging for county jails
45 states, 2,200+ county jails
View guidePhone, video, and messaging for federal and county facilities
All 50 states, 1,800+ facilities
View guideSimple messaging and photo delivery
25 states, 600+ facilities
View guideAll-in-one messaging, photos, and video
20 states, 400+ facilities
View guideLetter writing and physical mail delivery
All 50 states, 3,000+ facilities
View guideMessaging for county jails and state prisons
45 states, 1,200+ facilities
View guideFeatured Facilities
A selection of facilities where electronic messaging is available through approved providers.
San Quentin State Prison
State Prison · CA
Attica Correctional Facility
State Prison · NY
Rikers Island
County Jail · NY
Cook County Jail
County Jail · IL
Federal Correctional Complex Coleman
Federal Prison · FL
Folsom State Prison
State Prison · CA
Sing Sing Correctional Facility
State Prison · NY
Harris County Jail
County Jail · TX
Pelican Bay State Prison
State Prison · CA
Miami-Dade Corrections Facility
County Jail · FL
Key Facts About Inmate Messaging
Not all facilities offer messaging
Some smaller county jails and older state facilities have not adopted electronic messaging. Physical mail may be the only option in those cases.
Each facility uses one provider
Facilities sign contracts with a single messaging provider. You must use that specific platform. Messages sent through the wrong provider will not reach the inmate.
Federal inmates use CorrLinks only
All federal Bureau of Prisons facilities use CorrLinks exclusively. JPay, GettingOut, and other commercial platforms do not work at federal institutions.
Messages are reviewed before delivery
All messages go through a staff review process before reaching the inmate. This is standard across every platform and every facility type.
The inmate must initiate contact in some cases
At federal facilities and some state systems, the inmate must first add your email to their approved contact list before you can send messages.
Costs vary by platform and state
Pricing is set by facility contracts and varies by state and provider. Always compare available options at your specific facility to find the best rate.
Common Questions About Inmate Messaging
How does inmate messaging work?
Inmate messaging works through a facility-approved platform, such as JPay or CorrLinks. You create an account, add the inmate using their ID number, and send messages through the platform's website or app. Messages are reviewed by facility staff before delivery to the inmate. The inmate reads and responds using a tablet or kiosk inside the facility.
What is the cheapest way to send messages to an inmate?
The cost depends on the provider and facility. JPay charges per stamp, typically $0.33 to $0.47 per message. CorrLinks charges per character for federal inmates. Pigeonly's subscription plan can lower costs if you message regularly. Comparing pricing between available providers at your specific facility is the best way to reduce costs.
How long does it take for a message to arrive?
Most messages are delivered within 24 to 48 hours on business days. Delivery time includes the review process by facility staff. Some facilities process messages faster, especially those with higher tablet access. The inmate's response time depends on when they access their device and facility schedules.
Does inmate messaging work at federal prisons?
Yes, but only through CorrLinks, which is the Bureau of Prisons' official email system. JPay, GettingOut, and other state and county providers do not work at federal facilities. To message a federal inmate, the inmate must first send you an invitation through their TRULINCS system before you can create a CorrLinks account and reply.
Can I use a regular email to contact an inmate?
No. Regular email does not work. Inmates do not have access to standard email services. All electronic messaging at correctional facilities goes through approved platforms with a secure review process. You must use the specific provider contracted by the facility where your loved one is housed.
Can an inmate receive messages from multiple people?
Yes. Most platforms allow an inmate to receive messages from multiple approved contacts. Each contact sets up their own account. However, some facilities limit the number of approved contacts or require the inmate to manually approve each one. Check the specific facility rules or platform guidelines for contact limits.