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 Banks County Sheriff's Office.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Banks County Sheriff's Office 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 Banks County Sheriff's Office.

Frequently asked questions about Banks County Sheriff's Office

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 Banks County Sheriff's Office.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Banks County Sheriff's Office?

   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 Banks County Sheriff's Office?

   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 Banks County Sheriff's Office. 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 Banks County Sheriff's Office. 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 Banks County Sheriff's Office?

   Mailing address:

   Banks County Sheriff's Office
   160 Windmill Farm Rd
   Homer, GA 30547
   Phone: (706) 677-2248

5. What are the visiting hours at Banks County Sheriff's Office?

   Visiting hours at Banks County Sheriff's Office 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 (706) 677-2248 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 Banks County Sheriff's Office?

   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 Banks County Sheriff's Office for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Banks County Sheriff's Office?

   You can send money to an inmate at Banks County Sheriff's Office 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 Banks County Sheriff's Office?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Banks County Sheriff's Office, 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 Banks County Sheriff's Office?

   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 Banks County Sheriff's Office 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 Banks County Sheriff's Office, 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

A comprehensive range of development opportunities at Banks County Jail emphasizes skill-building and personal growth for individuals during their time in custody. The facility typically recognizes that meaningful programming can play a vital role in preparing individuals for successful community reintegration. These opportunities often focus on addressing various aspects of personal development through structured activities and educational initiatives.

Educational advancement forms a cornerstone of available programming, with education programs that may include basic literacy instruction, GED preparation, and continuing education opportunities. Vocational training opportunities often complement academic learning by providing hands-on skill development in various trades and technical fields. These programs typically aim to equip individuals with marketable skills that can support employment upon release.

In addition to educational and vocational offerings, Banks County Jail may provide comprehensive support services designed to address personal and spiritual needs. Faith-based services often offer spiritual guidance and community support for those seeking religious involvement. Specialized training opportunities, such as electrical work programs, may provide technical skills in high-demand fields. Transitional planning services typically help individuals prepare for release by connecting them with community resources and developing reentry strategies that support long-term success.

Daily Life & Visitation

The sound of morning announcements typically marks the beginning of each day, as individuals at Banks County Jail prepare for a structured routine that generally begins in the early hours. At present, the facility actively maintains scheduled meal times, count procedures, and designated periods for various activities throughout the day. The daily structure usually includes regular headcounts, meal service in common areas or housing units, and opportunities for recreation when available. Individuals typically follow established protocols for movement within the facility and generally participate in assigned activities or work details as determined by staff.

In addition to this structured routine, living accommodations generally consist of shared housing units where individuals may be assigned based on classification levels and security considerations. The facility typically provides basic necessities including bedding, personal hygiene items, and access to commissary services where individuals can purchase additional items with funds from their accounts. Meals are usually served at designated times and may include breakfast, lunch, and dinner prepared according to standard nutritional guidelines. Personal property is generally limited to approved items, and individuals typically store belongings in designated areas within their housing assignments.

Despite this controlled environment, the facility often offers recreational opportunities such as television viewing in common areas, reading materials, and outdoor recreation when weather and security conditions permit. Visitation policies generally allow family members and approved visitors to maintain contact through scheduled visits, which may be conducted in-person or via video conferencing systems. Communication options typically include access to telephone services and mail correspondence, helping individuals maintain connections with their support systems. Work assignments within the facility may offer structure and responsibility, with individuals potentially participating in food service, maintenance, or cleaning duties as part of daily operations.