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 Comal County Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Comal 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 Comal County Jail.

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

   Mailing address:

   Comal County Jail
   3000 IH 35 S
   New Braunfels, TX 78130
   Phone: (830) 620-3450

   Business hours:

   • Monday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Thursday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Saturday: Closed
   • Sunday: Closed

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

   Visiting hours at Comal 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 (830) 620-3450 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 Comal 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 Comal County Jail for their specific mail policies.

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

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

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

From foundational literacy skills to specialized vocational training, the comprehensive array of opportunities at Comal County Jail reflects a commitment to addressing the diverse needs of individuals in custody. This multifaceted approach recognizes that meaningful rehabilitation requires access to educational advancement, practical skill development, and supportive services that prepare participants for successful community reintegration. The facility’s programming philosophy emphasizes personal growth through structured learning environments and hands-on experiences.

Educational opportunities typically form the cornerstone of the facility’s offerings, with adult basic education services helping individuals develop fundamental academic skills. Special education services may be available to address specific learning needs, ensuring that all participants can access appropriate educational support. Furthermore, vocational training opportunities often provide practical skills development in various trades and industries, giving individuals marketable abilities that can enhance their employment prospects upon release.

Support services extend beyond traditional classroom learning to include work programs that allow individuals to gain real-world experience while contributing to facility operations. Faith-based initiatives may offer spiritual guidance and community support for those seeking this type of assistance. Additionally, the facility often maintains connections with community resources to help individuals access ongoing support services, and agriculture programs may provide opportunities to develop skills in farming and land management while promoting responsibility and work ethic.

Daily Life & Visitation

The sound of meal trays being distributed typically marks the beginning of structured activity periods throughout the facility. Daily routines at the Comal County Jail currently follow established schedules that help maintain order and provide individuals with predictable patterns. Wake-up generally occurs in the early morning hours, followed by hygiene time and breakfast service. The facility continues to operate on a structured timeline that includes designated periods for meals, recreation, and various programming activities.

Housing arrangements vary depending on classification levels and individual circumstances. Most individuals reside in multi-person cells or dormitory-style units that include basic amenities such as beds, storage areas, and shared bathroom facilities. Furthermore, living spaces typically accommodate personal property within established limits, and individuals may access commissary items to supplement basic provisions. Although space may be limited, housing units generally provide adequate lighting and ventilation to meet basic standards.

Recreational opportunities offer structure and help individuals maintain physical fitness during their stay. The facility typically provides access to exercise areas, television viewing, and reading materials during designated hours. Programming schedules may include educational classes, religious services, and other structured activities depending on availability and security considerations. Family connections remain important, as visitation policies generally allow for regular contact with approved visitors, while telephone access and mail correspondence continue to serve as primary communication methods with loved ones on the outside.