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 California State Prison - Sacramento.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at California State Prison - Sacramento 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 California State Prison - Sacramento.

Frequently asked questions about California State Prison - Sacramento

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 California State Prison - Sacramento.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to California State Prison - Sacramento?

   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 California State Prison - Sacramento?

   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 California State Prison - Sacramento. 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 California State Prison - Sacramento. 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 California State Prison - Sacramento?

   Mailing address:

   California State Prison - Sacramento
   100 Folsom Prison Rd
   Folsom, CA 95671
   Phone: (916) 985-8610

   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 California State Prison - Sacramento?

   Visiting hours at California State Prison - Sacramento 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 (916) 985-8610 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 California State Prison - Sacramento?

   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 California State Prison - Sacramento for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at California State Prison - Sacramento?

   You can send money to an inmate at California State Prison - Sacramento 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 California State Prison - Sacramento?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At California State Prison - Sacramento, 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 California State Prison - Sacramento?

   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 California State Prison - Sacramento 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 California State Prison - Sacramento, 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

The Division of Rehabilitative Programs (DRP) at California State Prison, Sacramento operates comprehensive substance use disorder treatment through the Integrated Substance Use Disorder Treatment (ISUDT) program, which includes both intensive outpatient and standard outpatient cognitive behavioral interventions. This evidence-based approach reflects the facility's commitment to addressing underlying issues that may contribute to criminal behavior. Educational opportunities encompass Adult Basic Education, High School/GED preparation, and specialized programs including Computer Literacy and eLearning initiatives, while the Peer Literacy Mentor Program provides additional academic support through resident-to-resident assistance.

Vocational training programs prepare individuals for post-release employment through hands-on instruction in janitorial services, office services, electronics, plumbing, and building maintenance. The Prison Industry Authority (PIA) operates administration, laundry, and warehouse programs that may provide work experience and job skills development. Medical services include specialized units such as the Psychiatric Services Unit (PSU), Enhanced Outpatient Program (EOP), and the Correctional Clinical Case Management System (CCCMS), ensuring comprehensive healthcare support for residents with varying needs.

Additional programming typically includes religious services, Arts in Corrections creative programs, and various self-help groups that may focus on life skills development, anger management, or other behavioral interventions. Library and law library services support both educational pursuits and legal research needs, while recreation programs and coaching opportunities may promote physical wellness and teamwork skills. The Transitions Program likely assists individuals preparing for release by addressing reentry planning and community connections.

Daily Life & Visitation

The sounds of institutional life begin early at California State Prison, Sacramento, where incarcerated individuals typically start their days around 6:00 AM with count procedures and meal service. Located at 100 Prison Road in Represa, this facility operates comprehensive programming that structures much of residents' daily schedules. Those enrolled in vocational training may spend their mornings in programs like CTE Electronics, CTE Plumbing, or CTE Building Maintenance, while others participate in Prison Industry Authority (PIA) work assignments in administration, laundry, or warehouse operations. Academic programming, including Adult Basic Education and High School/GED preparation, often fills afternoon hours, with some individuals also participating in the Peer Literacy Mentor Program or utilizing Library/Law Library Services for legal research and personal study.

Evenings and weekends typically provide opportunities for personal time, religious services, and participation in Arts in Corrections programs or various self-help groups. The facility's medical services, including the Psychiatric Services Unit and Enhanced Outpatient programs, may require some residents to attend scheduled appointments throughout the week. For those in substance abuse treatment, the Integrated Substance Use Disorder Treatment (ISUDT) program structures significant portions of their routine, with CBI-Intensive Outpatient requiring 2 hours daily for five days per week, while CBI-Outpatient involves 2 hours daily for three days weekly.

Family connections remain an important aspect of life at the facility, with visiting procedures available for approved family members and friends. Communication with loved ones typically includes monitored phone calls and correspondence sent to the general mailing address at P.O. Box 290001, Represa, CA 95671. The facility's location in Represa allows for relatively accessible visits for families in the Sacramento region, though all visitation follows standard CDCR security protocols and scheduling requirements that families must navigate to maintain these crucial relationships.