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 Bingham County Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Bingham 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 Bingham County Jail.

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

   Mailing address:

   Bingham County Jail
   501 N Maple St
   Blackfoot, ID 83221
   Phone: (208) 785-1238

   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 Bingham County Jail?

   Visiting hours at Bingham 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 (208) 785-1238 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 Bingham 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 Bingham County Jail for their specific mail policies.

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

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

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

Through comprehensive support services, the population at Bingham County Jail receives assistance designed to address underlying challenges and prepare them for successful community reintegration. The facility typically emphasizes a holistic approach to rehabilitation, recognizing that meaningful change often occurs when individuals have access to multiple pathways for personal growth and skill development. These programs may supply structured opportunities for participants to build confidence, develop new capabilities, and strengthen connections with family and community resources.

Educational programs form a cornerstone of the facility's offerings, with participants often having access to basic literacy instruction, GED preparation, and college correspondence courses that allow continued academic advancement. Vocational training programs typically complement these educational opportunities by providing practical skills training in various trade areas, helping the population develop marketable abilities for future employment. These learning-focused initiatives may supply both immediate intellectual engagement and long-term career preparation benefits.

In addition to these academic and vocational programs, the facility often includes work programs that provide structured daily activities while teaching responsibility and work ethic. Music programs may offer creative outlets and stress relief, while family reunification services typically focus on rebuilding and strengthening relationships with loved ones. Peer support groups often provide valuable opportunities for participants to share experiences, offer mutual encouragement, and develop healthy coping strategies together, creating a supportive community environment that extends beyond individual program participation.

Daily Life & Visitation

Organizational systems shape every aspect of the experience for the population at Bingham County Jail, where structured routines consistently guide daily activities. Today's schedule typically begins with early morning counts and meal service, followed by programming opportunities that may include educational classes or work assignments. The facility generally maintains regular intervals for meals, recreation periods, and mandatory counts throughout the day. Housing units operate under clear guidelines that help maintain order while providing necessary services to residents.

In addition to this structured approach, living accommodations typically feature dormitory-style or cell-based housing depending on classification levels and available space. The population generally shares common areas for dining, where meals are served at designated times in controlled groups. Personal property policies usually allow basic hygiene items and limited personal belongings, while commissary services may provide additional items for purchase. Recreation opportunities often include outdoor exercise periods and indoor activities, though these depend on facility capacity and security considerations.

Despite this regimented environment, the facility typically supplies various programs aimed at maintaining connections with family and community. Visitation policies generally allow scheduled visits with approved family members and friends, while telephone access may be available during designated hours. Work assignments within the facility often include kitchen duties, cleaning responsibilities, and maintenance tasks that help residents maintain productive routines. Programming schedules may encompass substance abuse education, life skills courses, or religious services, providing structure that extends beyond basic housing and security needs.