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 Texarkana.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Federal Correctional Institution Texarkana

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 Texarkana.

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

   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 Texarkana?

   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 Texarkana. 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 Texarkana. 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 Texarkana?

   Mailing address:

   Federal Correctional Institution Texarkana
   4001 Leopard Dr
   Texarkana, TX 75501
   Phone: (903) 838-4587

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

   Visiting hours at Federal Correctional Institution Texarkana 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 (903) 838-4587 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 Texarkana?

   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 Texarkana for their specific mail policies.

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

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

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

   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 Texarkana 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 Texarkana, 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

Recognizing that meaningful change requires multiple pathways for growth, FCI Texarkana typically provides a comprehensive array of opportunities designed to address diverse individual needs and goals. The facility's approach emphasizes skill development, personal healing, and practical preparation for successful community reintegration. These opportunities often work together to create a supportive environment where individuals can address various aspects of their lives while building essential capabilities.

Educational and vocational training opportunities may form a cornerstone of the facility's offerings. Vocational training programs typically focus on developing marketable skills that align with regional employment demands. Furthermore, work programs often provide hands-on experience in areas such as janitorial services and barbering/cosmetology, allowing individuals to gain practical skills while contributing to facility operations. These opportunities may help participants develop both technical abilities and workplace readiness skills.

Therapeutic and support services typically complement the educational components through targeted interventions. Grief counseling may be available to help individuals process loss and trauma, providing essential emotional support during their time at the facility. Furthermore, faith-based initiatives often offer spiritual guidance and community connection for those seeking this type of support. These therapeutic opportunities typically work alongside other programming to address the personal challenges that many individuals face, creating a more holistic approach to rehabilitation and personal development.

Daily Life & Visitation

The sound of morning announcements now signals the start of another structured day, as individuals at FCI Texarkana regularly follow established routines that provide both consistency and purpose. Daily schedules typically include count times, meal periods, work assignments, and recreational activities that help maintain order within the facility. Individuals generally wake early for morning count, followed by breakfast service and the beginning of work details or programming activities that continue throughout the day.

Living accommodations typically consist of housing units where individuals share rooms or dormitory-style arrangements, depending on their classification level and available space. Personal property allowances usually include basic clothing, hygiene items, and limited personal effects that can be stored in designated areas. The commissary offers additional items for purchase, allowing individuals to supplement their basic provisions with snacks, toiletries, and writing materials when funds are available through their accounts.

Furthermore, recreational opportunities often include access to exercise facilities, outdoor recreation areas, and organized sports activities that promote physical fitness and social interaction. Although visitation schedules may vary, families typically can visit during designated hours and days, while phone calls and written correspondence provide regular communication options. Work assignments generally range from food service and maintenance duties to administrative support roles, offering individuals the chance to develop skills while contributing to facility operations through structured programming schedules.