How IDOC’s Mail Scanning Works and How to Stop Unwanted Contact

IDOC doesn't deliver original paper mail for incoming non-privileged correspondence. Instead, mailroom staff scan the front and back of the envelope and every item inside (letters, greeting cards, photographs) in color. Those scans are saved as PDF images and uploaded to the incarcerated person's Bulletin Board. They can then download and view the PDFs on their tablet. So what they see is a digital image of what you sent, not the physical item itself.

A few categories skip the scanning process entirely. Publications are not scanned or photocopied. Official documents mailed from a government entity are also exempt. IDOC lists birth certificates and Social Security cards as examples of the types of documents covered by this exception.

The easiest way to get mail rejected? Leave off the return address. IDOC prohibits incoming mail that doesn't include one, so a letter without a return address can be turned away under their incoming mail policy.

1. Complete the Mail Stop and Phone Restriction Request form. This is the form IDOC uses for requests to stop mail or phone contact from an incarcerated individual.

• ✓ Email the completed form to DOC.VictimServices@illinois.gov
• ✓ Mail the completed form to the Victim Services Unit