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 Sheriff 's Office.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Grant County Sheriff 's Office 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 Sheriff 's Office.

Frequently asked questions about Grant County Sheriff 's Office

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 Sheriff 's Office.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Grant County Sheriff 's Office?

   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 Sheriff 's Office?

   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 Sheriff 's Office. 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 Sheriff 's Office. 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 Sheriff 's Office?

   Mailing address:

   Grant County Sheriff 's Office
   8820 US-61
   Lancaster, WI 53813
   Phone: (608) 723-2157

   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 Sheriff 's Office?

   Visiting hours at Grant County Sheriff 's Office 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 (608) 723-2157 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 Sheriff 's Office?

   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 Sheriff 's Office for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Grant County Sheriff 's Office?

   You can send money to an inmate at Grant County Sheriff 's Office 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 Sheriff 's Office?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Grant County Sheriff 's Office, 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 Sheriff 's Office?

   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 Sheriff 's Office 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 Sheriff 's Office, 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 Lancaster, Wisconsin operates structured visitation programs that connect incarcerated individuals with their families and support networks through scheduled weekend visits. Male inmates receive visitation opportunities based on alphabetical scheduling, with sessions running Saturday mornings and afternoons, while female inmates have designated Saturday and Sunday afternoon time slots. This systematic approach to maintaining family connections typically serves as a foundation for broader rehabilitation efforts within the facility.

Beyond visitation services, the facility may offer educational programming designed to help inmates develop essential life skills and prepare for successful reintegration into the community. These programs often include basic literacy courses, GED preparation, and vocational training opportunities that align with local employment needs. Counseling services are typically available to address substance abuse issues, anger management, and mental health support, recognizing that addressing underlying challenges is crucial for reducing recidivism.

The jail likely provides work release programs and community service opportunities that allow eligible inmates to maintain employment or develop work experience while serving their sentences. Additional support services may include religious programming, library access, and pre-release planning assistance to help individuals secure housing, employment, and necessary documentation upon their return to the community. These comprehensive services work together to support both public safety and successful reentry outcomes for those in the facility's care.

Daily Life & Visitation

Visitation at the Grant County Jail follows a structured schedule based on inmates' last names and gender, with male inmates receiving visits on Saturdays and Sundays across three different time slots, while female inmates have more limited Saturday and Sunday afternoon visiting hours. Families can contact inmates and ask questions about jail operations by calling (608) 723-6372, providing an important communication link during what is often a challenging time for both inmates and their loved ones.

The facility typically operates on a regimented daily schedule that begins early in the morning with wake-up calls and cell inspections. Inmates may participate in work programs, educational opportunities, or recreational activities depending on their classification level and behavior record. Meals are usually served at designated times in common areas or delivered to cells, with the jail likely offering basic commissary services where inmates can purchase additional food items, hygiene products, and writing materials with funds provided by family members.

Throughout the day, inmates often have access to limited television programming, library materials, and may participate in religious services or counseling programs. The structured visitation schedule ensures that families can maintain regular contact while allowing jail staff to manage security effectively. Evening hours typically involve a return to cells for the night, with lights-out occurring at a designated time. The facility's phone and fax system enables families to stay informed about their loved one's status and any changes to policies or procedures that may affect visitation or communication.