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 Bennettsville.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about FCI Bennettsville

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 Bennettsville.

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

   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 Bennettsville?

   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 Bennettsville. 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 Bennettsville. 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 Bennettsville?

   Mailing address:

   FCI Bennettsville
   696 Muckerman Rd
   Bennettsville, SC 29512
   Phone: (843) 454-8200

5. What are the visiting hours at FCI Bennettsville?

   Visiting hours at FCI Bennettsville 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 (843) 454-8200 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 Bennettsville?

   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 Bennettsville for their specific mail policies.

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

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

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

   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 Bennettsville 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 Bennettsville, 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 support systems, the population at FCI Bennettsville receives assistance designed to address multiple aspects of personal development and successful community reintegration. The facility's approach typically centers on providing structured opportunities that help individuals build essential life skills while addressing underlying challenges that may have contributed to their incarceration. These programs often emphasize both immediate needs and long-term goals, creating a foundation for positive change that extends beyond the correctional environment.

Educational services form a cornerstone of the supportive framework, offering the population opportunities to advance their academic credentials and develop practical skills. These programs may supply basic literacy instruction, GED preparation, and various educational pathways that help participants strengthen their knowledge base. In addition to this, vocational programs typically provide hands-on training in trades and technical skills that can translate directly into employment opportunities upon release. The combination of academic and vocational offerings creates multiple pathways for personal advancement.

Support services and therapeutic programs address the complex needs many individuals face during their incarceration. Dual diagnosis treatment often includes specialized care for those managing both substance abuse issues and mental health challenges, while sex offender treatment programs may supply targeted therapeutic interventions. Faith-based initiatives typically offer spiritual guidance and community support, complementing decision-making skills programs that help the population develop better judgment and problem-solving abilities. These interconnected services work together to create a comprehensive support network that addresses both immediate concerns and long-term rehabilitation goals.

Daily Life & Visitation

Systematic organization forms the backbone of how the population at FCI Bennettsville experiences their daily environment, with structured schedules that actively guide movement and activities throughout the facility. At present, residents typically follow established routines that begin with early morning counts and progress through designated periods for meals, work assignments, and programming. The facility generally operates on a schedule that balances security requirements with opportunities for personal development and rehabilitation.

Housing units at the facility are organized to accommodate the population in dormitory-style or cell-based arrangements, depending on security classifications and individual circumstances. Residents usually share living spaces and have access to common areas within their housing units. Meals are typically served in centralized dining areas at scheduled times, with the population moving in organized groups to maintain order and security. Personal property is generally limited to approved items, and residents may access commissary services to purchase additional necessities and approved comfort items.

In addition to this structured daily framework, the facility typically offers various recreational activities and exercise opportunities that supply both physical outlets and social interaction for the population. Work assignments are generally available in areas such as food service, maintenance, and facility operations, providing residents with skills and daily structure. Despite this controlled environment, family connections remain important, with visitation policies that usually allow for regular contact with approved visitors and communication options that may include phone calls and correspondence. Programming schedules often include educational opportunities, vocational training, and other rehabilitative activities designed to support successful reintegration into the community.