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 Chilton County Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Chilton 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 Chilton County Jail.

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

   Mailing address:

   Chilton County Jail
   301 City St
   Clanton, AL 35045
   Phone: (205) 755-1053

   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 Chilton County Jail?

   Visiting hours at Chilton 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 (205) 755-1053 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 Chilton 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 Chilton County Jail for their specific mail policies.

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

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

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

Support flows through carefully structured programs designed to address the diverse needs of the population at Chilton County Jail. The facility’s approach centers on providing comprehensive services that help individuals develop practical skills while maintaining connections to their families and communities. These programs typically emphasize personal growth, responsibility, and preparation for successful community reintegration.

Educational programs form a cornerstone of the facility’s offerings, providing opportunities for the population to advance their academic credentials and develop job-ready skills. Participants may engage in literacy instruction, GED preparation, and basic computer training that helps bridge educational gaps. Additionally, vocational training programs often include practical skills development in areas such as construction, food service, and maintenance, giving individuals marketable abilities they can utilize upon release.

Support services extend beyond traditional education to address the complex challenges many face during incarceration and reentry. Work release programs may allow eligible participants to maintain employment in the community while serving their sentences, helping preserve family financial stability and job continuity. Faith-based programs typically provide spiritual guidance and community support, while specialized veteran services often address the comprehensive needs of those who have served in the military. Reentry preparation programs focus on practical life skills, including job search techniques, housing assistance, and connecting participants with community resources that support long-term success after release.

Daily Life & Visitation

Organizational protocols at Chilton County Jail establish the framework that shapes every aspect of the population’s daily experience. Today’s structured environment consistently revolves around scheduled counts, meal times, and designated periods for various activities. The facility typically operates on a routine that begins early in the morning with wake-up calls and head counts, followed by breakfast service and the day’s programming assignments. Generally, the population moves through their day according to predetermined schedules that supply stability and predictability to institutional life.

Living accommodations within the facility usually consist of housing units designed to manage different classification levels of the population. Residents typically share cells or dormitory-style quarters, with personal property allowances that may include basic hygiene items, approved clothing, and limited personal effects. Additionally, the commissary system allows the population to purchase supplemental items when funds are available through their accounts. While space may be limited, housing areas generally provide basic necessities including bedding, lighting, and climate control appropriate for the region.

The facility often includes recreational opportunities that supply physical activity and structured programming for the population. Exercise periods typically occur in designated areas, while educational or vocational programs may be available depending on current offerings. Visitation policies usually allow family members to maintain contact through scheduled visits, and communication options generally include telephone access and mail services. Work assignments within the facility commonly provide the population with opportunities to contribute to daily operations while developing job skills, creating a sense of purpose within the structured environment.