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 Grant County Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Grant 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 Grant County Jail.

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

   Mailing address:

   Grant County Jail
   35 C St NW
   Ephrata, WA 98823
   Phone: (509) 754-2011

   Business hours:

   • Monday: Open 24 hours
   • Tuesday: Open 24 hours
   • Wednesday: Open 24 hours
   • Thursday: Open 24 hours
   • Friday: Open 24 hours
   • Saturday: Open 24 hours
   • Sunday: Open 24 hours

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

   Visiting hours at Grant 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 (509) 754-2011 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 Grant 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 Grant County Jail for their specific mail policies.

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

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

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Grant 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 Grant 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 Grant 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 Grant 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

The Grant County Jail in Washington, operating from its current location since January 1986, serves the community through a 188-bed facility that focuses on maintaining connections between inmates and their support systems. The facility's commitment to family relationships is evident through its structured visitation program and inmate communication services, including managed phone access and account funding options for families. These connection-based services recognize that maintaining relationships during incarceration often plays a crucial role in successful reintegration.

While specific program details are not extensively outlined on the facility's website, Grant County Jail may offer educational and vocational programming typical of Washington state correctional facilities. These services often include basic literacy classes, GED preparation, and life skills training designed to support inmates' preparation for release. The facility may also provide substance abuse counseling and mental health support services, which are commonly available in county jails throughout the state. Work programs and job readiness training are additional services that may be offered to help inmates develop practical skills.

The jail's operational structure, overseen by Chief Deputy Phillip Coats in the Corrections Division, typically emphasizes both security and rehabilitation. Support services may include religious programming, library access, and recreational activities that promote positive behavior and personal development. The facility's commitment to transparency is demonstrated through its public information services, including inmate lookup capabilities and clear communication channels for families seeking information about their loved ones' status and release dates.

Daily Life & Visitation

The 188-bed facility that has served Grant County since January 1986 operates under structured schedules that govern when inmates can receive visitors and communicate with family members. While specific visitation hours are available through the facility's information system, the jail maintains clear policies about inmate communications, including options for family members who may need to block their phone numbers from receiving calls.

Inmates at the Grant County Jail typically follow regimented daily schedules that may include designated meal times, recreation periods, and programming activities. The facility allows family members to contribute to inmates' accounts, enabling them to purchase commissary items and maintain communication through the jail's phone system. Reading materials such as books and magazines can often be brought in for inmates, though these items typically must meet specific security guidelines and approval processes.

The corrections staff, under the supervision of Chief Deputy Phillip Coats, manages various administrative functions including tracking release dates and coordinating with other counties for commitment transfers. Inmates may participate in video hearings as part of the judicial process, while family members can access information about their loved ones through established communication channels. The facility maintains standard security protocols while providing essential services that help inmates maintain connections with their support systems during their incarceration.