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 Eau Claire County Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Eau Claire 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 Eau Claire County Jail.

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

   Mailing address:

   Eau Claire County Jail
   710 2nd Ave
   Eau Claire, WI 54703
   Phone: (715) 839-4702

5. What are the visiting hours at Eau Claire County Jail?

   Visiting hours at Eau Claire 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 (715) 839-4702 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 Eau Claire 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 Eau Claire County Jail for their specific mail policies.

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

   You can send money to an inmate at Eau Claire 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 Eau Claire County Jail?

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

Cognitive interventions and therapeutic support form the foundation of rehabilitation efforts at Eau Claire County Jail, where residents may participate in structured initiatives designed to address underlying behavioral patterns and decision-making processes. These evidence-based approaches typically focus on helping individuals develop critical thinking skills and emotional regulation techniques. The facility often emphasizes personal accountability while providing residents with practical tools they can apply both during incarceration and upon reentry into the community.

Educational services represent a cornerstone of the jail's programming structure, with residents having access to literacy development, GED preparation, and basic academic skill building. Vocational programs complement these educational opportunities by offering hands-on training in practical trades such as plumbing, which may provide residents with marketable skills for future employment. These initiatives typically operate through structured learning environments where participants can develop both technical competencies and workplace readiness skills that support successful community reintegration.

Additionally, the facility may deliver creative and therapeutic programming through arts and crafts initiatives that serve multiple rehabilitative purposes. These activities often provide residents with constructive outlets for self-expression while developing fine motor skills and fostering a sense of accomplishment. The combination of cognitive interventions with creative programming typically creates a comprehensive approach to addressing the diverse needs of the jail population, supporting both immediate behavioral goals and longer-term rehabilitation objectives.

Daily Life & Visitation

Structured schedules form the backbone of institutional life, delivering predictability that many residents find reassuring during an uncertain time. At present, the facility operates on a regimented daily framework that typically begins with early morning counts and continues through scheduled meals, programming, and evening lockdown procedures. Residents actively participate in this routine, which generally includes designated times for meals, recreation, and various activities throughout the day.

Housing arrangements at the facility typically consist of dormitory-style units or individual cells, depending on classification levels and available space. Residents usually share common areas for dining and recreation, while personal belongings are generally limited to essential items and approved commissary purchases. Additionally, meal service follows a structured schedule with residents rotating through the dining area in designated groups. Living spaces are maintained according to facility standards, with residents often responsible for keeping their assigned areas clean and orderly.

Programming opportunities may include educational classes, substance abuse counseling, and work assignments that help maintain facility operations. While recreational activities typically involve scheduled time in common areas or outdoor spaces when available, residents also have access to library services and television viewing during designated hours. Family connections remain important through scheduled visitation periods and phone privileges, which generally operate within established timeframes and security protocols. Additionally, commissary services usually allow residents to purchase approved personal items and snacks, providing some degree of personal choice within the structured environment.