How to send messages, photos, and packages
Formby State Jail offers two types of video visits, each scheduled through a different system. Kiosk-based remote video visits are set up through the vendor's website—you get one session per month, up to 60 minutes. Tablet video visits are scheduled through the TDCJ visitation portal at https://visitation.tdcj.texas.gov/Visitation/. Phone calls, e-messaging, and other tablet features vary by unit, so check the inmate's facility page before making plans. You'll typically need to register phone numbers, create vendor accounts for calls or e-messaging, and follow the vendor's payment instructions for paid services.
Search for a loved one and send messages and photos in minutes.
Get the envelope wrong, and your letter could be delayed—or never arrive. Here's exactly how to address mail to someone at Formby State Jail.
If your loved one is at Formby State Jail, most personal mail goes through TDCJ's Digital Processing Center in Dallas—not directly to the unit. Knowing which address to use keeps your mail from getting delayed or rejected.
Kiosk (remote) video visits must be scheduled through the vendor website. Tablet video visits must be scheduled through the TDCJ visitation portal at https://visitation.tdcj.texas.gov/Visitation/.
Remote (kiosk) video visits are limited to one session per month, for up to 60 minutes.
E-messages and tablet messaging (when available) are handled through approved vendors and typically require an account plus purchasing message credits or stamps through the vendor. Since tablet features and e-messaging can vary by unit, confirm on the inmate’s facility page whether those services are enabled at Formby.
Put the inmate’s full name and TDCJ number on the envelope, along with the unit address. Unit addresses are posted on the agency website.
No. Books, magazines, and other printed publications must be mailed by the publisher, publication supplier, bookstore, or an online bookseller, and they can be reviewed and rejected.
No. Individuals may not mail packages to inmates at Formby State Jail, and items like food, clothing, jewelry, and toiletries aren’t allowed in the mail (books, magazines, and newspapers are the exception).
Yes—Formby State Jail allows longer visits in certain situations, but it's not automatic. Here's how extended and split visits work, plus what you can do to request them.
Getting approved to visit someone at Formby State Jail comes down to two things: being on the inmate's Visitors List and bringing the right ID. Here's how the list works, what you'll need, and how to confirm you're approved before making the trip.
Formby's
