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 Folsom State Prison.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Folsom State Prison 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 Folsom State Prison.

Frequently asked questions about Folsom State Prison

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 Folsom State Prison.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Folsom State Prison?

   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 Folsom State Prison?

   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 Folsom State Prison. 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 Folsom State Prison. 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 Folsom State Prison?

   Mailing address:

   Folsom State Prison
   300 Prison Rd
   Represa, CA 95671
   Phone: (916) 985-2561

5. What are the visiting hours at Folsom State Prison?

   Visiting hours at Folsom State Prison 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 (916) 985-2561 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 Folsom State Prison?

   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 Folsom State Prison for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Folsom State Prison?

   You can send money to an inmate at Folsom State Prison 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 Folsom State Prison?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Folsom State Prison, 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 Folsom State Prison?

   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 Folsom State Prison 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 Folsom State Prison, 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

The Prison Industry Authority (PIA) operations at Folsom State Prison encompass a diverse range of manufacturing and service enterprises, including a license plate factory, sign shop, furniture production, metal fabrication, print shop, and digital mapping services. These programs work alongside vocational training opportunities in masonry, building maintenance, office services, welding that meets AWS standards, and auto mechanics with ASE certification pathways. The facility's modular building enterprise and pre-apprenticeship programs provide residents with hands-on experience in construction trades while developing marketable skills for post-release employment.

Educational programming includes foundational academic services such as Adult Basic Education (ABE), General Education Development (GED) preparation, Adult High School completion, and English as a Second Language instruction. The Correctional Learning Network (CLN) may supplement traditional classroom learning with technology-based educational resources. College programs and correspondence courses typically expand higher education access for eligible residents, while the library serves as a central resource for both recreational reading and educational support materials.

Specialized reintegration services include the Alpha Re-Entry Program, which focuses on life skills development, parenting education, and substance abuse recovery preparation to help residents successfully transition back to their families and communities. The California New Start Prison to Employment Transition Program offers a comprehensive 70-hour, four-week curriculum covering transition planning, job search techniques, resume writing, interview preparation, and financial literacy. Additional support services may include self-help groups such as AA/NA, community work crews, youth diversion programs, fitness and health initiatives, military veterans' groups, and various counseling and therapeutic programs designed to address individual rehabilitation needs.

Daily Life & Visitation

Behind the walls at 300 Prison Road in Represa, California, incarcerated individuals at Folsom State Prison typically begin their days with structured routines that center around the facility's extensive programming opportunities. The morning hours often involve movement to various work assignments, including the Prison Industry Authority operations where inmates may report to the License Plate Factory, Sign Shop, Furniture Shop, or Metal Fabrication units. Those enrolled in vocational programs typically attend classes in masonry, building maintenance, welding, or auto mechanics, while others may head to academic sessions for Adult Basic Education, GED preparation, or English as a Second Language instruction.

Throughout the week, inmates may participate in the facility's diverse programming offerings, which include self-help groups, parenting classes, and the Alpha Re-Entry Program that focuses on life skills development and preparation for community reintegration. The Correctional Learning Network and various correspondence courses provide additional educational opportunities, while the fitness and library programs offer recreational and personal development options. For those nearing release, the California New Start Prison to Employment Transition Program provides a comprehensive 70-hour curriculum covering job search techniques, resume writing, and financial literacy.

Family connections remain an important aspect of life at the facility, with visitors able to maintain contact through the established visitation program and mail correspondence sent to P.O. Box 715071, Represa, CA 95671. The facility typically maintains structured meal times, recreational periods, and evening routines that may include additional programming or personal time in housing units. Support services and resources are available to help families navigate the visitation process and understand communication policies, helping to maintain these crucial relationships during incarceration.