TextBehind
Simple messaging and photo delivery for incarcerated loved ones
- 25+
- States Covered
- 600+
- Facilities Supported
- 2 of 5
- Services Offered
- Yes
- Mobile App Available
TextBehind Inmate Communication Overview
TextBehind is a messaging and photo delivery service designed with simplicity as a core principle. The platform allows families to send electronic messages and photos to incarcerated individuals at more than 600 correctional facilities across 25 states. Unlike full-service providers that require account setup, funding, and navigation of multiple service options, TextBehind is designed to reduce friction — some features are available without creating an account at all, making it an accessible option for families who only need to send an occasional message or photo rather than maintain an ongoing multi-service communication setup.
Messages sent through TextBehind are converted to printed letters and delivered to the inmate through the facility's mail system at some locations, while others support digital delivery depending on the facility's capabilities. Photo delivery follows a similar model — photos are printed on photo paper and sent as physical mail, arriving within the normal mail processing timeline. This print-based delivery model means families do not need to worry about whether a facility has tablet or kiosk access for the inmate, as the final form is physical mail that any facility can process.
TextBehind does not offer phone calls, video visitation, or money transfers. It is a messaging and photo service only. For families who need a complete communication solution covering phone, video, and money, TextBehind works best as a supplement to another provider rather than as a standalone solution. For families who primarily want to send letters and photos and prefer the ease of a smartphone app over navigating traditional mail, TextBehind offers a streamlined alternative that many find more convenient than printing and mailing physical letters.
TextBehind Services
Communication services offered by TextBehind and what each one includes.
Messaging
Send messages from your phone or computer. Messages are converted to printed letters and delivered through the facility mail system.
Per-message pricing. Some facilities support digital delivery; others receive printed letters. Delivery times depend on facility mail processing.
Set Up MessagingVideo Calls
TextBehind does not offer video visitation services.
For video visits, consider GettingOut, ConnectNetwork, or Securus depending on the facility.
Photo Sharing
Send digital photos that are printed and mailed to the inmate as physical photo prints.
Per-photo pricing. Photos are printed on quality paper and delivered through facility mail. Must comply with facility content guidelines.
Set Up Photo SharingPhone Calls
TextBehind does not provide phone call services.
For phone services, set up an account with the facility's contracted phone provider (Securus, GTL, or ConnectNetwork).
Money Transfer
TextBehind does not handle commissary deposits or money transfers.
For money transfers, use JPay, ConnectNetwork, or the facility's contracted money transfer provider.
TextBehind Coverage
Facility types and geographic regions served by this provider.
Facility Types
Geographic Coverage
25+ states, covering both state and county facilities
Coverage Notes
TextBehind's coverage is more limited than full-service providers like JPay or GettingOut. Families should confirm TextBehind serves the specific facility before using the service.
TextBehind Pricing Overview
Approximate pricing for common services. Exact rates may vary by facility and state contract.
TextBehind Fee Schedule
- Account Registration
- No account required for basic features.
- Free
- Message
- Per message sent.
- $0.49
- Photo
- Per printed photo delivered.
- $0.99–$1.49
Prices are estimates based on publicly available information and may change. Confirm current pricing on the TextBehind website before use.
TextBehind — Pros & Cons
An honest look at the strengths and limitations of TextBehind.
Strengths
- Simple and accessible, with minimal setup required for basic messaging.
- Physical print delivery works at virtually any facility, including those without digital kiosks.
- Good for occasional contact without committing to a full-service provider account.
- Clean mobile app that is easy for first-time users.
- No account required for some services, lowering the barrier to first contact.
Limitations
- Messaging and photos only. No phone, video, or money transfer.
- Print-based delivery is slower than digital delivery at platforms like JPay.
- Coverage limited to 25 states, smaller than JPay or GettingOut.
- Not a complete communication solution for ongoing, multi-channel contact.
- Per-message pricing without a subscription option for frequent users.
Frequently Asked Questions: TextBehind
Common questions from families about using TextBehind.
- Do I need to create an account to use TextBehind?
- Not for all features. TextBehind allows some basic messaging without requiring an account, which makes it accessible for one-time or infrequent use. Creating an account unlocks additional features and makes it easier to track message history and manage contacts.
- How does TextBehind deliver messages to inmates?
- Messages sent through TextBehind are converted to printed letters and delivered to the inmate through the facility's regular mail system. At some facilities, digital delivery is supported. Delivery time depends on how quickly the facility processes incoming mail, typically one to three business days after the message is sent.
- Can I use TextBehind for phone calls or video visits?
- No. TextBehind is a messaging and photo service only. For phone calls, set up an account with the facility's phone provider (typically Securus, GTL/ConnectNetwork, or ICSolutions). For video visits, use a platform like GettingOut or ConnectNetwork depending on the facility.
- How are photos delivered through TextBehind?
- Photos uploaded through TextBehind are printed on photo paper and mailed to the inmate as physical prints. This means photos arrive through the facility mail system. Photos must meet facility content guidelines. Inappropriate images will not be processed or delivered.
- Is TextBehind available at federal prisons?
- TextBehind coverage at federal facilities is limited. For electronic messaging at federal Bureau of Prisons institutions, CorrLinks is the required and only approved platform. TextBehind's physical letter and photo service may still be available as a supplement, since physical mail is generally accepted at all facilities.
Compare TextBehind With Other Providers
See how this provider stacks up against the alternatives.
Related Providers
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Get Started with TextBehind
Visit the official TextBehind website to create your account, or browse supported facilities and compare alternatives to find the best option for your family.