How to Send Messages to Inmates

You can use your phone or computer to send emails, letters, and photos to an inmate. Messages are sent electronically to inmate tablets or kiosks at the facility. If you would like to send a message, start by searching for an inmate at Allen County Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Allen County Jail is to send photos and postcards. It only takes a few minutes to send photos from your phone and it makes a huge difference. You can also mail postcards with words of support and inspiration, or design your own postcard for special moments like birthdays and holidays.

Important! Be sure not to send any explicit photos or they may not be approved by the facility. You can also use a photo printing app like Penmate to make sure your photos are printed at the correct size (4x6 or 3x5) and are mailed according to the rules and regulations of Allen County Jail.

Frequently asked questions about Allen County Jail

1. How long does it take to deliver a message?

   If you're sending an email message your letter is usually delivered within 24-48 hours. For messages sent via mail you should expect delivery within 3-7 days. All messages will need be approved by Allen County Jail.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Allen County Jail?

   You can send a message free using your phone or mail a message via USPS for the price of a $0.60 stamp and envelope. You can also purchase credits or e-stamps from services starting at $1.99.

3. What services can I use to contact an inmate at Allen County Jail?

   Penmate

   You can use Penmate to send letters and photos to an inmate from your phone. It's an easy way to stay in touch during your loved one's incarceration. Use the inmate locator to find an inmate's location and contact information, then you can send messages within a few minutes.

   Securus messaging

   Securus may be another option for communicating with an inmate at Allen County Jail. You can create a friends and family account and purchase credits to send messages. All messages will be reviewed and must be approved by the facility.

   JPay

   Some county jails and state prisons may support sending messages with JPay. You must register an account with the system, find your loved one, and purchase stamps to send messages. For some locations you can also attach photos.

   Smart Jail Mail

   You may also check if Smart Jail Mail is available at Allen County Jail. Smart Jail Mail is operated by Smart Communications and has contracted with some state and county jails. After purchasing credits, your messages and photos are sent to the facility, printed out, and then handed out to your loved one.

4. What is the mailing address of Allen County Jail?

   Mailing address:

   Allen County Jail
   101 E Superior St
   Fort Wayne, IN 46802
   Phone: (260) 449-7376

   Business hours:

   • Monday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
   • Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
   • Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
   • Thursday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
   • Friday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
   • Saturday: Closed
   • Sunday: Closed

5. What are the visiting hours at Allen County Jail?

   Visiting hours at Allen County Jail vary by housing unit and security level. Generally, visits are scheduled on weekends and holidays, with some facilities offering weekday visits. Contact the facility directly at (260) 449-7376 or check their website for the current visiting schedule. Visits typically last 30-60 minutes and must be scheduled in advance.

6. What items are prohibited when sending mail to Allen County Jail?

   Prohibited items typically include: cash, personal checks, stamps, stickers, glitter, glue, tape, staples, paperclips, polaroid photos, musical or blank greeting cards, hardcover books, magazines with staples, and any items containing metal or electronics. Only send letters on plain white paper with blue or black ink. Photos must be printed on regular photo paper (no Polaroids). Always check with Allen County Jail for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Allen County Jail?

   You can send money to an inmate at Allen County Jail through several methods: 1) Online using JPay, Access Corrections, or the facility's approved vendor, 2) Money orders mailed directly to the facility with the inmate's name and ID number, 3) Kiosks located in the facility lobby, or 4) Over the phone using a credit or debit card. Fees vary by method, typically ranging from $2.95 to $11.95 per transaction.

8. Can I schedule a video visit with an inmate at Allen County Jail?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Allen County Jail, video visits may be available through services like Penmate, Securus Video Connect, GTL, or ICSolutions. Video visits typically cost $10-20 for 20-30 minutes and must be scheduled in advance. You'll need a computer or smartphone with a camera and reliable internet connection. Contact the facility for their specific video visitation policies and approved vendors.

9. What identification do I need to visit an inmate at Allen County Jail?

   All visitors must present valid government-issued photo identification such as a driver's license, state ID, passport, or military ID. Minors must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian who can provide the minor's birth certificate. Some facilities require visitors to be on the inmate's approved visitation list, which may require a background check. Contact Allen County Jail for specific ID requirements and visitor approval procedures.

10. How can I find out an inmate's release date?

    To find an inmate's release date at Allen County Jail, you can: 1) Use the online inmate search tool if available, 2) Call the facility's records department, 3) Contact the inmate's case manager or counselor, or 4) Have the inmate provide this information during a call or visit. For privacy reasons, some facilities only release this information to immediate family members.

Programs & Services

Personal growth and skill development form the foundation of rehabilitation services at Allen County Jail. The facility typically emphasizes building practical abilities that inmates can use both during incarceration and after release. This approach recognizes that meaningful change often begins with education and hands-on learning opportunities that address individual needs and circumstances.

Educational services may provide inmates with opportunities to advance their academic skills through various learning programs. ESL classes often help non-English speaking inmates develop language proficiency for better communication and future employment prospects. Also, vocational training services typically focus on construction trades and other practical skills that can lead to employment opportunities upon release. These hands-on programs may teach inmates valuable technical abilities while providing structured learning environments.

Support services often include faith-based programs that address spiritual and emotional well-being during incarceration. Housing assistance services may help inmates prepare for successful reintegration by connecting them with resources for stable living arrangements after release. Also, therapeutic services typically provide counseling and mental health support to address underlying issues that may contribute to criminal behavior. These comprehensive support systems work together to create a foundation for positive change and community reintegration.

Daily Life & Visitation

The housing units at Allen County Jail feature dormitory-style accommodations and individual cells that house inmates throughout their stay. Daily routines currently begin with early morning counts and meal service, and the structured schedule continues with designated times for recreation, programming, and facility maintenance. Inmates typically adapt to the regimented environment by following established protocols for movement between areas and participating in assigned activities.

Living conditions generally include basic furnishings and shared common areas where inmates may interact during approved periods. The facility typically provides three meals daily in designated dining areas, with inmates following specific seating arrangements and time limits. Personal property allowances usually include essential items, and commissary services may offer additional food items and hygiene products for purchase.

Also available are various work assignments within the facility that provide structure and may include kitchen duties, cleaning responsibilities, and maintenance tasks. However, programming schedules often include educational opportunities and recreational activities when staffing and security considerations permit. Visitation policies typically allow family members to maintain contact through scheduled visits and phone calls, though specific arrangements generally depend on housing classification and behavioral compliance. These connections often help inmates adapt to the institutional environment while maintaining important family relationships during their incarceration.