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 Amador County Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Amador 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 Amador County Jail.

Frequently asked questions about Amador 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 Amador County Jail.

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

   Mailing address:

   Amador County Jail
   700 Court St
   Jackson, CA 95642
   Phone: (209) 223-6522

   Business hours:

   • Monday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Thursday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Saturday: Closed
   • Sunday: Closed

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

   Visiting hours at Amador 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 (209) 223-6522 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 Amador 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 Amador County Jail for their specific mail policies.

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

   You can send money to an inmate at Amador 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 Amador County Jail?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Amador 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 Amador 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 Amador 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 Amador 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

The Amador County Correctional facility operates with a mission centered on providing opportunities for inmates who choose to serve the community in meaningful ways while making personal improvements. This approach reflects the facility's commitment to rehabilitation alongside its primary responsibility of maintaining public safety and housing both sentenced and unsentenced individuals in accordance with Title 15 of the California Code of Regulations.

Communication services form a cornerstone of inmate support at the facility, with all arrested individuals entitled to three free local calls or collect long distance calls within three hours of arrest. The facility maintains confidential communication channels for calls to attorneys, physicians, clergy, sexual assault counselors, and psychotherapists, while housed inmates may access telephones in their cell block day rooms between 6:00 A.M. and 11:00 P.M. for collect or credit card calls. Beyond these communication services, the facility may offer educational programs typical of California correctional facilities, potentially including GED preparation, literacy courses, and vocational training opportunities that align with their goal of meaningful community service.

Mental health and substance abuse counseling services are likely available to support inmates' personal improvement goals, along with religious services and support groups that may help individuals address underlying issues. The facility's emphasis on treating all people with dignity and respect suggests a supportive environment for rehabilitation programs, though specific program availability may vary based on staffing, funding, and individual inmate needs. Work programs within the facility may provide opportunities for inmates to contribute to daily operations while developing job skills for successful reintegration into the community.

Daily Life & Visitation

The Amador County Correctional facility operates with telephone access from 6:00 A.M. to 11:00 P.M., providing inmates with structured communication opportunities throughout their stay. With a state-rated capacity for 76 inmates—65 males and 11 females—the facility maintains separate housing areas that typically include day rooms where inmates can make collect or credit card calls to family members. Upon arrest, individuals receive three free local calls or three collect long-distance calls within three hours, allowing them to arrange bail, contact attorneys, or notify loved ones of their situation.

The corrections staff focuses on providing basic life needs including adequate food and healthcare while maintaining safety standards outlined in Title 15 of the California Code of Regulations. Inmates may have opportunities to participate in community service programs, though specific details vary based on individual circumstances and facility needs. The day room areas typically serve multiple purposes, functioning as spaces for telephone use, recreation, and social interaction during designated hours. Privacy protections ensure that calls to attorneys, physicians, clergy, and counselors cannot be monitored, while other communications may be recorded for security purposes.

Living conditions at the facility emphasize dignity and respect for all individuals while maintaining necessary security protocols. The corrections division may offer various programs aimed at personal improvement, though availability often depends on staffing and facility resources. Inmates typically follow structured daily schedules that include meal times, recreation periods, and access to basic services, all designed to maintain order while providing opportunities for those who choose to engage in meaningful activities during their time at the facility.