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 Terre Haute.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about FCI Terre Haute

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 Terre Haute.

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

   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 Terre Haute?

   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 Terre Haute. 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 Terre Haute. 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 Terre Haute?

   Mailing address:

   FCI Terre Haute
   4200 Bureau Rd N
   Terre Haute, IN 47802
   Phone: (812) 238-1531

5. What are the visiting hours at FCI Terre Haute?

   Visiting hours at FCI Terre Haute 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 (812) 238-1531 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 Terre Haute?

   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 Terre Haute for their specific mail policies.

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

   You can send money to an inmate at FCI Terre Haute 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 Terre Haute?

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

   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 Terre Haute 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 Terre Haute, 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 growth and rehabilitation form the cornerstone of service delivery at FCI Terre Haute, where inmates have access to structured opportunities designed to build essential life skills and prepare them for successful reintegration. The facility's approach typically emphasizes practical skill development alongside personal transformation, recognizing that meaningful change requires both educational advancement and emotional support. Through carefully designed services, participants may engage in activities that address various aspects of personal development, from basic literacy to advanced vocational certification.

Educational services often include GED preparation and adult basic education classes, providing inmates with foundational academic skills necessary for future employment and personal growth. These programs may offer flexible scheduling to accommodate different learning levels and backgrounds. Also, vocational training services typically focus on marketable trades such as construction, food service, and maintenance skills that align with local employment opportunities. Distance learning options may provide access to college-level coursework, allowing motivated participants to pursue higher education goals while incarcerated.

Support services play a crucial role in addressing the broader needs of the inmate population through comprehensive programming. Faith-based services often include chaplaincy programs, religious study groups, and spiritual counseling that may help participants develop coping strategies and moral frameworks for decision-making. Also, wellness programs typically encompass physical fitness activities, nutrition education, and mental health resources designed to promote overall well-being. Veteran services may provide specialized support for former military personnel, addressing unique challenges they face during incarceration and reentry planning.

Daily Life & Visitation

Behind the secure perimeter of FCI Terre Haute, inmates navigate a highly structured environment where concrete housing units and controlled movement define their physical world. At present, the facility operates with a regimented schedule that actively guides inmates through their daily activities. Wake-up calls typically occur in the early morning hours, followed by count procedures and meal service. The routine generally includes work assignments, educational programming, and recreational periods. However, all movement between areas requires proper authorization and adherence to established security protocols.

Living accommodations typically consist of shared cells or dormitory-style housing units, depending on security classification and availability. Inmates usually share their living space with one or more cellmates, creating an environment that requires significant adaptation and cooperation. Personal property allowances are generally limited to essential items and approved purchases from the commissary. Also, inmates must maintain their living areas according to facility standards, with regular inspections ensuring compliance with cleanliness and organization requirements.

Structured programming schedules provide inmates with opportunities to participate in educational classes, vocational training, and recreational activities during designated hours. Work assignments may include food service, maintenance, or facility operations, offering inmates a sense of purpose and routine. However, visitation policies typically allow for scheduled contact with approved family members and friends, while telephone and correspondence privileges help maintain important connections to the outside world. These programs and communication options often serve as crucial elements in helping inmates adapt to their environment while preparing for eventual reintegration into their communities.