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 Cortland County Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Cortland 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 Cortland County Jail.

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

   Mailing address:

   Cortland County Jail
   54 Greenbush St
   Cortland, NY 13045
   Phone: (607) 756-4275

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

   Visiting hours at Cortland 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 (607) 756-4275 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 Cortland 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 Cortland County Jail for their specific mail policies.

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

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

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

Personal growth opportunities within Cortland County Correctional Facility center on building essential life skills and fostering positive change. The facility's approach emphasizes structured learning environments that help those incarcerated develop practical abilities for successful community reintegration. These offerings typically focus on addressing individual needs while maintaining facility security and safety protocols.

Educational services form a cornerstone of the facility's development approach. Those incarcerated may access basic literacy programs and GED preparation courses designed to strengthen foundational academic skills. Vocational training opportunities often include practical skill development in areas that align with local employment markets. These educational offerings typically operate within structured schedules that support the facility's overall security framework while providing meaningful learning experiences.

Moreover, therapeutic programs and support services address the comprehensive needs of participants. Mental health support services may furnish counseling and group therapy sessions led by qualified professionals. Life coaching offerings often include decision-making skills development and practical preparation for community reentry. Work release programs typically provide supervised employment opportunities that build work experience and financial responsibility. Housing assistance services may help participants develop transition plans for stable living arrangements upon release. These support offerings work together to create a structured environment focused on positive behavioral change and successful community reintegration.

Daily Life & Visitation

Building connections with family and maintaining relationships often becomes a central focus for those incarcerated at Cortland County Correctional Facility. Today's structured environment consistently provides opportunities for social interaction and community building within the facility's housing units. Those incarcerated typically follow established daily routines that include meals, work assignments, and recreational periods that furnish stability and purpose.

Living accommodations generally consist of shared cells or dormitory-style housing units where residents develop supportive relationships with their peers. Meals are usually served in common dining areas at designated times, creating natural opportunities for conversation and social connection. Moreover, the facility typically offers recreational activities and exercise periods that allow those incarcerated to maintain physical fitness while building camaraderie through sports and group activities.

Structured programming schedules often include educational classes, vocational training, and counseling sessions that help residents prepare for reintegration into their communities. Visitation policies generally allow family members and approved visitors to maintain regular contact through scheduled visits and phone calls. Whereas some facilities may limit communication options, most county facilities typically provide reasonable access to telephone services and correspondence. Work assignments within the facility often furnish valuable skills and structure, with positions that may include kitchen duties, maintenance tasks, or clerical work that contributes to the facility's daily operations.