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 Cumberland.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about FCI Cumberland

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 Cumberland.

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

   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 Cumberland?

   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 Cumberland. 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 Cumberland. 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 Cumberland?

   Mailing address:

   FCI Cumberland
   14601 Burbridge Rd SE
   Cumberland, MD 21502
   Phone: (301) 784-1000

   Business hours:

   • Monday: Closed
   • Tuesday: Closed
   • Wednesday: Closed
   • Thursday: Closed
   • Friday: 4:00 – 8:00 PM
   • Saturday: 8:30 AM – 3:30 PM
   • Sunday: 8:30 AM – 3:30 PM

5. What are the visiting hours at FCI Cumberland?

   Visiting hours at FCI Cumberland 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 (301) 784-1000 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 Cumberland?

   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 Cumberland for their specific mail policies.

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

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

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

   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 Cumberland 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 Cumberland, 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 development opportunities flourish within FCI Cumberland's structured environment, where those incarcerated can access meaningful pathways toward skill-building and self-improvement. The facility typically emphasizes security and safety while creating space for growth-oriented offerings that prepare individuals for successful community reintegration. These carefully supervised programs often focus on building practical skills and addressing personal challenges that may have contributed to past difficulties.

Educational advancement forms a cornerstone of available opportunities, with offerings that may include adult basic education classes and literacy improvement programs. Those incarcerated can typically pursue their GED certification through structured coursework designed to accommodate various learning levels. Furthermore, vocational training opportunities often include hands-on instruction in trades such as carpentry, electrical work, or food service preparation, providing marketable skills that support future employment prospects.

Therapeutic services play a vital role in supporting personal transformation and addressing underlying issues. These offerings may furnish substance abuse counseling, anger management programs, and mental health support designed to help participants develop healthier coping strategies. Community service opportunities often allow those incarcerated to contribute meaningfully while building work experience, and job placement assistance typically helps individuals prepare for the transition back to their communities through resume building and interview preparation skills.

Daily Life & Visitation

Maintaining connections with family and friends becomes a central focus for those incarcerated at this federal facility. Community bonds now develop through shared meals, recreational activities, and structured programming that brings residents together regularly. The facility's environment encourages social interaction while providing multiple avenues for staying connected with loved ones on the outside.

Housing units typically accommodate residents in dormitory-style settings or smaller rooms, depending on security classification and availability. Those incarcerated generally share common areas where they can interact during designated times throughout the day. Meals are served in communal dining halls, furnishing opportunities for conversation and relationship-building among residents. Personal belongings may be stored in designated areas, and commissary access allows individuals to purchase additional items for comfort and communication needs.

Furthermore, structured programming schedules include educational classes, vocational training, and recreational periods that help maintain daily routines. Work assignments within the facility often involve food service, maintenance, or administrative support roles that provide structure and purpose. Although security procedures govern movement throughout the facility, visitation programs typically allow face-to-face contact with family members during scheduled periods. Communication options usually include monitored phone calls and correspondence, helping those incarcerated maintain vital connections with their support networks while serving their sentences.