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 FCI Bastrop.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at FCI Bastrop 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 FCI Bastrop.

Frequently asked questions about FCI Bastrop

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 FCI Bastrop.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to FCI Bastrop?

   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 FCI Bastrop?

   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 FCI Bastrop. 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 FCI Bastrop. 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 FCI Bastrop?

   Mailing address:

   FCI Bastrop
   1341 State Hwy 95
   Bastrop, TX 78602
   Phone: (512) 321-3903

   Business hours:

   • Monday: Open 24 hours
   • Tuesday: Open 24 hours
   • Wednesday: Open 24 hours
   • Thursday: Open 24 hours
   • Friday: Open 24 hours
   • Saturday: Open 24 hours
   • Sunday: Open 24 hours

5. What are the visiting hours at FCI Bastrop?

   Visiting hours at FCI Bastrop 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 (512) 321-3903 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 FCI Bastrop?

   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 FCI Bastrop for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at FCI Bastrop?

   You can send money to an inmate at FCI Bastrop 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 FCI Bastrop?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At FCI Bastrop, 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 FCI Bastrop?

   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 FCI Bastrop 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 FCI Bastrop, 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

Through comprehensive programming designed to address individual needs, the population at FCI Bastrop receives targeted support that builds essential life skills and prepares them for successful community reintegration. The facility typically emphasizes a holistic approach to rehabilitation, recognizing that meaningful change occurs when participants have access to diverse opportunities for personal growth and development. These programs often focus on addressing underlying issues while simultaneously building practical skills that enhance employment prospects and strengthen family connections.

Educational and vocational programs form the foundation of skill-building opportunities available to the population. Vocational training initiatives may supply hands-on experience in various trades, helping participants develop marketable skills for post-release employment. Also available are commercial driving (CDL) programs that often provide certification opportunities in transportation-related fields. Work programs typically allow the population to gain practical experience while contributing to facility operations, building both technical abilities and workplace readiness skills.

Support services and specialized programs address the broader needs of successful reintegration into the community. Faith-based initiatives may offer spiritual guidance and community connection for those seeking this type of support. Also important are transitional planning services that typically help participants prepare for release by addressing housing, employment, and family reunification concerns. These comprehensive support programs often work together to create a network of resources that assists the population in building the foundation necessary for long-term success and positive community involvement.

Daily Life & Visitation

Clear organizational frameworks shape every aspect of the experience for the population at FCI Bastrop, with structured schedules that consistently guide daily activities from morning count to evening lockdown. Today's routine typically begins with early morning accountability procedures, followed by work assignments that may include food service, maintenance, or facility operations. The population generally moves through scheduled meal periods, with dining arrangements organized by housing unit to maintain orderly flow throughout the facility.

Housing units at FCI Bastrop typically accommodate the population in dormitory-style or cell configurations, depending on security classification and available space. Each resident usually receives basic furnishings and limited personal property storage, with commissary access providing additional items for daily needs. Also, living areas often include common spaces where the population can gather during designated recreation periods, though movement between units generally requires staff approval.

Structured programming schedules supply educational opportunities, vocational training, and recreational activities that help organize free time throughout the week. However, participation in these programs typically depends on security level, behavior record, and available capacity. Family connections remain important through scheduled visitation periods and telephone access, with communication policies generally allowing regular contact while maintaining facility security protocols. Work assignments also provide structure, as the population may participate in various facility operations that support daily operations and offer skill development opportunities.