Penmate Inmate Support Guides
Visitation

Why Your CRC Visitor Application Might Get Denied: Common Mistakes to Avoid

A denied visitor application costs you time you don't have—especially during reception. Use the checklist below to avoid the mistakes that most often derail applications at the Correctional Reception Center (CRC).

• 3 min read • dam.assets.ohio.gov
Why Your CRC Visitor Application Might Get Denied: Common Mistakes to Avoid

Leaving any question blank is one of the fastest ways to get disapproved. Even if a question seems irrelevant or you're unsure how to answer, don't skip it. Review every line before submitting so nothing gets missed.

Warning: Any falsification on the visitor application will result in disapproval. If you don’t know an exact detail, take the time to confirm it rather than guessing.

  • ✓ Complete the Visiting Application (DRC2096)
  • ✓ Sign the Declaration of Understanding (DRC2554)
  • ✓ Sign the General Visiting Instructions (DRC2274)

Before submitting, do a slow read-through. Make sure every question is answered fully and truthfully - no blanks, no "close enough" answers. Confirm you've included everything CRC/DRC requires: the DRC2096 application plus signed copies of the DRC2554 Declaration of Understanding and the DRC2274 General Visiting Instructions. I recommend keeping a copy of what you submit for your own records. That way, you can reference your answers if staff have follow-up questions.

CRC/DRC requires a legible copy of your photo ID with your application. If the copy is missing, too dark, cut off, or blurry, your application can stall or be disapproved. Treat the ID copy as part of the application - not an optional add-on.

  • ✓ Copy the entire ID (don’t crop off the name, photo, or edges)
  • ✓ Make sure the image is readable (no blur, shadows, or glare)
  • ✓ Check that the photo and identifying details are clear before you submit

Currently on probation or parole? You must include a permission letter from your probation/parole officer granting you permission to visit. Without that letter, CRC/DRC won't approve your application.

  1. Contact your officer early - don’t wait until you’re ready to mail or submit your application.
  2. Request written permission to visit - the requirement is a letter granting permission.
  3. Include the letter with your application - submit it together so your application isn’t held up for missing paperwork.

Even a perfectly filled-out application can be denied based on background checks. Staff conduct electronic searches of your visitor history, including DOTS Portal screens like NAMS1, SCOPE, VNAMS, and VADDS. They review past and current restrictions and visitation histories. They may also check records tied to the incarcerated person - like whether your name appears in case paperwork.

Note: DOTS and related record checks can surface past or current visitation restrictions, prior visitation history involving other incarcerated people, and possible co-defendant or victim status - all of which can affect approval.

Some "denials" are really timing issues. Reception incarcerated persons at CRC can't receive visits during their first eight days, even if you're ready to go. After that initial period, visits are still limited: the incarcerated person may have two visiting sessions per calendar month from each person on their approved list. Plan your trips around that cap.

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