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 Fresno County Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Fresno County Jail 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 Fresno County Jail.

Frequently asked questions about Fresno County Jail

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 Fresno County Jail.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Fresno County Jail?

   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 Fresno County Jail?

   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 Fresno County Jail. 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 Fresno County Jail. 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 Fresno County Jail?

   Mailing address:

   Fresno County Jail
   1225 M St
   Fresno, CA 93721
   Phone: (559) 600-8600

   Business hours:

   • Monday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM
   • Tuesday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM
   • Wednesday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM
   • Thursday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM
   • Friday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM
   • Saturday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM
   • Sunday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM

5. What are the visiting hours at Fresno County Jail?

   Visiting hours at Fresno County Jail 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 (559) 600-8600 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 Fresno County Jail?

   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 Fresno County Jail for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Fresno County Jail?

   You can send money to an inmate at Fresno County Jail 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 Fresno County Jail?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Fresno County Jail, 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 Fresno County Jail?

   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 Fresno County Jail 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 Fresno County Jail, 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

Rehabilitation initiatives at Fresno County Jail typically focus on building practical skills and addressing the root causes of criminal behavior. The facility’s approach emphasizes personal development through structured learning opportunities. Residents may participate in decision-making skills workshops that help them develop better judgment and problem-solving abilities for successful reintegration.

Educational initiatives often include basic literacy programs and high school equivalency preparation. These academic opportunities provide residents with foundational knowledge needed for employment and further education. Additionally, vocational training may deliver hands-on experience in various trades and technical skills. Forklift operation certification programs typically prepare residents for warehouse and logistics careers upon release.

Support services encompass a range of therapeutic and practical initiatives designed to address underlying issues. Rehabilitation programs may focus on substance abuse treatment and behavioral modification. The facility often includes recycling programs that teach environmental responsibility while providing work experience. Laundry services typically offer residents job training in commercial cleaning operations. These combined initiatives help residents develop both practical work skills and the personal tools necessary for making positive life changes after their release.

Daily Life & Visitation

At present, a carefully structured schedule actively guides each day, with residents following established routines that typically begin before dawn and continue through evening hours. Wake-up calls generally occur in the early morning, followed by scheduled meal times, programming sessions, and designated periods for personal activities. This consistent framework helps residents understand expectations and provides predictable patterns that may reduce uncertainty during their stay.

Housing arrangements typically place residents in dormitory-style units or individual cells, depending on classification levels and available space. Living areas generally include basic furnishings such as beds, storage areas, and shared bathroom facilities. Additionally, residents usually have access to common areas where they may interact with others during designated times. Personal property is often limited to essential items, though residents typically can purchase approved items through the commissary system when funds are available.

Programming schedules often deliver educational opportunities, vocational training, and counseling services throughout the week. While recreational activities may include outdoor exercise periods and indoor fitness options, availability generally depends on facility capacity and security considerations. Family connections remain important, with visitation typically occurring on scheduled days and phone calls usually permitted during specific hours. Work assignments within the facility may include kitchen duties, cleaning responsibilities, or maintenance tasks, which often provide residents with structure and the opportunity to contribute to daily operations.