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 Ellis County Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Ellis 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 Ellis County Jail.

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

   Mailing address:

   Ellis County Jail
   300 S Jackson St
   Waxahachie, TX 75165
   Phone: (972) 825-4931

   Business hours:

   • Monday: Closed
   • Tuesday: 2:00 AM – 10:00 PM
   • Wednesday: 2:00 AM – 10:00 PM
   • Thursday: 2:00 AM – 10:00 PM
   • Friday: 2:00 AM – 10:00 PM
   • Saturday: 2:00 AM – 10:00 PM
   • Sunday: Closed

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

   Visiting hours at Ellis 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 (972) 825-4931 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 Ellis 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 Ellis County Jail for their specific mail policies.

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

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

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

The Ellis County Sheriff's Office has implemented a modernized correspondence system designed to enhance security while maintaining vital connections between inmates and their families. Through their partnership with JailATM.com, the facility processes inmate mail electronically, allowing individuals to receive messages, documents, and photos while preventing contraband from entering the facility. This digital mail system typically processes standard correspondence within established timeframes, though legal, medical, and published materials continue to follow traditional mail procedures.

Beyond correspondence services, Ellis County Jail may offer various educational and rehabilitative programs common to Texas correctional facilities. These could include basic literacy classes, GED preparation programs, and life skills workshops that help individuals prepare for successful reintegration into the community. The facility often provides access to religious services and counseling programs that address substance abuse, anger management, and other behavioral concerns. Vocational training opportunities may be available to help inmates develop job skills in areas such as food service, maintenance, or other practical trades.

Support services at the facility typically include medical and mental health care, with staff working to address both immediate health needs and ongoing treatment requirements. The jail may also facilitate visitation programs that allow families to maintain important relationships during incarceration, though these services often operate under specific scheduling and security protocols. Additionally, inmates may have access to legal resources and assistance in preparing for court proceedings, ensuring they can effectively participate in their legal cases while in custody.

Daily Life & Visitation

Communication with loved ones follows strict protocols at Ellis County Jail, with a new digital mail processing system designed to enhance security while maintaining family connections. All personal correspondence must be sent through JailATM.com's processing facility in Fort Worth, where letters are scanned and delivered electronically to inmates before the physical mail is destroyed. This system typically processes standard mail within several days, though inmates may still receive legal correspondence, medical mail, and publications directly at the facility.

The facility's communication policies reflect the structured nature of daily operations, where inmates typically follow scheduled routines for meals, recreation, and programming activities. Mail delivery often occurs during designated times, and inmates may receive up to five pages of correspondence per mailing, along with one photograph. The digital processing system means that inmates usually view their mail on tablets or kiosks, which may be available during specific hours throughout the day.

Visitation and phone privileges generally complement the mail system as part of the facility's approach to maintaining family relationships while ensuring security. Inmates often have access to scheduled phone calls and may participate in video visitation programs, though specific schedules and availability can vary. The facility typically provides basic necessities and may offer commissary services where inmates can purchase additional items, with funds often deposited by family members through approved channels.