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 Federal Correctional Institution Lompoc.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Federal Correctional Institution Lompoc 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 Federal Correctional Institution Lompoc.

Frequently asked questions about Federal Correctional Institution Lompoc

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 Federal Correctional Institution Lompoc.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Federal Correctional Institution Lompoc?

   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 Federal Correctional Institution Lompoc?

   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 Federal Correctional Institution Lompoc. 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 Federal Correctional Institution Lompoc. 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 Federal Correctional Institution Lompoc?

   Mailing address:

   Federal Correctional Institution Lompoc
   3600 Guard Rd
   Lompoc, CA 93436
   Phone: (805) 736-4154

   Business hours:

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

5. What are the visiting hours at Federal Correctional Institution Lompoc?

   Visiting hours at Federal Correctional Institution Lompoc 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 (805) 736-4154 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 Federal Correctional Institution Lompoc?

   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 Federal Correctional Institution Lompoc for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Federal Correctional Institution Lompoc?

   You can send money to an inmate at Federal Correctional Institution Lompoc 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 Federal Correctional Institution Lompoc?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Federal Correctional Institution Lompoc, 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 Federal Correctional Institution Lompoc?

   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 Federal Correctional Institution Lompoc 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 Federal Correctional Institution Lompoc, 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

From basic literacy courses to advanced vocational certifications, the breadth of developmental opportunities at FCI Lompoc reflects a comprehensive approach to individual growth and preparation for successful community reintegration. The facility typically emphasizes skill-building across multiple domains, recognizing that meaningful change often requires addressing educational gaps, developing marketable job skills, and building personal resilience through structured programming.

Educational initiatives may include adult basic education classes, GED preparation, and post-secondary coursework that allows individuals to work toward college credits. Also, vocational training opportunities often encompass trades such as construction, automotive repair, and electronics, providing hands-on experience with industry-standard equipment. Culinary arts programming typically offers comprehensive training in food service operations, from basic cooking techniques to large-scale meal preparation and kitchen management skills that translate directly to employment opportunities upon release.

Rehabilitation programs may focus on substance abuse treatment, cognitive-behavioral interventions, and life skills development through structured group sessions and individual counseling. Also, animal care programs often provide individuals with opportunities to develop responsibility and empathy while learning veterinary assistance skills and animal husbandry techniques. These support services typically work in conjunction with educational and vocational offerings to create a holistic approach to personal development that addresses both practical skills and underlying behavioral patterns.

Daily Life & Visitation

The sound of morning count echoes through housing units as individuals at FCI Lompoc begin another structured day in the federal correctional system. At present, daily routines actively revolve around established schedules that typically include work assignments, educational programming, and recreational periods. The facility generally operates on a regimented timeline where individuals move between various activities throughout the day, from dining hall meals to job assignments that may include kitchen work, maintenance duties, or facility operations.

Living accommodations typically consist of shared cells or dormitory-style housing units, depending on security classification and availability. Individuals usually share living spaces with one or more roommates, with personal property limited to approved items that can be stored in designated areas. The dining experience generally involves scheduled meal times in a common dining hall, where individuals receive meals prepared by facility staff and fellow residents working in food service positions. However, the commissary also offers opportunities to purchase additional food items and personal care products to supplement basic provisions.

Also available are various recreational and exercise opportunities that offer structure and physical activity options during designated periods. Programming schedules typically include educational classes, vocational training, and recreational activities that may encompass sports, fitness programs, and organized events. Family connections remain important through visitation policies that generally allow approved visitors during specific hours and days, while communication options usually include monitored phone calls and correspondence. However, all contact with the outside world operates within established security protocols designed to maintain facility safety and order.