How Arizona’s new digital mail system works (what happens to your letters for Red Rock inmates)

Digital mail means your letter gets scanned at a central facility before being delivered electronically. Rather than handing over the paper you sent, the system makes the scanned version available on your loved one's secured tablet or through an electronic kiosk.

Not everything goes through digital scanning. Legal mail, packages, publications, and certain official government documents (like checks) are typically handled differently. If you're sending something in one of those categories, expect a different procedure than standard personal letters.

Once your mail arrives at the processing center, Securus (ADCRR's partner) aims to scan and deliver it digitally within 3 business days. That clock starts when they receive it - so add normal postal delivery time on top. Your loved one's actual wait will be longer than just the processing window.

No tablet? Your loved one can still get their mail. They can view scanned letters through an electronic kiosk at the facility, or request a printed black-and-white copy.

The original paper letter doesn't stay in circulation after scanning. Securus stores it for 90 days, then professionally disposes of it. If the physical original matters to you - photos, handwriting, keepsakes - keep that 90-day window in mind when deciding whether you want it returned.

Return Original Sase

• ✓ Include a self-addressed, stamped envelope (SASE) inside your correspondence if you want the original hardcopy returned after scanning.
• ✓ Address the return envelope to yourself (your name and mailing address), and add enough postage for the items you’re sending back.
• ✓ Put the SASE in the same mailing as your letter so it’s available when the original is handled after scanning.

Run into problems with missing scans, access issues, or have general questions? Securus Customer Service is available 24/7 at (800) 844-6591.

Good news: there's no extra fee. Sending a letter costs you the same as before, and receiving it digitally doesn't cost the incarcerated person anything.