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 Calaveras County Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Calaveras 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 Calaveras County Jail.

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

   Mailing address:

   Calaveras County Jail
   1045 Jeff Tuttle Dr
   San Andreas, CA 95249
   Phone: (209) 754-6499

   Business hours:

   • Monday: 8:00 – 11:30 AM
   • 12:30 – 4:00 PM
   • Tuesday: 8:00 – 11:30 AM
   • 12:30 – 4:00 PM
   • Wednesday: 8:00 – 11:30 AM
   • 12:30 – 4:00 PM
   • Thursday: 8:00 – 11:30 AM
   • 12:30 – 4:00 PM
   • Friday: 8:00 – 11:30 AM
   • 12:30 – 4:00 PM
   • Saturday: Closed
   • Sunday: Closed

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

   Visiting hours at Calaveras 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) 754-6499 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 Calaveras 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 Calaveras County Jail for their specific mail policies.

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

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

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

Rehabilitation and personal growth form the foundation of supportive services designed to help the population develop essential life skills and address underlying challenges. The facility typically emphasizes a comprehensive approach that recognizes each individual's potential for positive change. Programs are structured to provide practical tools and emotional support that can benefit participants both during their stay and upon their return to the community.

Educational initiatives may supply opportunities for the population to pursue basic literacy skills, GED preparation, and continuing education coursework. These programs often include computer literacy training and life skills workshops that cover topics such as financial management and job search techniques. Moreover, vocational training programs typically focus on developing marketable skills in areas that align with local employment opportunities, helping participants build confidence while preparing for successful reintegration.

Individual counseling services provide personalized support to help the population work through personal challenges and develop healthy coping strategies. Anger management programs often include group sessions where participants can learn conflict resolution techniques and emotional regulation skills. Moreover, rehabilitation programs may supply structured environments for addressing substance abuse issues and other behavioral concerns, emphasizing the importance of family connections and community support networks in the recovery process.

Daily Life & Visitation

Structured schedules and established protocols now govern every aspect of life within the facility, creating predictable routines that help the population navigate their daily experiences. Count times regularly punctuate the day, while meal service, programming, and recreation periods follow consistent patterns. Housing assignments typically determine when individuals access various services, with different units rotating through activities at designated intervals. Work assignments within the facility may include kitchen duties, laundry services, and general maintenance tasks that help maintain operations while providing structure for participants.

Living accommodations generally consist of shared cells or dormitory-style housing units, where the population manages personal belongings within established guidelines. Each housing area typically includes common spaces where individuals can interact during approved periods. Meals are usually served in designated dining areas or delivered to housing units, depending on the facility's current operational procedures. The commissary system allows the population to purchase approved personal items and food products, typically operating on a scheduled basis throughout the week.

Moreover, recreational opportunities may include access to outdoor exercise areas, television viewing in common spaces, and organized activities when staffing permits. Visitation arrangements typically follow established schedules, allowing family members and approved visitors to maintain contact through in-person visits or video calling systems. Programming schedules often supply educational classes, substance abuse counseling, and other rehabilitative services designed to support reentry preparation. Communication with family members usually includes monitored phone calls and correspondence, helping the population maintain important relationships during their stay at the facility.