How to Update Your Inmate's Visitors List (Limits, Timing, and Who Requests Changes)
Getting on (or off) an inmate's Visitors List in Texas comes down to three things: the 10-name limit, how often changes are allowed, and who has to request them. Here's how it works—and what to do if you hit a snag.
Each inmate may have a maximum of 10 names on their Visitors List. If the list is already full, someone typically has to be removed before a new person can be added.
How often the Visitors List can be changed depends on the facility type. Institutional inmates can request additions or deletions once every six months. State jail, Intermediate Sanction Facility (ISF), and Substance Abuse Felony Punishment (SAFP) inmates can request changes once every 60 days. Timing matters here. If your loved one last updated their list on a certain date, they'll need to wait until that six-month window (institutional) or 60-day window (state jail/ISF/SAFP) resets before submitting another request.
Time-sensitive: If you were removed from someone's Visitors List and want to appeal, you have 14 days from the date on the unit's written notice of removal.
The inmate is the one who requests changes to their Visitors List - not you. So even if you're trying to get added (or removed), the request has to come from them. The same rules apply: no more than 10 names total, and changes only as often as their facility type allows.
- Ask the inmate to submit the change request - They’re responsible for requesting adds/removals to the Visitors List.
- Give them the details they need - Since the Visitors List is an approved list that includes names, phone numbers, and physical addresses, make sure your loved one has your correct information to provide.
- Follow up with the unit if needed - Processing can take time. If the change still isn’t happening, ask what the next step is. If you were removed from the list, you may need to use the formal appeal process described below.
If you've been removed from an inmate's Visitors List and believe it was wrong, you can appeal. Submit a written appeal to the Director's Review Committee (DRC) at PO Box 99, Huntsville, TX 77342. Act fast - TDCJ requires appeals within 14 days of the date on the unit's written notice of removal.
Related: Since September 1, 2020, only people on the inmate’s approved visitor list or Inmate Telephone List may deposit money to inmates.
- ✓ A written appeal addressed to the Director’s Review Committee (DRC)
- ✓ The date shown on the unit’s written notice of removal (so you can show you’re within the 14-day deadline)
- ✓ The mailing address: PO Box 99, Huntsville, TX 77342
- ✓ Information that clearly identifies you and the inmate (so the DRC can match the appeal to the correct Visitors List)
- ✓ Proof you’re submitting on time (your appeal must be submitted within 14 days of the notice date)
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