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 Bell County Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Bell 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 Bell County Jail.

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

   Mailing address:

   Bell County Jail
   1201 Huey Dr
   Belton, TX 76513
   Phone: (254) 933-5400

   Business hours:

   • Monday: Open 24 hours
   • Tuesday: Open 24 hours
   • Wednesday: Open 24 hours
   • Thursday: Open 24 hours
   • Friday: Open 24 hours
   • Saturday: Open 24 hours
   • Sunday: Open 24 hours

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

   Visiting hours at Bell 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 (254) 933-5400 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 Bell 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 Bell County Jail for their specific mail policies.

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

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

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Bell 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 Bell 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 Bell 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 Bell 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 Bell County Jail. The facility typically emphasizes helping inmates build practical abilities and address underlying challenges that may have contributed to their incarceration. This approach recognizes that meaningful change often requires both educational advancement and personal support systems.

Educational services may provide inmates with opportunities to complete their GED preparation through structured classroom instruction. Additionally, vocational training services often focus on developing marketable job skills that can support successful reintegration into the community. These educational components typically aim to address gaps in formal learning while building confidence and practical knowledge.

Support services often include work programs that allow inmates to gain hands-on experience in various tasks, including janitorial services that teach responsibility and work ethic. Faith-based initiatives may offer spiritual guidance and community connection for those who choose to participate. The facility typically provides reentry preparation services to help inmates plan for their release, while life coaching services may focus on developing problem-solving skills and healthy decision-making strategies. These comprehensive support services often work together to address both immediate needs and long-term success after release.

Daily Life & Visitation

The housing units at Bell County Jail feature dormitory-style accommodations and individual cells that shape much of the daily experience for inmates. Inmates now follow structured schedules that typically begin with early morning counts and meal service. The facility regularly maintains order through scheduled activities, with inmates moving between housing areas, dining halls, and program spaces throughout the day.

Living conditions generally include shared sleeping quarters in some units, while others may offer more individual space depending on classification levels. Inmates typically receive three meals daily in designated dining areas, with meal times serving as key anchors in the daily routine. Personal property allowances usually include basic hygiene items and a limited amount of approved clothing. The commissary provides additional items that inmates can purchase to supplement their basic needs.

Additionally, the facility may offer recreational opportunities such as television viewing areas and outdoor exercise periods when weather permits. Work assignments often include kitchen duties, cleaning tasks, and facility maintenance roles that provide structure and purpose. While programming schedules vary, inmates typically have access to educational materials and may participate in group activities. Visitation policies generally allow family members to maintain contact through scheduled visits, and phone privileges provide regular communication opportunities. These connections often help inmates adapt to the institutional environment while maintaining important relationships with their support systems.