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 Hamilton County Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Hamilton 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 Hamilton County Jail.

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

   Mailing address:

   Hamilton County Jail
   900 Sycamore St
   Cincinnati, OH 45202
   Phone: (513) 946-6600

   Business hours:

   • Monday: 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM
   • Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM
   • Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM
   • Thursday: 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM
   • Friday: 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM
   • Saturday: Closed
   • Sunday: Closed

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

   Visiting hours at Hamilton 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 (513) 946-6600 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 Hamilton 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 Hamilton County Jail for their specific mail policies.

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

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

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Hamilton 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 Hamilton 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 Hamilton 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 Hamilton 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 Hamilton County Justice Center Youth Center operates a structured visitation program designed to maintain family connections for incarcerated youth. The facility provides both in-person and phone visit opportunities, with in-person visits scheduled throughout the week across multiple housing units, typically requiring visitors to arrive 15-30 minutes before their scheduled time slot. Phone visits are available several days per week, ensuring youth can maintain regular contact with their support systems during their stay.

Beyond visitation services, the facility likely offers educational programming to help youth continue their academic progress while incarcerated. Many Ohio juvenile facilities typically provide GED preparation classes, basic literacy programs, and may include vocational training opportunities to help prepare youth for successful reintegration into their communities. The center may also offer counseling services, including individual and group therapy sessions, substance abuse programming, and behavioral intervention programs designed to address the underlying issues that contributed to their involvement in the justice system.

Additional support services at the Hamilton County Justice Center Youth Center may include mental health counseling, life skills training, and recreational activities to promote positive youth development. The facility often emphasizes rehabilitation and preparation for community reentry, which may involve case management services to connect youth with community resources, educational opportunities, and support systems upon release. These comprehensive programming efforts typically aim to reduce recidivism and help youth develop the skills necessary for successful community reintegration.

Daily Life & Visitation

The Hamilton County Justice Center Youth Center operates on a structured visitation schedule that divides residents into specific housing units, with in-person visits occurring Monday through Friday from 2:00PM to 3:15PM across different unit groupings. Residents in Units 201, 202, and 203 typically have visits on alternating days, while those in Units 301, 302, and 303 follow a separate rotation. Family members and approved visitors must arrive at least 15 minutes before their scheduled visit time to complete the check-in process. Phone visits are also available, with Units 201-203 having access on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday starting at 4:15PM, while Units 301-303 can make calls on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday, with Saturday phone time beginning earlier at 11:00AM.

Daily routines at the facility typically follow a structured schedule designed to provide stability and support for youth residents. The day often begins with wake-up calls and personal hygiene time, followed by breakfast and room inspections. Educational programming usually takes place during morning and early afternoon hours, which may include academic classes, vocational training, or life skills development sessions. Recreational activities and group programming often occur in the late afternoon and evening hours, providing opportunities for physical activity and social interaction within the secure environment.

The facility's unit-based housing system appears to organize residents into smaller groups, which commonly allows for more individualized attention and programming. Meal times, medical appointments, and counseling sessions are typically scheduled around the core educational and visitation hours. Evening routines generally include dinner, study time or quiet activities, and preparation for lights-out. Throughout the day, residents may participate in various therapeutic programs, religious services if desired, and family communication opportunities that support their rehabilitation and maintain important family connections during their stay at the facility.