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Send Photos & Mail at California State Prison, Solano

How to send messages, photos, and packages

Overview

California is transitioning to one statewide vendor for inmate phone calls, video visits, and electronic messaging. Services and platforms at California State Prison, Solano may change during the rollout. To avoid delays, create an account on the department communications platform (web or mobile) and register for video services so you're ready when features go live. Planning to do prepaid video visits? Load money using the app's prepaid feature before booking. You may also see a "claim account" option in the CDCR/GTL visitor portal with tools to reserve visit dates. Before buying prepaid time or scheduling, confirm which system CSP Solano is currently using.

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Quick Facts

  • California is switching to a statewide provider for inmate phone calls, video visits, and electronic messaging.
  • Create an account on the department communications platform (web or mobile) before video or messaging services are available.
  • For prepaid video visits you typically must add funds through the app’s prepaid feature (register and load an account before booking paid visits).
  • The CDCR/GTL visitor portal provides a 'claim account' option and tools to reserve visit date/time and avoid lines when scheduling.

Send Photos & Mail Guides

Why you can't mail quarterly packages directly to someone at CSP Solano — and what to do instead

Here's the part that surprises most people: you can't mail a quarterly package to someone at California State Prison, Solano yourself. CDCR doesn't allow family or friends to send these packages directly. Instead, quarterly packages must be purchased through private vendors that CDCR has authorized and approved. Why the restriction? It's about security — the vendor-only system cuts down on contraband and reduces the time staff spend searching packages from the public.

Common Questions

How do I set up an account to video visit an inmate at California State Prison, Solano?

Create an account on the department communications platform (web or mobile) and register for video so you're ready when services go active. If available, use the CDCR/GTL visitor portal "claim account" option, then schedule through the portal. Confirm which platform CSP Solano currently supports before scheduling or buying prepaid services.

Will phone and video messaging services change at CSP Solano?

Yes. California is transitioning to a statewide communications provider, so the vendor and tools for phone, video, and messaging can change. During the rollout, some institutions stay on older platforms. Check what CSP Solano is using before scheduling or purchasing.

Do I need to add money before scheduling a video visit?

For prepaid video visits, you'll generally need to register and add funds through the app's prepaid feature before booking. Standard audio calls from institution phones or tablets may remain free under the new system.

Other Guides for California State Prison, Solano

Phone & Messaging

How to Contact an Inmate at Facility

The easiest way to set up an in-person visit is through the GTL/CDCR visit portal. Pick your date, time, and location, then get instant confirmation.

Sending Money

How to Send Money to Facility

Sending money to someone in custody depends on the facility's approved system. For this facility, we've confirmed access to the GTL visitor portal, where you can create an account or log in.

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