Massachusetts
Staying connected with someone in Massachusetts means learning the rules for their specific facility. State prisons, county jails, and federal facilities each handle calls, mail, and visits differently. This page covers phone and video contact, mail guidelines, visiting procedures, and money deposits.
Phone & Messaging
If your loved one is in a federal Bureau of Prisons facility (not Massachusetts DOC or a county jail), the federal system may require separate contact...
Read guideFacility Info
Start with the agency that runs the facility. For county jails, the Sheriff's Office usually publishes the switchboard number, facility addresses, and where...
Read guideFacility rules, security checks, and arriving in person
Expect a real security screening when you arrive. Massachusetts DOC uses passive drug-detecting dogs as part of entrance procedures for anyone entering...
Read guideMail & Photos
Mail rules vary significantly depending on whether your loved one is in a county jail, a Massachusetts state prison, or a federal facility. Always verify...
Read guideSending Money
For Massachusetts state prisons, the state directs people to use Access Corrections and Secure Deposits to send money. You can deposit online, through the...
Read guideVisitation
Federal facility rules can include additional restrictions that differ from Massachusetts DOC. One federal institution's visiting guidance explains that...
Read guideFind an Inmate
Search for a loved one and send messages and photos in minutes.
Common Questions
Q
Can an incarcerated person receive incoming phone calls?
No. Middlesex Sheriff’s Office states that incarcerated individuals cannot receive incoming telephone calls, and calls that do happen are treated as monitored and recorded by many systems. Federal guidance also states that a notice is posted next to inmate telephones advising that calls are monitored.
Q
How do I put someone on an inmate's pre-approved visiting list and apply to visit?
In Massachusetts state prisons, your loved one must add you to their pre-approved visiting list, then you complete the Visitor Application Form and mail it to the institution you intend to visit. After it is processed, Massachusetts says both you and the incarcerated person will be notified of approval or denial.
Q
What ID do I need to bring to a visit?
Massachusetts DOC requires a valid photo ID, and it lists examples such as a state driver’s license, passport, military ID, or an official photo ID card from a state or federal agency. Bring the ID you plan to use every time, and confirm any extra requirements with the facility before you go.
Q
How can I send money to an incarcerated person and what payment methods are available?
For Massachusetts state prisons, the state points people to Access Corrections and Secure Deposits for online, app, or telephone deposits, and it says credit and debit card deposits are available 24/7. Deposits must be in U.S. funds, and the state warns that money orders over $200 and all personal checks are put on a 7-business-day hold. If you need help, Massachusetts publishes a toll-free Access Corrections number: 1-866-345-1884.