How to Address a Letter to an Inmate
Quick Answer: Inmate Mail Address Format
- Line 1: Inmate's full legal name + Inmate ID number
- Line 2: Facility name
- Line 3: Facility address, City, State ZIP
- Critical: Always include your return address and check facility-specific mail rules
If you want to send a letter to someone in jail or prison, you need to use the correct inmate address format and follow that facility's mail rules. Each jail and prison sets its own policies for how to address inmate mail, what you can send, and how letters are screened. Knowing exactly how to address a letter to an inmate, and how to send a letter to an inmate the right way, helps your mail get through screening and reach them faster.
⚠️ Important: Facility Rules Change Frequently
Jail and prison mail rules change frequently and vary by facility. Always confirm the current mail policy on the facility's website before you send anything. Rules about photos, money, stamps, and content restrictions differ between facilities.
In This Guide
Standard Inmate Address Format (Envelope Example)
Address mail to inmates using this format:
- Line 1: Inmate's full legal name
- Line 2: Inmate ID number (required at most facilities)
- Line 3: Facility name
- Line 4: Facility street address
- Line 5: City, State ZIP Code
Example:
John Michael Smith #12345678
State Correctional Institution
1000 Prison Road
Anytown, PA 17001
Some facilities prefer the ID number on the same line as the name. Check the specific facility's requirements.
How to Find the Right Inmate Address and ID
To address mail correctly, you need:
- Full legal name: Use the name the inmate was booked under, not nicknames
- Inmate ID number: Search the facility's online database or contact them directly
- Facility address: Available on the facility's website or through state/federal corrections department sites
✓ Inmate Locator Resources
- Federal inmates: Bureau of Prisons Inmate Locator at bop.gov
- State inmates: Search your state's department of corrections website
- County jails: Contact the jail directly or check their website
Return Address Requirements
Your return address is required on all mail to inmates in many systems. Include:
- Your full legal name (not a nickname or business name)
- Complete street address
- City, State ZIP Code
⚠️ No Return Address = Automatic Rejection
Mail without a return address is often rejected during screening. Some facilities require a physical street address in the return address and may not accept PO Boxes.
Envelope and Paper Requirements
Most jails and prisons have strict rules about what can be sent. Typical rules include:
- Use white or light-colored envelopes only
- No padded envelopes or packages (unless approved)
- Many facilities prefer plain white paper and may reject colored or heavily decorated paper
- No glitter, stickers, or decorations
- No Polaroid or instant photos (some facilities ban all photos)
- No crayon or marker (pen or pencil only)
- No perfume or scented items
Content Restrictions
All mail is read by facility staff. Prohibited content typically includes:
- Anything discussing illegal activity or escape plans
- Threats or harassment
- Sexually explicit content (rules vary by facility)
- Information about other inmates or facility security
- Gang-related material or coded language
- Anything that could be used as a weapon or tool
❌ Common Reasons Mail Gets Rejected
- Missing or incomplete return address
- Wrong inmate name or ID number
- Decorations, stickers, or perfume on envelope
- Prohibited items enclosed (stamps, cash, Polaroids)
- Wrong envelope color or type
- Content that violates facility rules
Sending Money
Never send cash through the mail to inmates. Most jails and prisons require deposits through approved services and may reject mail that contains cash. Common deposit methods include:
- Money orders made out to the inmate (some facilities accept these)
- Online deposit through services like JPay, GTL, or Access Corrections
- Kiosk deposits at the facility
Check the facility's website for accepted payment methods.
Sending Books and Magazines
Many facilities accept books and magazines but with restrictions:
- Must be shipped directly from an approved retailer (Amazon, Barnes and Noble)
- Paperback only (some ban hardcovers)
- No spiral bindings
- Subject matter restrictions apply (no weapons, drugs, or gang content)
- Some facilities use approved vendor lists only
Inmate Mail Processing Times and Delays
Expect delays due to security screening:
- Standard processing: 3 to 7 days after arrival at the facility
- Some facilities photocopy all mail before delivering to inmates
- Holiday periods and lockdowns cause additional delays
- Rejected mail may take weeks to be returned to you
Skip the Envelope and Stamps
If you already know the inmate's correct address, you can have The Letter Pilot print and mail your letter for you. Type your message online, and we handle printing, addressing, and mailing through USPS. No printer, envelopes, or post office trip required.
Send a Letter Online →Frequently Asked Questions
How do I address a letter to an inmate?
Use the inmate's full legal name, inmate ID number, facility name, facility street address, and city, state, ZIP Code. Always check the jail or prison website for the exact format they require.
What happens if I use the wrong name or ID number?
Your mail will usually be delayed or returned as undeliverable. Always verify the inmate's full legal name and current ID number before sending.
Can I send photos?
Many facilities allow a limited number of photos per letter. Rules vary: some ban all photos, others allow only 4x6 prints, and most ban Polaroids. Check facility rules.
Can inmates receive certified mail?
Some facilities accept certified mail; others do not. Regular First Class Mail is typically the safest option. Call the facility to confirm.
Why was my letter rejected?
Common reasons include: no return address, prohibited content, wrong envelope type, decorations on the envelope, or incorrect inmate information. The rejection notice should state the reason.
How do I know if an inmate received my letter?
There is no automatic confirmation. The inmate can write back to confirm receipt. Some facilities offer mail tracking for an additional fee.
Can I send stamps to an inmate?
Policies vary. Some facilities allow loose stamps; others only allow stamps purchased through the commissary. Many facilities now ban outside stamps entirely due to contraband concerns.
What if the inmate was transferred?
Mail may be forwarded to the new facility or returned to you. Use the inmate locator to find their current location before sending mail.
Send Inmate Mail Without the Hassle
Letters submitted before 8 PM ET through The Letter Pilot are printed and mailed the next business day. Our pricing starts at $4.99 per letter, plus postage.
Mail a Letter Today →Related Guides
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